National Register Listings in
San Mateo County, California

Barron-Latham-Hopkins Gate Lodge Bourn-Roth Estate Brittan, Nathanial, Party House Burlingame Railroad Station Carolands, The Casa de Tableta Church of the Nativity Coxhead, Ernest, House De Sabla, Eugene J., Jr., Teahouse and Tea Garden Dickerman Barn Dielmann, John, House First Congregational Church of Pescadero Folger Estate Stable Historic District Golden Gate National Cemetery Green Gables-Fleischhacker, Mortimer, Country House Green Oaks Ranch House Hofmann, Arthur and Mona, House Holbrook-Palmer Estate, "Elmwood" Hotel St. Matthew Howard-Ralston Eucalyptus Tree Rows Independence Hall Johnston, James, House Kohl Mansion Lathrop House Martin Building Menlo Park Railroad Station Methodist Episcopal Church at Half Moon Bay Methodist Episcopal Church of Pescadero Mills, Robert, Dairy Barn National Bank of San Mateo New Sequoia Theater Building Newhall Estate Offerman, John, House Our Lady of the Wayside Pigeon Point Lighthouse Pilarcitos Creek Bridge Point Montara Light Station POLARIS (research vessel) Portola Valley School Princeton Hotel Ralston, William C., House Redwood City Historic Commercial Buildings Redwood City Woman’s Club San Francisco Bay Discovery Site San Gregorio House San Mateo County Courthouse Sanchez Adobe Park Sequoia Union High School Simmons, William Adam, House South San Francisco Hillside Sign Southern Pacific Depot Southern Pacific Depot Southern Pacific Railroad Bayshore Roundhouse Union Cemetery US Post Main Office-San Mateo Vollers, Amelia, House Watkins, Commodore James, House Whifler, William A., House Woodside Store X-100
During World War II, California was home to several important military installations, including Naval Station Pearl Harbor and the Los Alamos National Laboratory. The state's aircraft manufacturing industry also played a crucial role in the war effort.
San Mateo County, located in Northern California, has a rich history dating back thousands of years. The area was originally inhabited by various indigenous tribes, including the Ohlone people, who lived off the land and coastline. European exploration began in the late 18th century, with Spanish explorers and missionaries venturing into the region.

In the early 19th century, the Mexican government granted large land grants, known as ranchos, to influential individuals. Rancho San Mateo was one of these grants, encompassing much of what is now San Mateo County. The California Gold Rush in the mid-1800s brought an influx of settlers to the region, leading to the development of towns and a growing economy.

The completion of the Central Pacific Railroad in the late 19th century boosted the county's growth, providing easier access for trade and transportation. With the railroad's arrival, cities like Redwood City and San Mateo saw rapid development and urbanization, attracting more people to the area.

In the 20th century, San Mateo County experienced further growth with the rise of technology and industry. Companies like Oracle and Electronic Arts chose to establish their headquarters within the county, contributing to the region's reputation as a tech hub. Today, San Mateo County remains a vibrant and diverse community with a strong economy, beautiful coastline, and a blend of rural and urban areas.

This timeline provides a concise overview of the key events in the history of San Mateo County, California.

  • 1856 - San Mateo County is established as one of the original 27 counties of California.
  • 1860s - The county experiences rapid growth with the development of railroads and the expansion of the local economy.
  • 1892 - The Crystal Springs Dam is completed, providing a reliable water source for the growing population.
  • 1906 - The Great San Francisco Earthquake causes significant damage in San Mateo County.
  • 1931 - The county's first Bay Bridge, connecting San Mateo and Hayward, is opened.
  • 1942 - During World War II, the county becomes a center of defense and military activity.
  • 1967 - The iconic Cow Palace is constructed in Daly City.
  • 1974 - The San Mateo-Hayward Bridge, a major transportation link, is completed.
  • 1990s - The county experiences further economic growth and technological advancements.
  • 2002 - The completion of the Devil's Slide Tunnel provides a safer and more reliable transportation route along the coast.