History of Lake Hughes, California in Timeline
Lake Hughes is an unincorporated community in Los Angeles County, California, situated within the Angeles National Forest. Characterized by its rural setting and recreational opportunities, the community is nestled in the Sierra Pelona Mountains, near Lake Hughes, Elizabeth Lake, and other neighboring water bodies. With a population of 649 as of 2010, it shares a ZIP code with the adjacent community of Elizabeth Lake.
1907: Construction Begins on Elizabeth Lake Tunnel
In 1907, William Mulholland, leading the Los Angeles Department of Water and Power, initiated the construction of the Elizabeth Lake Tunnel. This tunnel, a crucial part of the Los Angeles Aqueduct, was intended to carry water from Owens Valley to Los Angeles.
1924: Lake Hughes Promoted as a Summer Resort
C.A. Austin, in 1924, began promoting Lake Hughes as an appealing mountain resort destination, highlighting its location on the edge of Antelope Valley.
1947: Roy Rogers Acquires "Sky Haven Ranch"
Roy Rogers, the renowned cowboy actor, purchased a property in Lake Hughes in the spring of 1947. This property, which he named "Sky Haven Ranch," became his family's new retreat, and his daughter Cheryl even attended the local Lake Hughes School.
2010: United States Census Reports Median Household Income
In 2010, the United States Census reported that the median household income in Lake Hughes was $53,281. However, there was also a significant portion of the population, 29%, facing economic hardship and living below the federal poverty line.
2010: United States Census Records Lake Hughes Population
The United States Census in 2010 recorded Lake Hughes' population at 649 residents, reflecting a density of 60.7 inhabitants per square mile. The demographic data also showed that the community was primarily White, with a smaller percentage of Hispanic or Latino residents.
2020: Lake Fire Originates in Lake Hughes
The 2020 Lake Fire, a significant wildfire event, was first reported in Lake Hughes.