| 1. The Valley |
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Stroll
into the Past
Santa Clara celebrated its 150th anniversary in 2002. Although
incorporated on July 5, 1852, Santa Clara has a much longer
history. The seven display stations provide an introduction
to the unique story of Santa Clara.
Valley
& Bay Environment
Santa Clara Valley has always been one of the most naturally
beautiful regions of the world. Its mild climate and fertile
soil created an area rich in the resources needed to sustain
life. Once, grasslands and oak groves dotted the valley floor
and were home to deer, bear, elk, and antelope. Many small streams,
edged by willows and sycamores, wound their way to the San Francisco
Bay filled with fish and waterfowl.
Native
American Settlement
The first human inhabitants arrived in Santa Clara Valley
about 10,000 years ago. By 800-1100 A.D. these Native Americans
evolved into the group of people we call the Ohlone. They lived
in tribal communities comprised of one or more villages. Each
village consisted of 50 to 100 people living in family houses
with the chief living in the largest. The Santa Clara area was
a tribal district that contained three large villages. |
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| Ohlone Life |
| Ohlone homes were made of branches
covered with a thatch of tule reeds. The Ohlone people were
hunters and gatherers who used bows, snares and traps for hunting
and reed boats for fishing. Acorns from abundant oak trees provided
their staple food. The acorns and seeds they gathered were stored
and cooked in baskets. They traded with other California tribal
groups for stone tools and abalone shells. |
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