The earliest known documented reference to the North American Indians living in the region is in a diary by a Franciscan missionary who explored the area for the San Diego Mission in 1795.
In 1845, Rancho Guejito was established. This historic site dates from the era when California was part of Mexico. It is the only rancho among 800 original ranchos still in existence with its boundaries intact.
In 1862, homesteaders came to Valley Center after President Lincoln signed the Homestead Act permitting newcomers to claim 160 acres of land for a nominal filing fee.
The name Bear Valley or Bear Valley Township was commonly used to describe the area from 1866 when the largest California Grizzly Bear ever captured was taken in the town. It weighed 2,200 pounds. Before that incident, the town had no official name. The town name was changed in 1874 to Valley; in 1878, to Valley Centre; and, in 1887, to Valley Center.
Traditionally, thanks to the local microclimates, the town and the surrounding areas have largely been dedicated to agricultural uses. Various commercial crops include oranges, lemons, and avocados. More recently farmers have taken up other crops such as ornamental floral products like lavender. Additionally, there is a thriving animal farming industry including egg-producing hens, llamas, and a large milk dairy. Valley Center residents are used to eating fresh fruits and vegetables, locally grown...sometimes on their own two-acre lots.
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