Untitled Document
The Vikings established the first settlement at the vadrefjord around 914, the Anglo-Normans took over the thriving harbor town in 1170 and made it one of the richest in Ireland. During the middle ages shipbuilding and export trade made Waterford flourish, but the rejection of Protestantism put the city in conflict with the ruling English. After 1660 the city rose from the ashes and from 1783 onwards lead crystal made new fortunes. Temporarily - duties and taxes proved too high to sustain prosperity and Waterford declined again in the 19th century.
The opening of the Waterford Crystal factory (1947) and the successful transatlantic trade connected with it revived the economy and since 1961 Waterford has expanded and (from 1986) been thoroughly renovated.
Located in the heart of the Central Valley, Waterford is the 8th largest city in Stanislaus County with a population which has grown steadily from 2,683 in 1980 to over 7,800 today.
Known as the "Gateway to Recreation", the city plays host to the thousands of people who travel through on their way to the many recreational opportunities in the area.
Waterford today
The city is still dominated by the Suir - a huge marina has been built, the waterfront was revived and the one bridge crossing the river guarantees almost daily traffic gridlock. The maritime industries have declined and even Waterford Crystal is experiencing turbulent times. But new commerce has been attracted and a new decline is not on the horizon. Often overlooked by visitors to Ireland, Waterford is a typical city well wort a visit.
What to expect
Once you actually have managed to cross the Suir you will find a city center built on an incline, starting at the southern bank of the river. Navigating the old streets can be extremely confusing in a car and is best avoided - Waterford is small enough to be explored on foot. This will also give you the opportunity to see the medieval walls.
When to visit
The tourist season runs roughly from April to October, with the Waterford Festival of Light Opera in September being the highlight of the social calendar.
Places to visit
The medieval city walls are especially well preserved near the watchtower on Castle Street. They are in contrast with some splendid Georgian architecture and (not really splendid) modern buildings. On the Quays you will find the Clock Tower, Holy Trinity Cathedral and the impressive Reginald's Tower (with an equestrian statue of Union General Meagher nearby). Do not miss the splendid Waterford Museum of Treasures! And if you are looking for crystal - the Waterford Crystal Factory is just 1.5 miles from the city center.
Originally settled in 1857 by William W. Baker, the town was originally named Bakersville. Mr. Baker homesteaded 160 acres just south of the river near the Appling Road Bridge.
In 1870 the post office was apparently having trouble delivering the mail as the name was being confused with the other places ( at the time the only other similarity was Bakersfield) so the post office suggested the name be changed. So in 1870 the name was changed to Waterford.
Other Important Dates in Waterford History
-
1866 White Oak School District formed
-
1891 Southern Pacific Railroad reaches Waterford
-
1893 Community Baptist Church services began
-
1904 First telephone service reaches Waterford
-
1908 White Oak School changes to Waterford School
-
1912 First Waterford Library founded
-
1913 Waterford Irrigation District Formed
-
1920 First Post Office Building
-
1921 Electricity lights up the streets
-
1938 Grange Hall built at Bentley & Hwy 132
-
1969 Incorporated as a city. Richard M. Moon becomes first Mayor
The city is surrounded by a variety and abundance of rich agriculture. Several crops grown locally are almonds, peaches, apples, walnut, and corn.
Learn more about this city
City of WATERFORD, CA official site
City of WATERFORD, CA general information
City of WATERFORD, CA yellow pages
County of STANISLAUS, CA official site
State of California official site