Datura, California facts for kids

Datura was once a small community, or "settlement," located in Lassen County, California. It was situated about 0.75 miles (1.2 kilometers) east of a town called Standish. Today, Datura is no longer an active community, which is why it's called a "former settlement."

What Was Datura?

Datura was a place where people lived and worked many years ago. It was not a big city, but rather a small gathering of homes and perhaps a few businesses. Many small settlements like Datura popped up in California during the late 1800s and early 1900s, often because of new opportunities like farming, mining, or logging.

Where Was Datura Located?

Datura was found in Lassen County, which is in the northeastern part of California. This area is known for its beautiful natural landscapes, including forests and mountains. Being close to Standish meant that people in Datura likely had connections to that larger community for supplies or services.

The Story of Datura's Post Office

One of the most important parts of Datura's history is its post office. A post office is a place where people can send and receive mail, and it was a very important service for communities, especially in the past. Datura had its own post office from 1895 to 1899. This shows that enough people lived there to need a dedicated mail service.

Why Did Datura Disappear?

After only four years, in 1899, Datura's post office was moved to Standish. This often happened when a smaller community like Datura started to shrink, or when a nearby town like Standish grew larger and became the main center for the area. When a post office moves or closes, it's often a sign that the settlement itself is becoming less active. Over time, people might have moved away from Datura to find work or better opportunities in bigger towns, leading to the settlement eventually disappearing.