Where the Past Was Built to Last

The crust of development that covers Orange County has obliterated nearly all of its past--the groves, farms, ranches, packinghouses, country roads, old downtowns.

But in the seams between the planned communities and the redevelopment projects, some of the county’s history survives.

A few bits remain virtually unchanged. Others have been moved and preserved in historical parks. With a good map and a tank of gas, you can visit a one-room schoolhouse built in 1890, see the graves of men who owned the ranchos and tour the canyon hideaway of a 19th century international star.

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Guide to Tracing Orange County’s Roots

Heritage Hill Historical Park, 25151 Serrano Road, Lake Forest. Wednesdays through Sundays, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. (949) 855-2028. https://www.ocparks.com/heritagehill.

Yorba Cemetery, 6749 Parkwood Court, Yorba Linda. (714) 528-4260. https://www.ocparks.com/yorbacemetery.

Modjeska Historic House and Gardens, 29042 Modjeska Canyon Road, Modjeska Canyon. $5 per person. Reservations required. (949) 855-2028. https://www.ocparks.com/modjeskahouse.

Old Orange County Courthouse, 211 W. Santa Ana Blvd., Santa Ana. Mondays through Fridays, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., and occasional weekends and evenings. (714) 834-3703. https://www.ocparks.com/oldcourthouse.

Irvine Ranch Headquarters Historic Park, 13042 Old Myford Road, Irvine. Open for special events and by appointment only. (949) 855-2028.