Santee

Santee, California, is a suburban city located in San Diego County. Its history is rich and varied, with roots stretching back to the early Native American inhabitants, through Spanish colonization, and into its development as a modern city.

Early History

• Native American Period: Before European contact, the area now known as Santee was inhabited by the Kumeyaay people, who lived off the land, utilizing the San Diego River and surrounding resources for sustenance.
• Spanish Era: The Spanish exploration and colonization of California began in the late 18th century, with the establishment of the mission system. Although no missions were directly built in Santee, the area was influenced by the nearby Mission San Diego de Alcalá, founded in 1769.

19th Century

• Mexican Period: After Mexico gained independence from Spain in 1821, the land that includes modern-day Santee became part of Mexico. The Rancho period saw large land grants given to Mexican citizens; however, there were no major ranchos in what is now Santee.
• American Period: California became part of the United States following the Mexican-American War and the Treaty of Guadalupe Hidalgo in 1848. The Gold Rush and subsequent migration brought many settlers to California, but Santee remained largely rural and undeveloped during this time.

20th Century Development

• Early 1900s: The city is named after Milton Santee, a surveyor and engineer who was involved in real estate development in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. His second wife, Jennie Blodgett, named a tract after him, which eventually lent its name to the city.
• Post-World War II Boom: Like many areas in Southern California, Santee experienced significant growth after World War II. The construction of highways and the post-war economic boom led to suburban development.
• Incorporation: Santee was officially incorporated as a city on December 1, 1980. This move was part of a broader trend of suburban incorporation in the San Diego region during this period.

Significant Events and Developments

• Flood Control and Infrastructure: The development of the San Diego River flood control system in the mid-20th century helped to manage seasonal flooding, making more land available for development and contributing to Santee's growth.
• Shopping and Commerce: The opening of the Santee Trolley Square shopping center and the extension of the San Diego Trolley's Green Line to Santee in 2005 marked important developments in local commerce and transportation.

Landmarks and Attractions

• Santee Lakes: A series of seven lakes located within the Santee Lakes Recreation Preserve, providing opportunities for fishing, camping, and picnicking.
• Mission Trails Regional Park: Although not entirely within Santee, this large regional park is adjacent to the city and offers hiking trails, educational programs, and a visitor center.
• Carlton Oaks Country Club: A notable golf course and community landmark within Santee.

Modern Santee

Today, Santee is a vibrant suburban community known for its family-friendly environment, recreational opportunities, and access to the greater San Diego area. The city continues to develop, balancing growth with the preservation of its natural landscapes and community-oriented values.

Overall, Santee’s history reflects the broader trends of Southern California’s growth and development, from its Native American origins to its current status as a thriving suburban city.