Get to know Whittier, CA

Whittier is part of the Gateway Cities in Los Angeles County.  The land was once part of Rancho Los Nietos and later owned by Pio Pico at the time of the Mexican-American War.  Following the war, German immigrant Jacob F. Gerkens purchased some of the land, and built the Jonathan Bailey House.  Quakers later bought the land intending to start a community.  These settlers chose the name Whittier after Quaker poet John Greenleaf Whittier.  Citrus ranches thrived in the area, and “Quaker Brand” fruit was shipped all over the country.  Walnut trees were later planted, making Whittier America’s largest walnut grower.  In 1887 to help with development and the export of agriculture, the Southern Pacific Railroad was contracted to build a line and depot to Whittier.  Whittier College was opened in 1891.  Whittier was incorporated as a city in 1898.  Following World War II, the orange groves were subdivided to provide land for housing.  The main employers are the Presbyterian Intercommunity Hospital and Whittier Union High School District.  Popular attractions include Pio Pico State Historic Park, the Hoover Hotel, and the Jonathan Bailey House.  Famous residents have included Jeff Davis and Nomar Garciaparra, who were both born in Whittier.

Quick Facts

Population: 86,688

Median Household Income: $66,457

Median Property Value: $437,200