50 German families, mostly grape farmers and vintners, founded Anaheim in 1857. It was given the name Anaheim as a blend of Ana , which related to the nearby Santa Ana River, and heim , an Upper German word meaning home . They purchased 1165 acres of coastal plain for $2 an acre.
Because of the moderate climate, wine production became the foundation for the area's economy. This industry collapsed in the 1880's because of insects, but was replaced with other crops such as walnuts, lemons, and oranges.
Anaheim eventually developed into an industrial center, producing electronics, aircraft parts, and canned fruit.
A major event in Anaheim's history was in the mid-1950's, when Walt Disney chose Anaheim as the site for the construction of his Disneyland amusement park. Only seven weeks after opening on July 17, 1955, the one-millionth guest entered Disneyland. The development of Anaheim as a recreational destination was aided further by the opening of the Anaheim Stadium and the Anaheim Convention Center.
Anaheim has continued to thrive and develop into a strong recreational, industrial, and entertainment community.
Anaheim Chamber
City-Data
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