Clayton Relocation Guide

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1 Clayton Relocation Guide Walnut Creek Branch 1331 N. California Blvd., #100 Walnut Creek, CA Phone: Fax:

2 The Placer Title Company Story Placer Title Company was founded by Leo French in Leo s vision was to create a work environment that emphasized people. His dream: To bring together a group of people who really care about each other and about their customers. Leo believed that if this was accomplished, success would follow. It did. Beginning with only two offices one in Roseville, California and the other in Auburn, California Placer Title Company has grown throughout Northern California and beyond. At Placer Title Company, our people are dedicated to the industry and are committed to giving exceptional service. Our staff s longevity, combined with the company s commitment to retaining long-term client relationships, has been the key to our success and is what makes us who we are today. Backed by the strength of Mother Lode Holding Company, we have been able to diversify our business by creating a National Lender Service Division PTC/National Closing Solutions, and a Reverse Mortgage Division Premier Revserse Closings. Furthermore, we have expanded our title and escrow services by adding North Idaho Title, Montana Title and Escrow, and Wyoming Title and Escrow to our family of companies. By expanding our services, we can better serve our clients and offer solutions to all of their title and escrow needs. At Placer Title Company, we care about each other and our clients, and continually demonstrate why we are a proven leader in the title and escrow industry. Visit us on the web at to locate one of our nearly 50 Northern and Central California locations. 2

Welcome to Clayton Clayton s setting among the foothills of majestic Mt. Diablo is unique with scenic views, moderate temperatures and heritage oak trees protected by the surrounding buffers of Mt.

3 Welcome to Clayton Clayton s setting among the foothills of majestic Mt. Diablo is unique with scenic views, moderate temperatures and heritage oak trees protected by the surrounding buffers of Mt. Diablo and Black Diamond Regional Parks. On the fringe of San Francisco, Clayton enjoys easy access to great entertainment, higher education and employment, yet is far enough from the hustle and bustle that one hears mooing of cows instead of freeways, breathes fresh air and experiences one of the lowest rates of crimes in the world. Claytonites take great pride in their mining town heritage complete with ranching, farming and horses. From the area s earliest days of Indians, Spanish explorers, and wandering trappers, the 1850s discovery of coal and copper in surrounding hills caused an influx of miners and settlers. Among them was the town s founder Joel Clayton from England who, in 1857, plotted the town s streets, built several of its first buildings, and helped establish what is one of the State s oldest Post Offices. Soon Clayton had a bustling downtown, serving the nearby mining communities of Nortonville and Sommersville, and its rolling hills became covered with orchards, vineyards and livestock. In the late 1800s as mines died out, the town began to shrink. Still today, many buildings, found arrowheads and remnants of the mines remind residents of days long ago. Clayton remained virtually unchanged until rediscovered by the suburban pioneers of the 1950s. In 1964, the town s citizens incorporated. Gradually, quality residential subdivisions, interesting commercial buildings, and more publicly owned open space have joined the ranches and ranchettes that make Clayton uniquely country, and such a great place to live and raise a family. 1

4 Incorporation of Clayton Local residents first saw the need to incorporate in 1961 when some property owners wanted to annex to nearby Concord. We knew if that happened, it would split Clayton in half and we d never have the opportunity to become a city, said longtime Clayton resident, Eldora Hoyer. A few people banded together and the incorporation effort appeared as though it would be successful. A feasibility study was conducted and city hood seemed like it was just around the corner. However, at the last minute a couple of large landowners pulled out, making incorporation impossible. Things were somewhat quiet for the next couple of years, but in 1963 the movement to become a city once again gained momentum. There was a lot of concern about the quality of development that was coming our direction. We didn t really care for the strip businesses along the roads. Eldora said. Some other incorporations pioneers were Randall (Chubby) Humble, M.F. Ohman, Lawrence (Joe) Wallace and Henry White. While some property owners had filed papers for annexation with Concord in hopes of getting sewer and water to develop their land, those on the incorporation committee filed a petition with the county to incorporate as the city Clayton. Eldora Hoyer was given the honor of filing the papers seeking incorporation. That was the only way we could delay the annexation process and give people time to think about incorporating, Mrs. Hoyer said. At the same time, the Local Agency Formation Commission (LAFCO) was formed. The agency still exists today and makes the final decisions regarding annexation proposals in Contra Costa County. We had a lot of faith that everything was going to work out. The 60 s were a big period of growth in the County but things happened a lot slower in Clayton and I m glad they did. The incorporation proposal was put before a record-setting percentage of voters who overwhelmingly favored city hood, and the first five-member council was elected from a group of eleven candidates. 2

