Howard, Yolo County, California facts for kids
Howard was once a small community located in Yolo County, California. It is no longer a populated place today, which is why it's called a "former settlement." Howard was situated about 3 miles (or 4.8 kilometers) east-northeast of another place called Peart. It was found at the very end of a special railroad line, often called a "spur line," which is a short track branching off a main railway.
What is a Former Settlement?
A former settlement is a place where people used to live, but for various reasons, it is no longer inhabited. These places might have been small towns, villages, or even just a few buildings. Over time, people might move away, resources might run out, or new transportation routes could make the old ones less important. When this happens, a settlement can become a "ghost town" or simply disappear from maps as a populated area.
Why Settlements Change
Many things can cause a settlement to become a former settlement. Sometimes, the main industry that supported the community, like mining or farming, might decline. For example, if a mine closed, people would leave to find work elsewhere. Changes in transportation, like new roads or railways bypassing a town, could also lead to its decline. Natural events, such as floods or droughts, can also make an area unlivable.
Howard's Location in Yolo County
Howard was located in Yolo County, which is in the central part of California. This county is known for its rich agricultural land, especially for growing crops like tomatoes, almonds, and walnuts. The presence of a railroad spur line suggests that Howard might have been connected to farming or other industries that needed to transport goods by train. Many small communities in California grew up around these railway lines, which were vital for moving products and people in the past.
