Uniquely is a Modesto Bee series that covers the moments, landmarks and personalities that define what makes living in the Central Valley so special.
If you were the first to settle in an area, what would you call it? Would you try to establish a legacy with your family name or perhaps pick something to puzzle future historians? From Spanish origins to city founders, geographical features and even a typo, there have been many inspirations behind the naming of cities and towns around Stanislaus County.
Likely the most well-known naming is that of Modesto. According to Modesto Irrigation District’s book “The Greening of Paradise Valley,” Modesto was founded in 1870 when the Central Pacific Railroad established its first station in the county…