5 Bob Hoyer was selected to serve as the first Mayor of the City of Clayton. Things were a lot different then, than they are now, he said. No one was real political in those days, so no one was really trying to secure position. Looking back it s special to serve as the first Mayor, but when you are making history you don t realize it at the time Henry Wagner was selected to serve as Vice-Mayor and Alvin Liming, David Cook and George Abbott rounded out Clayton s first City Council. The only staff the Council had consisted of, a part time City Clerk and a part time City Attorney. The Council met at the historic Endeavor Hall. Our Council meetings were very informal and open to anyone. We didn t have a lot of rules and everyone had ample time to voice their opinions. We didn t try to stifle the public or our critics. Mayor Hoyer said. He went on to say that the most he spent on an election campaign in sixteen years was thirty-five dollars. A year after incorporation the City of Clayton was recognized by the Contra Costa County Board of Supervisors for its superb efforts. In 1966, just two years after incorporation, Clayton hosted the Mayor s Conference. For additional information, please visit the Clayton Historical Society at Incorporation Facts: Election Day: March 3, 1964 Population: Approximately 600 Registered voters in Clayton: 364 Citizens who voted in the election: 312 (85.7% of eligible voters voted) 251 voted for incorporation, 61 voted against incorporation Clayton became the 13th City in Contra Costa County 3

Other Historical Facts about Clayton The prospect for coal was the primary reason for the founding of Clayton. W.K. Taylor surveyed the site in 1858.

In 1858 George Chapman erected a hotel adjoining, and in 1858, James Curry opened a livery stable.

6 Other Historical Facts about Clayton The prospect for coal was the primary reason for the founding of Clayton. W.K. Taylor surveyed the site in The first house erected on the present site of the town was built in 1857 by Romero Mauvais, who erected a building and opened a tavern. This later became the site of the Clayton Hotel. In 1858 George Chapman erected a hotel adjoining, and in 1858, James Curry opened a livery stable. In 1858 Charles Rhine moved his business from a point two miles distant, where he had started a store in 1856, into the town. A. Senderman opened a general merchandise store next to the Chapman Hotel building the same year. In 1857 a religious congregation was organized by a Presbyterian preacher in the home of Howard Nichols: this organization was later merged with a Congregational Church, organized on February 1, 1863 by Rev. J.J. Powell. On November 10, 1867 a church was dedicated by Rev. James W. Brian. On February 28, 1864 the town was nearly wiped out by a disastrous fire. Endeavor Hall after restoration in 2001 Endeavor Hall & Jail,

Some of the early settlers of Clayton and the vicinity were: Captain Howard Nichols, J.F. Allen, William Taynton, Milton Shepard, D. Fisher, Adolph Zophy, G.O.

7 Some of the early settlers of Clayton and the vicinity were: Captain Howard Nichols, J.F. Allen, William Taynton, Milton Shepard, D. Fisher, Adolph Zophy, G.O. Chapman, Henry Polly, Isaac Mitchell, and C. Ryan, John Collins, The Duncans, The Doners, The Stanahans, The Kirkwoods, The Myricks and The Coweles. C.E. Westmore (who was the first justice of the peace) and William Morris also filled the position in Mail was delivered on horseback to the Coal Mine Area by Frank Leslie Doug Mitchell of Clayton and in the 1890s before daily stages linking Martinez, De Martini Winery restored as the Clayton City Hall & Police Department 2000 Pacheco, Concord, Clayton, Antioch and the Mines began operating from the Atchinson Ranch on Clayton Road in Jack and George Atchinson, brothers, had horse drawn wagon stages built with large wheels to navigate bad roads in the rainy seasons. They carried passengers, money and freight, as well as the regular mail. Drivers were armed with.45 colt revolvers, required by the U.S. Mail contract regulations. Coal production declined near the end of the century when less expensive and higher quality coal became available from other sources, and agriculture (cattle and dairy ranching, hay and grain production, orchard, vineyard and farm produce) became the valley s economic mainstay. The highest student enrollment ever recorded in the two-room Mt. Diablo School was 111 in 1890, before coal mining ended and as agriculture flourished. Grain was shipped from Pacheco to markets in San Francisco and Sacramento. In the early 1900s cattle were driven through the hills to the river to be loaded on boats for shipment. Clayton s vineyards produced wines that won state, national and international awards for half a century, until Phylloxera infected the grape vines and sale of alcoholic beverages was prohibited in The amond and walnut orchard replaced the vineyards. Land in the Upper Clayton Valley remained general agricultural until the 1940s. Information compiled from and 5

Clayton s Quality of Life People often talk about the quality of life where they live or would like to live. In fact, each year, articles and books rank the various cities.

