Cahto, California facts for kids
Cahto was once a small settlement located in Mendocino County, California. It was about 3 miles (5 kilometers) southwest of a town called Laytonville.
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What Was Cahto?
Cahto was a busy little place for a while, but now it's a former settlement, meaning it no longer exists as a town. It was founded in the mid-1800s and played a role in the early history of Mendocino County.
How Cahto Started
The settlement of Cahto was started in 1856 by two men named John P. Simpson and Robert White. They were pioneers who helped build up the area.
Buildings in Cahto
As the town grew, more buildings were added:
- In 1861, a hotel was built, offering a place for travelers to stay.
- A store opened in 1865, where people could buy supplies.
- A post office operated in Cahto from 1863 until 1901, allowing people to send and receive mail.
The Odd Fellows Lodge
Cahto also had a local chapter of a group called the Independent Order of Odd Fellows. This was a friendly society that helped its members and the community. Their meeting place, called Cahto Lodge No. 206, was built in 1872. This two-story hall was used for their meetings and also served as a public hall for town events.
The Name "Cahto"
The name "Cahto" has a special meaning. It comes from the language of the local Pomo people, who are Native Americans from this region. In their language, "Cahto" means "lake."
