Above is a link to a podcast about Laguna Woods, covering the early history to present day. Share it with your friends, neighbors or anyone else who wants to know more about Laguna Woods. It covers almost a century of history in just 10 minutes. Below you will find a condensed version of the podcast…
The history of Laguna Woods Village transformed the surrounding area from a rural farming community to a bustling hub for active senior living.
Prior to the 1960s, the area that is now Laguna Woods Village was part of the Moulton Ranch, a large expanse of land used primarily for dry farming and cattle grazing.
The few structures in the area were scattered ranch dwellings and barns. One resident recalled that the only gas station for miles was a Standard Oil station at the corner of El Toro and Paseo de Valencia.
In 1962, developer Ross Cortese purchased 3,500 acres of the Moulton Ranch with the goal of creating Leisure World Laguna Hills (now called Laguna Woods Village), a community designed for residents aged 52 and older.
Cortese’s vision was to create a community that met the needs of an aging population, providing residents with amenities, security, recreation, and religious facilities.
The first residents arrived in 1964, and over the next 18 years, Laguna Woods Village was built out in stages.
The community’s growth spurred the development of amenities and services in the surrounding area. As the population grew, businesses like supermarkets, restaurants, and banks were established.
The presence of Laguna Woods Village also contributed to the development of healthcare facilities in the region, including Saddleback Hospital. Residents played an active role in raising funds for the hospital, demonstrating their commitment to creating a thriving and self-sufficient community.
In 1999, the area that encompasses Laguna Woods Village was incorporated as the City of Laguna Woods, becoming Orange County’s 32nd city.
Today, the City of Laguna Woods is a vibrant community that is home to a variety of senior-oriented residential communities, commercial centers, and open spaces.
The transformation of the area surrounding Laguna Woods Village is a testament to the vision of its founder and the community’s commitment to active living and self-sufficiency.
