Val Verde, California

Val Verde is a census-designated place (CDP) in the southeastern Topatopa Mountains foothills, and in northwestern Los Angeles County, California. The city of anta Clarita is to the east.The population was 2,468 at the 2010 census, up from 1,472 at the 2000 census.HistoryOriginally the settlement of Val Verde was a short-lived boom town built by colonial Mexican settlers near a gold strike in 19th century Alta California.In 1924, the modern settlement was founded by Sidney P. Dones, and named Eureka Villa. That settlement was designed as a resort community for African Americans, as in that period African Americans were frequently barred from public beaches and swimming pools. The town became known as the "Black Palm Springs." By the 1930s the area was wildly popular, mainly because it was one of only a few places blacks could go for recreation.Other Southern California destinations included Lake Elsinore reservoir in Riverside County, a section of Venice Beach, Bruce's Beach in the South Bay, and a park in Pasadena only open to blacks one day a year.In 1939, the cornerstone for the Olympic swimming pool was laid. In the 1994 Northridge earthquake, the original pool was damaged and has since been repaired and shortened. The pool is part of the Los Angeles County Park system. It opens late spring until early fall. Day and evening swimming sessions occur daily.