Wister, California facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Wister
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 Wister
Location in California
Wister
Location in the United States
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| Country | United States |
| State | California |
| County | Imperial County |
| Elevation | -197 ft (-60 m) |
Wister is a small, undeveloped community in Imperial County, California. It is not an official town or city. This area is found in the southeastern part of California.
Wister is located near the Southern Pacific Railroad tracks. It is about 4.25 miles (6.8 km) southeast of a place called Frink. A unique fact about Wister is its elevation. It sits 197 feet (60 meters) below sea level. This makes it one of the lowest places in the United States.
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Where is Wister Located?
Wister is in Imperial County, which is in the desert region of Southern California. This county is known for its hot weather and dry landscapes. It is also home to the Salton Sea, a large, shallow, saltwater lake.
Imperial County: A Desert Region
Imperial County is a big area with lots of open space. It shares a border with Arizona and Mexico. The county's economy relies a lot on agriculture. Farmers use water from the Colorado River to grow crops.
The Salton Sea's Influence
Wister is close to the Salton Sea. This lake is the largest in California. It was accidentally created in the early 1900s. The Salton Sea is an important stop for many birds during their migration.
What is an Unincorporated Community?
Wister is an "unincorporated community." This means it does not have its own local government. It is not a city or a town with a mayor or city council. Instead, it is governed directly by the county.
How Unincorporated Areas Work
In an unincorporated area, the county government provides services. These services include things like roads, police, and fire protection. People living in Wister rely on Imperial County for these important services.
Why Some Places Stay Unincorporated
Many small communities remain unincorporated. This can be because they have a small population. It might also be because they do not want to form their own city government.
Wister's Connection to the Railroad
The Southern Pacific Railroad played a big role in developing many areas. Wister's location along these tracks shows its historical connection to train travel.
Railroads and California's Growth
In the past, railroads were vital for moving goods and people. They helped California's economy grow. Places like Wister often grew up around train stops.
