West Covina is a city located in the eastern San Gabriel Valley region of Los Angeles County, California. The city was founded in 1923 and has grown to become one of the county’s most vibrant and diverse cities. This article explores the history of West Covina and what modern life is like living in this vibrant city.

History

The area that is now West Covina was initially inhabited by the Tongva people, who were known for their skills in farming, fishing, hunting, and trading. Spanish explorers arrived in the region during the 1700s and established several missions, which led to Mexican control in 1821. The mid-1800s saw the arrival of settlers from the Eastern United States, who entered the area with dreams of farming fertile lands.

One notable settler was John Rowland, who arrived in 1841 and eventually purchased more than 16,000 acres of land in the San Gabriel Valley. In 1868, Rowland sold part of his land to a group of investors who founded the City of Covina. However, in 1923, a group of residents in the southern portion of Covina decided to incorporate their city as ‘West Covina.’ Over time, West Covina has grown to become an important commercial and residential center.

Modern Life

In recent years, West Covina has attracted young families and professionals who are looking for affordable housing options outside Los Angeles City. The city has a population of about 107,000 residents, mostly composed of working-class families and Asian Americans.

West Covina is home to several major shopping centers such as Plaza West Covina mall, which features over 200 stores and restaurants. In addition, there are several other smaller shopping centers dotted throughout the city that offer a wide range of dining options.

The city has an excellent performing arts center known as the San Gabriel Valley Music Theatre which hosts Broadway-quality productions on a regular basis. There are also several parks in West Covina that provide residents with places to relax and get some exercise. For example, the Galster Wilderness Park offers excellent hiking trails and picnic spots.

West Covina is blessed with excellent transport networks that make commuting a breeze. The city is situated along the I-10 Freeway and is served by several bus routes as well as a Metrolink commuter train line that connects residents to other surrounding cities.

In conclusion, West Covina is a great place to live for people looking for an affordable mix of urban and suburban living. The city has a rich history, diverse community and is full of opportunities for entertainment, shopping, dining, and outdoor activities. With a stable economy and outstanding amenities, West Covina continues to attract new residents each year.