Middletown, California facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Middletown
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Middletown in September 2023
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Location within Lake County and the State of California
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| Country | United States |
| State | California |
| County | Lake |
| Area | |
| • Total | 1.844 sq mi (4.776 km2) |
| • Land | 1.844 sq mi (4.776 km2) |
| • Water | 0 sq mi (0 km2) 0% |
| Elevation | 1,099 ft (335 m) |
| Population
(2010)
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| • Total | 1,323 |
| • Density | 717.5/sq mi (277.01/km2) |
| Time zone | UTC-8 (Pacific (PST)) |
| • Summer (DST) | UTC-7 (PDT) |
| ZIP code |
95461
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| Area code | 707 |
| FIPS code | 06-47332 |
| GNIS feature IDs | 228626 |
Middletown is a small community in Lake County, California, United States. It's called a census-designated place (CDP), which means it's a special area used for gathering population information.
In 2020, about 725 people lived there. The town got its name because it's about halfway between two other towns, Lower Lake and Calistoga. That's about 17 miles (27 kilometers) away! Sadly, a big fire called the Valley Fire caused a lot of damage to Middletown in 2015.
Contents
History of Middletown
Long ago, Middletown was known as Middle Station. It was a stopping point for stagecoaches traveling over Mt. St. Helena. These coaches carried people and goods between Calistoga and Lower Lake.
The first house in Middletown was built in 1870. The town officially started in 1871. Its post office opened that same year, first named Middleton, then changed to Middletown in 1875.
Early Industries and Resorts
In the late 1800s, Middletown was busy with quicksilver (also known as mercury) mining. This metal was very important back then. Later, in the early 1900s, people started raising cattle and sheep. They also grew some pears and walnuts.
The area became popular for vacations because of its natural hot springs. Many resorts opened, attracting visitors from the Bay Area until the 1950s. Most of these resorts closed in the 1960s.
Modern Growth and Challenges
In the 1970s and 1980s, new jobs came to Middletown. Power plants were built in the nearby mountains to use geothermal energy. This is energy from the heat inside the Earth.
As housing became more expensive in the Bay Area, many people moved to Middletown and nearby Hidden Valley Lake. They were looking for more affordable homes. Today, people also visit nearby attractions like Harbin Hot Springs and the Twin Pine Casino.
2015 Valley Fire Impact
On September 12, 2015, a fast-moving wildfire called the Valley Fire hit Middletown hard. About half of the town was destroyed, including many buildings and an apartment complex. It was a very difficult time for the community.
2019 Kincade Fire Threat
Another fire, the 2019 Kincade Fire, started in a nearby county. This fire caused people in Lake County, including Middletown, to leave their homes for safety.
Geography and Climate
Middletown is located about 1,099 feet (335 meters) above sea level. The area covers about 1.8 square miles (4.7 square kilometers), and it's all land.
Middletown's Climate
Middletown has a "warm-summer Mediterranean climate." This means it has hot, dry summers. The average summer temperatures can be above 97°F (36°C). Winters are usually mild and wet.
Population and People
| Historical population | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Census | Pop. | %± | |
| 2000 | 1,020 | — | |
| 2010 | 1,323 | 29.7% | |
| 2020 | 1,114 | −15.8% | |
| US Census U.S Census 1880-1980, | |||
Middletown's population has changed over the years. In 2000, there were 1,020 people. By 2010, the population grew to 1,323. In 2020, it was 1,114.
The community is made up of people from many different backgrounds. Here's a look at the racial and ethnic makeup:
| Racial and ethnic composition | 2000 | 2010 | 2020 |
|---|---|---|---|
| White (non-Hispanic) | 70.98% | 62.51% | 59.16% |
| Hispanic or Latino (of any race) | 22.84% | 31.22% | 34.74% |
| Two or more races (non-Hispanic) | 2.45% | 3.1% | 4.04% |
| Asian (non-Hispanic) | 1.67% | 1.28% | 0.81% |
| Native American (non-Hispanic) | 1.18% | 1.44% | 0.63% |
| Other (non-Hispanic) | 0.0% | 0.08% | 0.36% |
| Black or African American (non-Hispanic) | 0.39% | 0.38% | 0.18% |
| Pacific Islander (non-Hispanic) | 0.49% | 0.0% | 0.09% |
Education in Middletown
The Middletown Unified School District serves students in Middletown and Hidden Valley Lake. Both Middletown High School and Middletown Middle School are on the same campus. There is also a Christian elementary school in the area called Middletown Adventist School.
Things to Do in Middletown
Middletown has a few interesting places to visit:
- Harbin Hot Springs: This is a retreat center with natural spring pools. It offers classes and activities. The hot springs were badly damaged by the 2015 wildfires but have been rebuilt.
- Middletown Rancheria: Just south of town is an Indian reservation. It is home to people from the Pomo, Lake Miwok, Wappo, and Wintu tribes. The rancheria has a tribal casino and a gas station known for its good prices.
See also
In Spanish: Middletown (California) para niños
