The Story of Palms - Its Founding
by David I.  Worsfold

David I. Worsfold, noted Palms historian, booster, and honorary mayor, probably wrote this article in the late-1940's.

     The 13,920 acres of Rancho La Ballona were divided among various heirs and claimants in 1868 and subsequently, a 500 acre parcel sold in 1883 for $35.00 per acre.  This parcel sold again in 1886 for $75.00 per acre in a few months later for $80.00 per acre.  This acreage was subdivided as "THE PALMS" in December 1886, the owners at that time being C. G. Harrison, Joseph Curtis and E. H. Sweetzer.  Considering the Los Angeles County had only 33,391 population in the 1880 census, the growth of this area in the following years is nothing short of miraculous.  The present population served from Palms Station of Los Angeles Postoffice is in excess of 33,000 or equal to the 1880 population of the entire County of Los Angeles which then also included Orange County.

     Palms Chamber of Commerce was the first civic organization of the community.   It was established in January 1907.