History

Hispanics lived in California from the mid-1700s, first under the Spanish crown and then under Mexico (1821 to 1848). During the mid-1800s, Portuguese and Mexicans came to Vallejo as immigrants searching for a better life, equality, and economic opportunities. In the city of Vallejo was named in honor of Gen. Mariano Vallejo, a Spanish descent.

Originally part of Rancho Suscol, Mexican land granted to Gen. Mariano Guadalupe Vallejo, the city of Vallejo, California, has been home to a Hispanic and Latino community since its establishment in the mid-19th century. The son of General Vallejo was the first medical doctor in Vallejo, and Frank Antonio Blanco was the city’s first public school probation officer. His son Edwin J. Blanco was a public elected official. During World War II, the bracero program brought an influx of Mexican immigrants, and the city of Vallejo saw a resurgence in Spanish-speaking community members. Over the next few decades, community organizations were created, and the number of Hispanic- and Latino-owned businesses increased. In the last decades of the 20th century, the community grew to over 26 percent of the city’s population. Today, Hispanics and Latinos are business owners, professionals, job creators, advocates, and a strong economic power in the city.

General Mariano Guadalupe Vallejo (1807–1890)

USS Mariano G. Vallejo (SSBN-658), a ballistic missile submarine, was named for General Mariano Guadalupe Vallejo.

David Glasgow Farragut -son of a Spanish immigrant,- (July 5, 1801 – August 14, 1870) was a flag officer of the United States Navy during the American Civil War. He was the first rear admiral, vice admiral, and admiral in the United States Navy. He is remembered in popular culture for his order at the Battle of Mobile Bay, usually paraphrased: "Damn the torpedoes, full speed ahead!" by U.S. Navy tradition. On September 16, 1854, Commander Farragut arrived to oversee the building of the Mare Island Navy Yard at Vallejo, California, which became the primary port for ship repairs on the West Coast.

For more about the Latino community