Altadena Anthology
Altadena was opened as a subdivision in late 1887 by John and Fred Woodbury from Marshalltown, Iowa. The Woodburys envisioned a millionaires’ rural suburb north of busy Pasadena, hoping to add to the wealthy class already gathering here, including Col. Charles Greene and Andrew McNally. Their timing was off, the real estate bubble burst in 1888, and the region was thrown into an economic panic that grew worse as it merged into a great national depression lasting through much of the 1890s. A bright spot in this period was the development of Thaddeus Lowe’s elegant mountain railway, which created a connection from Los Angeles though Pasadena and up to Altadena and beyond, to the many hotels and camps in the mountains. There, temperance was not an issue.
Outlaws

Outlaws

by | Jul 19, 2025 | | 0 Comments

This lecture explores an essential layer of Altadena’s rich and historic human…

Altadena Revealed

Altadena Revealed

by | Jul 14, 2025 | | 0 Comments

This lecture will explore an essential layer of Altadena's rich and historic human diversity: its troublemakers. What can they teach us about the meaning of this place, and to what degree are they worth remembering? Subjects include Zeke the Compost Sheik, Paul Little...

Annual Holiday Gathering

Annual Holiday Gathering

by | Oct 15, 2024 | | 0 Comments

Altadena Heritage’s Holiday Celebration The annual gathering of all Altadena Heritage members took place this year on December 14th. We had a wonderful turnout and learned about the original Italianate Victorian built by Altadena founder Captain Fred Woodbury. Our...

AH Annual Tree Give Away

AH Annual Tree Give Away

by | Oct 15, 2024 | | 0 Comments

Annual Tree Giveaway!The tree species on offer, as well as the order form, are available by clicking the button. Apply by October 15. The pick up date is November 16, a perfect time for planting.