The unincorporated area of Val Verde, a few miles northwest of Six Flags Magic Mountain and 4 miles from Castaic Junction, has a population of approximately 2,800 residents and 900 homes. Although it’s small in size, the unincorporated community that is often forgotten is also rich in historical significance, dating back to the Jim Crow era, when it was a haven for African Americans — and it’s set to celebrate its 100 th anniversary. The Val Verde Historical Society is scheduled to host its “Back to Val Verde for Val Verde’s 100!” celebration on Aug.
31 beginning at 11 a.m. with live music, speakers and family fun at Val Verde Community Park.
The event is open to the entire community and free of cost. The event aims to bring in new visitors, shed light on the community, and provide a step toward revitalizing the area. Val Verde, also known as “Green Valley,” became a safe place during the 20 th Century for African Americans seeking recreational activities when racial segregation was in place, said Tim Williams, president of the organization and a longtime resident of the community.
Williams moved to Val Verde when he was just 6 years old in 1959. He now shares the town’s history with anyone curious enough to ask and advocates for the community to receive the care it deserves. “Back in the early 1900s there was the Jim Crow laws and Blacks couldn’t [own] property, couldn’t visit certain pools or certain beaches,” he said.
“This Black investment grou.