Mather, California facts for kids

Mather, California, is a name used for a few different places in the sunny state of California. Most of these places are found in Sacramento County. The name "Mather" comes from Stephen Mather, who was a very important person in setting up America's national parks. He helped protect amazing natural places for everyone to enjoy.

What is Mather, California?

When people talk about Mather, California, they are usually thinking about the area in Sacramento County. This area used to be home to a very important military base. Today, it is a mix of an airport and a community where people live. There is also another, smaller place called Mather in a different part of California.

Mather Air Force Base: A Look Back

Mather Air Force Base was a large military airport. It was first opened in 1918. For many years, it was a key place for the United States Air Force. Pilots from all over came here to train. They learned how to fly different types of planes. The base was very busy during World War II and the Cold War. It helped keep the country safe.

The base was a big part of the local community. Many people worked there. Families lived on the base or nearby. It had its own schools, shops, and services. In 1993, Mather Air Force Base closed down. This happened because the military was changing. Many bases were closing across the country.

Sacramento Mather Airport: From Military to Civilian

After the military base closed, a new plan began. The old runways and buildings were still there. So, the site became a civilian airport. Today, it is known as Sacramento Mather Airport. It is no longer a military base. Instead, it is used for different kinds of flights.

This airport mainly handles cargo planes. These planes carry goods and packages. It also serves general aviation. This means smaller private planes use it. Sacramento Mather Airport helps move goods around. It is an important part of the region's economy.

Mather, Sacramento County: A Community Grows

Right next to the airport is a community also called Mather. This area is a census-designated place, or CDP. A CDP is a place where many people live together. It is like a town but not officially a city. The Mather CDP has homes, businesses, and parks.

Many people who live here work at the airport or in nearby areas. The community has grown over the years. It is a quiet place with a lot of history. It shows how a former military site can become a new home for people.

Mather, Tuolumne County: A Smaller Community

There is another place named Mather in California. This one is in Tuolumne County. It is a much smaller community. It is an unincorporated community. This means it is not part of any city or town. It is usually a small group of homes or buildings. This Mather is located in a more rural area. It is different from the busy Mather in Sacramento County.