San Benancio, California facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
San Benancio
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 San Benancio
Location in California
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| Country | United States |
| State | California |
| County | Monterey County |
| Elevation | 226 ft (69 m) |
San Benancio is a small, quiet community in Monterey County, California. It is an unincorporated community, meaning it's not an official city but a place where people live and businesses are located. It sits in a beautiful area called San Benancio Canyon, known for its nature and history.
Contents
A Look Back: San Benancio's Story
How San Benancio Got Its Name
The name "San Benancio" comes from a small canyon called San Benancio Gulch. This canyon makes up most of the area. On an old map from 1834, the region was called "Canada de San Benancio." This Spanish name probably refers to one of four Christian saints named Venantius.
San Benancio in Famous Books
Did you know San Benancio inspired a famous book? The author John Steinbeck used San Benancio as the idea for "Las Pasturas del Cielo," a made-up place in his book Pastures of Heaven. Steinbeck grew up in nearby Salinas and spent time in San Benancio when he was young. He described the area perfectly in his book:
... he saw a long valley floored with green pasturage on which a herd of deer browsed. Perfect live oaks in the meadow of the lovely place, and the hills hugged it jealously against the fog and wind.
Exploring San Benancio: Nature and Location
Where is San Benancio?
San Benancio doesn't have official borders. When people say "San Benancio," they usually mean homes and businesses along San Benancio Road. This includes areas like Ambler Park and Harper Canyon. The road itself is found along the Monterey-Salinas highway (California State Route 68). It's about halfway between the cities of Salinas and Monterey.
The Canyon's Natural Beauty
The walls of San Benancio Canyon rise about 400 feet high. Next to the canyon runs Toro Creek, a small stream that flows into the Salinas River. The canyon is home to many California Live Oak Trees. You can also find different kinds of wild sage brush and grass here.
Wildlife in the Canyon
San Benancio Canyon is full of amazing wildlife! You might spot deer grazing, hawks soaring overhead, or even rare condors. There are also wild pigs, California quail, and a large number of wild turkeys roaming around.
Learning and Fun in San Benancio
Schools in the Area
San Benancio is part of the Washington Union School District. San Benancio Middle School is located right in the community. It serves over 300 students in 6th, 7th, and 8th grades. In 2007, the "Great Schools" website gave the school a high rating of 9 out of 10!
Recreation and Sports
For fun and exercise, San Benancio has Titus Park. This is a private club with a swimming pool and tennis courts. It's located along San Benancio Road. The pool is open every day from June to September, with hours depending on the weather.
