| Penn Valley History
The Maidu Indians were the first to reside in what is now known as Penn Valley. They migrated from the Sacramento Valley in 1833. Four camps settled in the area at sites now called Bridgeport, Lake Wildwood, Mooney Flat and Indian Springs.
In 1848, discovery of gold in California brought the first white settlers to Penn Valley which is believed to be the earliest settlement in Nevada County. They traded bows, arrows and rifles to the Indians in exchange for animal skins.
Many feel that Penn Valley is named for a Madame Penn who had a 320 acre homestead at the intersection of Squirrel and Grub Creeks. A gold miner turned rancher named James Ennor purchased the property from her in October of 1852. Eventually, the 320 acres grew to 700 and became a good part of what is now Penn Valley.
Early settlement of the area occurred in part due to its location on a freight wagon route established between mining regions to the east and Sacramento. Penn Valley was an important stop with livery and blacksmithing services available.
Growth of the area also came about when discouraged miners gave up their gold pans for plows, and the valley became an agricultural community. Known as the "Pantry of the Northern Mines," the area had some of the finest land in the state and supplied fresh fruit, vegetables and meat to freight wagons heading to mines as far away as Nevada.
Penn Valley also became home to a thriving dairy industry which took off in the late 1800s with completion of a creamery that became one of the best known in the state. Today, all that remains of this important industry is the rebuilt Butter Maker's Cottage in Western Gateway Park.
Penn Valley remains a community of peaceful natural beauty with a tranquil lifestyle. Yet, it continues to provide opportunities as evidenced by new commercial ventures and residential growth.
The area still maintains a "small town" atmosphere which has attracted both retirees and families. Residents may see horses on riding trails, llamas peering over fences, deer and wild turkeys. They also have access to businesses, schools, churches and amenities that make life complete. Today, about 12,000 call the area home.
In recent years, Penn Valley has seen completion of a new post office, fire station, performing arts pavilion, a small sub-division featuring affordable homes and a 42-unit affordable apartment complex. Two recently completed projects include a professional office building and complex for light industry.
This year residential opportunities will expand as a group of high-end homes are completed. Additional residential, office and retail projects are in the planning stage.
Serving as a hub for community non-profits and service organizations is the Penn Valley Chamber of Commerce, an organization with 200 members. Currently options are being explored for a community center.
Located six miles from Grass Valley, Penn Valley has been able to meld business, family, agriculture and a healthy lifestyle. Visitors to the area can enjoy fall colors, country roads, the 88 acre Western Gateway Park, and historic Bridgeport and Englebright Lake which are both within an easy drive.
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