San Manuel Village is a small community located in the foothills of the San Bernardino Mountains in California. The village was originally founded in 1953 as a company town for the San Manuel Copper Corporation, which operated a copper mine in the nearby mountains. Many of the homes in the village were built by the company to house its workers and their families.
The San Manuel Copper Corporation was a major employer in the area for over 50 years. The mine was one of the largest copper producers in the United States and provided jobs for thousands of workers. The company also played an active role in the community, supporting local schools, community events, and charitable organizations.
In the late 1990s, the San Manuel Copper Corporation was acquired by another mining company, which eventually closed the mine in 1999. This had a significant impact on the community, as many residents were left without jobs and the financial support of the company.
Despite the closure of the mine, San Manuel Village has continued to be home to a tight-knit community of residents who are proud of their village's history and culture. While the village may no longer be a company town, it is still a unique and vibrant place to live.
One of the biggest draws of San Manuel Village is its stunning natural surroundings. The village is situated in a scenic area of the San Bernardino Mountains, with easy access to hiking trails, scenic drives, and other outdoor activities. Residents can enjoy stunning views of the mountains from many parts of the village.
In addition to its natural beauty, San Manuel Village is also home to a range of amenities that make it a great place to live. The village has its own community center, which hosts a variety of events and activities throughout the year. There are also several parks and playgrounds in the village, as well as a public pool and tennis courts.
One of the defining features of San Manuel Village is its strong sense of community spirit. Despite the challenges that the closure of the mine presented, residents have come together to support one another and to preserve the village's unique culture and history.
In recent years, the San Manuel Band of Mission Indians has played a key role in supporting the village. The tribe, which owns and operates the San Manuel Casino, has made significant investments in the community, including supporting local schools, offering job training programs, and sponsoring community events.
The San Manuel Band of Mission Indians has also worked closely with the village to preserve its cultural heritage. The tribe has partnered with the village on a number of initiatives, including restoring historic buildings and landmarks, creating a museum dedicated to the history of the mine and the village, and sponsoring cultural events that showcase the traditions of the local Native American community.
While San Manuel Village may no longer be a company town, it remains a unique and vibrant community with a rich history and culture. Residents of the village enjoy stunning natural surroundings, a range of amenities, and a strong sense of community spirit. With the support of the San Manuel Band of Mission Indians and other local organizations, the village is poised to continue thriving for years to come.