Welcome to the Novato Visitor Information Center, located in the charming city of Novato, California—a place rich in history and cultural significance. Originally inhabited by the Coast Miwok people, Novato has a storied past that reflects the broader narrative of California’s evolution.
The area now known as Novato was home to several Coast Miwok villages, including Chokecherry, Puyuku, and Olómpali. These indigenous communities thrived here long before European settlers arrived. In 1839, the Mexican government granted Rancho Novato to Fernando Feliz, a land grant named after a local Miwok leader baptized as Saint Novatus.
Fast forward to the mid-19th century, when early pioneers like Joseph Sweetser and Francis De Long arrived, transforming the landscape with orchards and vineyards. The establishment of a post office in 1856 marked the beginning of modern Novato. However, it wasn’t until 1960 that Novato was officially incorporated as a city, following a period of unplanned growth in the post-World War II era.
One of the most defining moments in Novato’s history came with the construction of a railroad in 1879, linking the city to Sonoma County and San Rafael. This development spurred growth and led to the formation of what is now Old Town Novato. The historic 1908 Novato Flatiron Building stands as a testament to this era of development.
Today, Novato is the largest city by area in Marin County, offering a mix of mountainous terrains, marshlands, and protected open spaces. The city’s evolution from a Miwok village to a bustling community encapsulates the dynamic history of California.
As you explore Novato, imagine the vibrant lives of the Coast Miwok, the aspirations of Mexican settlers, and the industrious spirit of early American pioneers. Each played a vital role in shaping this unique corner of the Golden State.
