Welcome to the Artesia Water Tower, a silent sentinel of the rich history of Artesia, California. Established as a village on May 3, 1875, Artesia owes its name to the abundant artesian wells that once dotted the landscape, making it an ideal location for agriculture and farming. This water tower, constructed in 1911, stands as one of the few remaining links to that era.
In the 1920s and 1930s, the fertile lands of Artesia attracted Portuguese and Dutch farmers who transformed the area into one of Southern California’s significant dairy districts. The water tower played a crucial role during this period, providing essential water resources for the thriving agricultural community.
After World War II, Artesia experienced a shift from agriculture to residential development, as the demand for housing grew. This transition marked a new chapter in Artesia’s story, but the water tower remained, watching over the changes.
Notable figures like Pat Nixon, the former First Lady, called Artesia home during her formative years from 1914 to 1931. Although her childhood home is now part of Cerritos, her connection to Artesia adds a layer of historical significance to the area.
As you stand near this tower, imagine the bustling dairy farms and the community that once thrived here. The tower has also appeared in popular culture, featured in films like ‘Freddy’s Dead: The Final Nightmare’ and TV shows such as ‘My Name is Earl,’ adding a touch of Hollywood history to its legacy.
Today, the City of Artesia is working to have the tower declared a historical landmark, not just as a tribute to the past but as a symbol of community identity and pride. It holds 50,000 gallons of water, a testament to its enduring utility.
So, as you pass by, take a moment to appreciate this historical marker, the stories it holds, and the community it continues to serve.
