Rancho Muscupiabe facts for kids
Rancho Muscupiabe was a very large piece of land, about 30,145-acre (121.99 km2), in what is now San Bernardino County, California. It was given as a Mexican land grant to a man named Michael C. White on April 29, 1843. The name "Muscupiabe" comes from the Serrano word muscupiabit, which means "place of little pines." This rancho was located right next to Cajon Pass, an important route through the mountains.
History of Rancho Muscupiabe
In 1843, Michael White, also known by his Spanish name Miguel Blanco, received the rights to Rancho Muscupiabe. This land was originally home to a village of the Serrano Indians. Michael White was married to the daughter of Eulalia Perez, who worked at the San Gabriel Mission. This mission was about 45 miles to the west.
White was encouraged to set up his rancho on a path often used by groups of nomadic people. These groups sometimes raided the area. To protect his property, White built a strong, fortified home. This home overlooked both the important Cajon Pass and the Mojave Trail. However, White only stayed for nine months. He left because his cattle were being stolen.
Many years later, on June 22, 1872, Michael White's ownership of the land was officially confirmed. This was done by the Public Land Commission.