8 Clayton s Quality of Life People often talk about the quality of life where they live or would like to live. In fact, each year, articles and books rank the various cities. In any area, it s not just one aspect that makes it livable, such as the mountains of Lake Tahoe, the cosmopolitan life of New York City, or the affordability of Mexican beach areas, but a composite of aspects. Clayton is a family community with people who appreciate the community s history and tradition. There are businesses, friends and neighbors who know each other, who care about the kids and the community, and who donate countless hours in service to youth scouting, 4-H, athletics, churches, the Historical Society, or to the many CBCA Businesses and Civic projects. Housing in Clayton is approximately 90% owner-occupied. Housing is very affordable compared to other Bay Area communities of similar high income and education. Housing includes quality townhomes and condominiums, established ranch home neighborhoods, high-end executive subdivisions, custom home sites and horse set ups. The over 11,000 current population will build out to 13,000 in the next few years, guaranteeing that Clayton will always stay small enough to retain its invaluable small town feel and friendliness. Clayton s historic Town Center with its American flagpole on Main Street adds to that feel which is unique to this city. The 1850 s architecture in accordance with the adopted Specific Plan will give downtown more shops, restaurants and services, yet guarantee that the quaint and unique nature of Clayton s downtown will never be lost to a shopping center, mall strip, or modernisms. 6

9 Clayton s crimes and crime rate are the lowest of any city in Contra Costa County, and Clayton aims to keep it that way. Clayton has an excellent police force, and a community policing policy of being friendly in correcting minor problems, but very strict against any who would attempt a crime. Clayton s schools are top-notch, with elementary and middle schools drawing their students together within Clayton and Clayton Charter Valley High ranking among the best in the area. Diablo Valley College, Cal State University, East Bay, Concord Campus, and JFK University are nearby, and it is an easy commute to St. Mary s College, U.C. Berkeley, and other fine institutions of higher learning. Clayton s climate, scenery and setting are fantastic. Clayton has the majestic Mt. Diablo, protected open space of rolling hills, creeks and oaks, the Urban Limit Line, the Black Diamond Mines Park, the Marsh Creek Specific Plan, and strict laws in place to ensure the beauty and rural feel of the area forever. With the average 600 elevation, Clayton is above the smog and occasional fog. The climate almost always seems like that of a resort. Clayton enjoys a full six months of tantalizing barbeque smells mixed with happy sounds of splashes from the countless swimming pools and spas. While surrounded by all of this beauty, tranquility, and family living, with the mooing of cows rather than the roar of freeways, Clayton is distant enough from big cities, yet close enough to hold job opportunities and enjoy cosmopolitan benefits. At Clayton s doorstep is the Concord Pavilion, with top entertainment. Within Clayton, there is a renowned championship golf course, fantastic hiking, biking and horse trails, a community park complex for baseball, soccer and picnicking, The Ipsen Bocce Park, constant school activities, a championship swim team, a library, and active groups to suit every interest for example: AAUW, Veterans of Foreign Wars, Clayton Women s Club, and even gardening societies. And the festivities of the Fourth of July Parade, the Round-up Barbecue, Art and Wine Festival, Memorial Day Ceremony, Oktoberfest and decorating for Christmas are second to none and remind us of what America and living in Clayton are all about. Whether it s livability, affordability, amenities, lack of pollution, absence of crime, schools, scenery, or the quality of its people, Clayton has it all and has pledged to retain it. 7

10 Helpful Phone Numbers Emergency Dial 911 Police Department (925) Fire Department (925) Comcast (800) Garbage (925) Pacific Gas & Electric (800) AT&T Telephone (800) Water (925) City of Clayton (925) Post Office (925) Library (925) Dept. of Motor Vehicles (800) BART Rapid Transit (925) Clayton Business & Community Association (925) Community Development (925)

11 Hospitals John Muir Medical Center 1601 Ygnacio Valley Road Walnut Creek, CA (925) Kaiser Permanente Hospital 1425 South Main Street Walnut Creek, CA (925) John Muir Medical Center 2540 East Street Concord, CA (925)

12 Clayton Public Schools ELEMENTARY SCHOOL Mt. Diablo Elementary 5880 Mt. Zion Drive Clayton, CA (925) MIDDLE SCHOOL Diablo View Middle School Diablo View Lane Clayton, CA (925) HIGH SCHOOL Clayton Valley Charter High School 1101 Alberta Way Concord, CA Phone: (925)

13 Sports & Recreation GOLF Oakhurst Country Club (925) oakhurstcc.com From lateral hazards to daunting doglegs and roughs, this Ron Fream-designed, par 72 course is recognized as the Best Golf Course in the East Bay. With panoramic views of the exquisite Mt. Diablo, lush green fairways, and scenic views, Oakhurst lives up to its reputation. BASEBALL Clayton Valley Little League (925) BASKETBALL East Bay CYO Basketball League (925) BOCCE BALL Ispen Bocce Park (925) FOOTBALL Clayton Valley Youth Football (925) TRAIL RIDING Concord Mt. Diablo Trail Ride Assn (925) SOCCER Ayso (925) ayso223.d4sportsclub.com Mt. Diablo Soccer Associaton (925) mdslsoccer.org California Youth Soccer Association (925) SWIMMING Dana Hills Swim Team (925) or (925) Terrapins Swim Team (925) CLAYTON COMMUNITY GYM Diablo View Middle School (925)

East Bay Regional Park District East Bay Regional Park District (EBRPD) is a system of beautiful public parks and trails in Alameda and Contra Costa Counties.

