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Watsonville, California

Located in Santa Cruz County, California, Watsonville was established in 1852. Major strawberry producing area — 'Strawberry Capital.'. The 1989 Loma Prieta earthquake devastated Watsonville's downtown.
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Founded 1852 | Population 54,000 | Peak 54,000 (2024) | County Santa Cruz County

Top 10 Most Important Events for Watsonville, California

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1852Founded: Pajaro Valley.
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1942Military Presence: Military installations became a major part of Watsonville's identity and economy.
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1989Loma Prieta: Earthquake devastates downtown.
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1989Higher Education: Educational institutions helped define Watsonville's character and economy.
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2010Modern Era: Watsonville continued to develop as part of the region, with new infrastructure and community amenities.
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Latest News in Watsonville

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Complete Historical Timeline

1852 Culture
Founded
1942 Government
Military Presence
1989 Disaster
Loma Prieta
1989 Culture
Higher Education
2010 Culture
Modern Era

Did You Know?

1
Major strawberry producing area — 'Strawberry Capital.'.
2
The 1989 Loma Prieta earthquake devastated Watsonville's downtown.
3
Pajaro Valley agricultural community.
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Watsonville is located in Santa Cruz County, California.
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Watsonville was founded in 1852.
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