Ripperdan, California facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Ripperdan
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 Ripperdan
Location in California
Ripperdan
Location in the United States
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| Country | United States |
| State | California |
| County | Madera County |
| Elevation | 422 ft (75 m) |
Ripperdan is a small, unincorporated community located in Madera County, California, in the United States. It is a quiet place with a unique history. The community sits at an elevation of about 75 meters (246 feet) above sea level.
Contents
What is an Unincorporated Community?
An unincorporated community is a place that does not have its own local government. This means it is not officially a city or a town. Instead, it is governed directly by the county it is in. For Ripperdan, this means Madera County handles services like roads and law enforcement.
How is it Different from a City?
Cities have their own mayors, city councils, and local departments. They make their own laws and manage their own services. Unincorporated communities do not have these local structures. They rely on the larger county government for most things.
A Look at Ripperdan's History
Ripperdan has a rich past, named after some of its first settlers. Over the years, it saw different groups of people contribute to its growth.
How Ripperdan Got Its Name
The community was named after Abraham and Mahala Ripperdan. They were early settlers who helped establish the area. Their family name became linked to this small place in California.
Japanese-American Contributions
Later in its history, Ripperdan became a home for many Japanese-American families. These families played a big role in the community. They owned and operated local businesses, including the grocery store. They also ran a center for farm workers, which was important for the local agriculture. Their hard work helped the community thrive.
The 1967 Fire
In 1967, a large fire caused significant damage to Ripperdan. Much of the community was destroyed by the flames. This event was a major challenge for the residents. Despite the fire, the spirit of Ripperdan continued.
