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St. Helena, California is an ideal senior vacation and retirement community located in the Napa Valley.

St. Helena CA History

Inside St. Helena city limits, archeologists have found arrowheads, flakes of obsidian produced while making tools and weapons, discarded animal bones and projectile points that might have been attached to spears as far back as 5,000 B.C. Many of the artifacts were probably left by the Wappo Native American Indian tribe. Noticeably darker soil that was found also indicates the presence of hearths and roasting pits, which signifies that the area was inhabited frequently.

This area was eventually settled by Mexican military officer Mariano Guadalupe Vallejo in 1834 as part of a land grant. The area was recognized as a special place because of its natural protection, abundant water and fertile land. From the start, St. Helena served as a rural agricultural center.

St. Helena, California incorporated as a city in 1876 and reincorporated in 1889. In 1908, philanthropist Andrew Carnegie donated $7500 to construct the first permanent library building.

St. Helena California – Small-Town Atmosphere & World-Class Wineries

The town has become an important business and banking center for the wine industry. Over 200 wineries are nestled between the hills of this spectacularly beautiful Napa Valley. Most are within a short drive from downtown St. Helena. The town gets many senior visitors who appreciate the charming small-town atmosphere, world-famous wineries, world-class restaurants and incredibly diverse selection of lodging.