My Favorite Neighborhoods in Santa Rosa, California: A Personal Journey
Growing up in Santa Rosa, California, from 1962 to the present, I've had the pleasure of living in several wonderful neighborhoods. Among these, Rincon Valley and MacDonald Ave stand out in my memory, each with unique characteristics and fond memories from my childhood.
Rincon Valley: Early Childhood
My earliest memories of living in Santa Rosa date back to the late 1960s when I attended Sequoia Elementary School and lived in Rincon Valley. This residential area offered a clean and safe environment with newly built tract homes and a close-knit community. My childhood was filled with fun and adventure as I walked to and from school each day. The 4-mile trek felt like a shorter distance due to the sense of safety and comfort I had while walking alone.
Our home was on a corner lot in a hilly area, and it was there that we enjoyed countless days playing in the surroundings. During summer, the grass would turn golden, providing us with makeshift cardboard sleds to slide down the hill. I remember the thrill of cutting a piece of cardboard, carrying it up to the hill, and sliding down with friends. This was known as 'Cardboard Hill' and was one of our favorite activities. We also enjoyed strolling to Howarth Park, where we would either ride the paddle boats or the ponies, making this a special place for me during that era.
A memorable event occurred during my time in Rincon Valley. In October 1969, I experienced my first earthquake. Despite the initial fear, my mother explained what an earthquake was, alleviating my anxiety and turning a traumatic moment into a learning experience.
MacDonald Ave: Recent Past
Moving to MacDonald Ave, west of Rincon Valley and north of downtown, was a new chapter in my life. This neighborhood, known to me as the JC or high school neighborhood, offered a different but equally delightful experience. It was characterized by nice older homes and tree-lined streets, perfect for walking. I rented a duplex there for several years and enjoyed the peaceful atmosphere and friendly neighbors.
Sebastopol: Transition
By 1972, my family had moved to Sebastopol, where we resided on a 14-acre apple orchard owned by my grandparents. This transition from Rincon Valley to Sebastopol represented a shift in environment and lifestyle. While in Sebastopol, we had the opportunity to frequent the coast, particularly Bodega Bay, for surfing and picnics. This area added another layer of fond memories to my childhood.
Looking back, Rincon Valley and Sebastopol hold a special place in my heart. These areas were the settings for many of my greatest childhood experiences and ultimately shaped my preferences in music and lifestyle.
Exploring the neighborhoods of Santa Rosa is a way to capture a glimpse of its rich history. Whether you're walking through the tree-lined streets of Rincon Valley, admiring the older homes on MacDonald Ave, or enjoying the fresh seaside breezes in Sebastopol, each area tells its own story and is worth a visit.