14 East Bay Regional Park District East Bay Regional Park District (EBRPD) is a system of beautiful public parks and trails in Alameda and Contra Costa Counties. The system encompasses 1,745 square miles on the eastern side of San Francisco Bay. Over 97,000 acres 65 regional parks, recreation areas, wilderness, shorelines, preserves and land bank areas 29 regional inter park trails Mt. DIablo State Park For General park Information: (925) This park is one of the ecological treasures of the San Francisco Bay Area. Every season in the park has its special qualities. Discover for yourself the mountain s beautiful wildflowers, its extensive trail system, fascinating wildlife and distinctive rock formations. View the stars from its lofty heights, bike ride to its 3,849 foot summit or explore the more remote trails by horseback. The park offers hiking, biking, horseback riding and camping. 1,150 miles of trails within parklands 11 freshwater swimming areas, boating and/or stocked fishing lakes and lagoons and a disableaccessible swimming pool 40 fishing piers, 3 bay fishing piers 235 family campsites, 42 youth camping areas 2 Golf Courses 2,082 family picnic tables 1707 reservable group picnic tables 9 interpretive and educational centers 18 children play areas Wedding, meeting and banquet facilities 12

Clayton City Parks From North Valley Park nestled in the upper hills of Oakhurst to Lydia Lane Park on the Cardinet Oaks Trail to the flagship Clayton Community Park perched on a hill overlooking the

15 Clayton City Parks From North Valley Park nestled in the upper hills of Oakhurst to Lydia Lane Park on the Cardinet Oaks Trail to the flagship Clayton Community Park perched on a hill overlooking the city, the city of Clayton has six parks for the community to enjoy. Clayton Dog Park The dog park is located adjacent to Marsh Creek Road, North of Regency Drive, across from the Community Park, this is a fenced in, off leash park.. Open sunrise to sunset Clayton Community Park located off Regency Drive, behind Diablo View Middle School Lydia Lane Park located at the northeast end of Lydia Lane off of Clayton Road North Valley Park located on Keller Ridge Drive Equestrian Staging Area located on the east side of Clayton Road just past Peacock Creek Westwood Park located at the end of Haviland Place, off of Clayton Road Other information: Open sunrise to sunset No smoking No dumping trash Keep dogs on leashes (except at the dog park) Pick up after pets No open fires Ball fields closed for maintenance December through February Reserve ball fields or picnic areas: (925)

16 Entertainment Bedford Gallery 1601 Civic Drive Walnut Creek, CA Phone: (925) Sleep Train Pavilion 2000 Kirker Pass Road Concord, CA Phone: ( Dean Lesher Regional Center for the Arts 1601 Civic Drive Walnut Creek, CA (925) Lindsay Wildlife Museum 1931 First Avenue Walnut Creek, CA Phone: (925) Pixieland Amusement Park 2740 East Olivera Road Concord, CA Phone: (925) Clayton Museum 6101 Main Street Clayton, CA Phone: (925)

17 Restaurants Canesa s Brooklyn Heros 6026 Main Street (925) Casa Gourmet Burritos 5435 Clayton Road (925) $150, Center mortgage Street Deli & Cafe 6101 Center Street (925) Cinco De Mayo 5415 Clayton Road (925) The Club at Oakhurst 1001 Peacock Creek Drive (925) Country Waffles 5435 Clayton Road Suite B (925) Ed s Mudville Grill 6200 Center Street, Suite D (925) J.J. Hawaiian BBQ 5435 Clayton Road (925) La Veranda 6201 Center Street (925) Moresi s Chophouse 6115 Main Street (925) 1 point = Papa $1,150 Murphy s Take N Bake Pizza 5433 Clayton Road (925) Pavillion Bar & Grill 1508 Kirker Pass Road (925) Skipolini s Pizza 1033 Diablo Street (925)

Clayton Relocation Guide

Clayton Relocation Guide Walnut Creek Branch 1331 N. California Blvd., #100 Walnut Creek, CA 94596 Phone: 925.946.1616 Fax: 925.939.9206 www.placertitle.com The Placer Title Company Story Placer Title