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~Victorville & Route 66~
The first residence of Victor Valley where the Shoshonean Paiutes, Mojaves, Serranos, Vanyumes and the Chemehueves. They all wondered in and out of the valley for water and food. They often fought and the strongest tribe remained. The Spanish traveled through this area by using trails created by Native Americans. It was eventually used by fur trappers Jedidiah S. Smith and explorers Brevet Captain John C. Fremont. It was finally settled by pioneer Captain A. G. Lane in 1858. He attained the rank of Captain during the Mexican-American War, but sadly suffered from malaria. He found the dry climate helpful to his condition. He established what was called Lane's Crossing. He offered travelers who were passing through goods they needed to continue on. He was successful of growing crops and raising cattle. It was in 1895, this village was called "Victor" after Supervisor Jacob Nash Victor when the railroad came to Victor Valley. It was an engineering triumph that arrived in 1883 built by the California Southern RR line. It reached the Atlantic & Pacific (UPRR) junction at Barstow/Daggett in 1885. It was renamed to Victorville in 1901 when the post office was established.
"~~Route 66~~"
In 1926, highway U.S. Route 66 found it's way through Victorville. It graces Seventh Street and continues across Interstate 15 and becomes Palmdale Road, which passes through Old Town Victorville. Yet, not longer the main passage since Interstate 15 passes right over it. Old Town Victorville looks a little weary. I was exploring and was a little dismay in the condition of many of the buildings. Most were vacant, and yet some business such as the antique stores are hanging in there. There is lots of historical interest in the old town area, but I do not want VT travelers think this is all of what Victorville has to offer. There is a huge outlet factory mall located off of Interstate 15 and more.
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