Point Cabrillo facts for kids
Point Cabrillo is a rocky piece of land, called a headland, that sticks out into the Pacific Ocean. It is made of sandstone. You can find it on the coast of Mendocino County, California. It sits between the towns of Mendocino, California and Fort Bragg, California.
Point Cabrillo is famous for its historic lighthouse. Geographically, it is located north of Point Arena and south of Cape Mendocino.
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How Point Cabrillo Got Its Name
Point Cabrillo was named in 1870. The United States Geological Survey gave it this name. It was named after a Portuguese explorer named João Rodrigues Cabrilho. He explored the California coast for Spain.
However, Cabrillo's journey did not reach this far north. Even so, the name stuck. Since Spain controlled California early on, the Spanish version of his name is used today.
A Shipwreck and the Discovery of Redwoods
An important event happened near Point Cabrillo in 1850. A trading ship called the Frolic crashed on a reef. This reef was just north of Point Cabrillo.
People investigated the shipwreck. During this investigation, they made a big discovery. They found the huge coast redwood forests in the Mendocino area. This discovery was very important. It started the timber trade in the region. This trade became a major part of the local economy for many years.
Point Cabrillo Light Station State Historic Park
Today, Point Cabrillo is part of a special place. It is entirely within the Point Cabrillo Light Station State Historic Park. This park helps protect the natural beauty and history of the area. Visitors can explore the headland and learn about its past.
Images for kids
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Protecting the coast at Point Cabrillo Light Station
