Morgan Hill is a charming town 10 miles south of San
Jose. Encompassing 12 square miles, it combines the easy living of rural
America with access to major employment, retail and entertainment centers
to the North. A growth management plan enacted in the 1980s ensured that
the city maintains its small town charm unique to Santa Clara County.
Morgan Hill was home to peaceful Costanoan Indians
long before the arrival of Spanish soldiers who came in 1776. The
first English speaking community sprang up around a prosperous estate,
Morgan Hill Ranch in 1845. Incorporated in 1906, the city is located on
the southern end of the Santa Clara Valley, not far from San Jose and Silicon
Valley.
With its tree-lined streets, picturesque vineyards, and
scenic backdrop of rolling hills, residents enjoy a peaceful setting and
relaxed style of living. It's easy to access the high-tech employment
centers in nearby Silicon Valley via an expanded freeway system and Caltrain
commuter station.
Morgan Hill's location in the southern Santa Clara Valley
offers plenty of recreational opportunities. There are four lakes within
five to eight miles that are ideal for fishing, and boating; Henry Coe
State Park a few miles to the East for camping, picnicking or hiking; and
3000 acres of mountain picnicking and activities a short drive away at
Mount Madonna Park. There are also two local golf courses.
Morgan Hill is a 30 to 50 minute drive from the Pacific
Ocean, Monterey Bay and other scenic coastal areas. Events include an annual
Mushroom Mardi Gras, Fourth-of-July parade/festival and downtown Farmers'
Market plus Friday night concerts which are held in the Summer.
Historical information about Morgan Hill (see
additional Historic Landmarks for Santa Clara
County) NO. 259 VASQUEZ TREE AND SITE OF
21-MILE HOUSE - This famous tavern and stage stop was located 21 miles
from San Jose on the road to Monterey. The 21-Mile-House was built in
1852 by William Host beneath a spreading oak that later was called the
Vasquez Tree. The house was sold to William Tennant in November 1852.
Now destroyed, this stopping station was a place where horses could be
changed, fed, and stabled, and where tired and hungry passengers could
refresh themselves.
Location: NW corner of Tennant Ave and Monterey Hwy (Old 101), Morgan
Hill
Great chefs: Welcome to fine wine and gourmet dining
available in the local region and throughout California. Above are several
of nearby Gilroy's commercial chefs. Gilroy is known as the Garlic Capitol
and does, indeed, capitalize on serving dishes which integrate garlic into
them. An annual Garlic Festival attracts people from all over who
are eager to dine on garlic served over 100 different ways. When
visiting the region, enjoy the numerous wineries of the region, as well as San
Jose.
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