A Very Brief History of Eagle Rock

It is believed that early day Native American Tongva living in the area and coming upon this distinctive sandstone rock formation, very fittingly bestowed the title of the "Eagle Rock," which in actual fact does bear a striking resemblance to the head and wings of an eagle in flight.

The Eagle Rock is a huge "conglomerate" or "puddingstone". Twelve million years ago there were hot springs just north of the rock. Lime from the springs cemented thousands of field stones and boulders together to form this one great rock. Near the top of the rock, erosion has formed an overhang which when viewed around the noon hour casts the shadow of a spread eagle.

A village of Tongva, called  "Gabrielinos" by the Spanish missionaries, occupied the little valley at the base of the Eagle Rock, attracted there by abundant supply of water. The village consisted of thatched dwellings, a sweat house, and a ceremonial enclosure.

The area was discovered by the Spanish explorer Portola in 1770. Near the rock's base the Tongva  smoked the pipe of peace with Portola's party, using native wild tobacco which still grows here.

In 1870, the Eagle Rock caves were inhabited by the Mexican bandit Vasquez, and at one time were used by a whole band of desperadoes to hide their loot. Legend has it that some of the treasure is still buried in this area, concealed from seekers.

Comments

[EL CHAVO!]

I'd never heard of T. Vasquez hanging out in Eagle Rock, I think that's just a rumor. He was known to hang out at the rocks near Santa Clarita, now known by his name, Vasquez Rocks. They're quite nice and worth a day trip.