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

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

     Harrison, Curtis and Sweetzer sold the first acreage in "THE PALMS" subdivision on December 27, 1886 for $200 per acre and sold town lots at $200 for a 50 x 150 foot lot.  Before the subdivision of Palms it post office had been established in this area and 1874.  This was a Machado for Augustin Machado, one of the owners of Rancho La Ballona.  After the townsite was laid out the post office was changed to Palms.     

     The first railroad in this area, and the second to be built in Southern California, was constructed in 1875 by John P. Jones, founder of Santa Monica.  It was known as the Los Angeles and Independence Railroad and connected Santa Monica with Los Angeles.  In the local area a station was established and called "Bay View."  The station, like the post office, was changed to Palms after the community was subdivided.  It is upon part of the old station grounds that the Great Western Biscuit Co. is now building a large, modern plant for making crackers and cookies.

     The Palms Depot has been moved to Heritage Square Museum where it is preserved.