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The history of Simi Valley
Simi Valley's historic ranch sites, neighborhood centers and trailheads shape a local scene beyond the freeway.
People who shaped Simi Valley
These milestones are an introduction, not a complete local history. Follow the linked city and museum sources to explore the people and places behind them.Read the local historical account.
Watch the city’s history
FROM THE ARCHIVES
The history of Simi Valley, California
A local history film shared by World History Official tv.
Watch on YouTube ↗Famous people born in Simi Valley
See all 34 famous people
- 1795
Rancho Simí
The Spanish government granted the large Rancho Simí to Santiago Pico.
Simi Valley city reference ↗ - 1903
Santa Susana depot
The Santa Susana train depot opened as railroad construction reached the valley.
Simi Valley city reference ↗ - 1957
Postwar neighborhoods
The valley's first major tract-housing developments began a period of rapid residential growth.
Simi Valley city reference ↗ - 1969
City incorporation
Residents approved incorporation, uniting Simi, Community Center, and Santa Susana in one city.
Simi Valley city reference ↗ - 1994
Northridge earthquake
The Northridge earthquake caused significant damage in parts of Simi Valley.
Simi Valley city reference ↗
See the history for yourself.
Walk Strathearn Historical Park, six and a half acres preserving many of Simi Valley’s earliest buildings. Check current opening hours before visiting the Strathearn Historical Park and Museum.
For deeper research, the Simi Valley library resources is a starting point for archival material and research help. Historic photographs have their own permissions; we link to the collection instead of treating every old image as free to reuse.
Selected milestones researched September 13, 2026. This is an introduction, not a complete account of the city’s history.