Page, California facts for kids
Page was once a small place in Kern County, California. It was located about 5 miles (8 kilometers) south of a town called Famoso. Page was connected to the railroad, which was very important for communities back then. Today, Page is no longer an active settlement.
What Was Page?
A "settlement" is a place where people live and build homes. It can be a small village or a large city. Page was a settlement that grew up along a railroad line. Many small towns in California started this way. The railroad helped people and goods move around.
Why Do Places Disappear?
Sometimes, settlements like Page become "former settlements." This means people no longer live there. There are many reasons why a place might disappear.
- Changes in transportation: If a new road or railroad is built somewhere else, the old route might lose its importance. This can cause people to move away.
- Running out of resources: Some towns grew because of a specific resource, like a mine. If the resource runs out, the town might shrink or disappear.
- Economic changes: Industries can change, or jobs might move to bigger cities. This can make it hard for small towns to survive.
- Natural events: Sometimes, floods, fires, or other natural disasters can force people to leave.
The Role of Railroads
In the past, railroads were like the internet of their time. They connected places and helped businesses grow. Many small towns, including Page, were founded near railroad tracks. This allowed them to send and receive goods. It also made it easier for people to travel. When a railroad line was no longer used, or a new one was built, towns along the old line could decline.
Kern County's Past
Kern County is in the southern part of California's Central Valley. It has a rich history, especially with farming and oil. Many small settlements popped up in Kern County during the 1800s and early 1900s. Some of these grew into big cities, while others, like Page, faded away. Understanding these former settlements helps us learn about California's history.
