Close to Antelope Valley in Los Angeles County, California, is the census-designated Acton. Acton is a picturesque place that has been admired by many and used as a filming location by motion picture and television producers. This small residential community is nestled within the Sierra Pelona Mountains near Palmdale off Highway 14. The allure of the town greatly lies in its rural-western-themed homes, buildings, and streets. The panoramic view of Antelope Valley below and the ranch-style homes add to this awesome view. The Metrolink Rail Station is one of the most famous spots having featured in many commercials and movies.
The History of Acton
Miners extracting gold from the Red Rover Mine first set up camp in Acton in the mid 1800’s and formally founded the place in 1887. There was some effort to make Acton become California’s State Capital but that failed and the capital remained Sacramento. Since then, the area gradually became less of a mining centre and more of a farming and ranching community.
Demographics
The total population of Acton stood at 7,596 according to the 2010 US National Census with a population density of 193.4 persons per square mile. The racial make-up is as follows:
White 86.4%
Pacific Islander 0.1%
Native American 0.9%
African-American 0.8%
Asian 2.0%
Mixed Race 3.9%
Others 5.9%
Acton’s 2,660 households are composed of 33.9% having minors, 66.6% having heterosexual married couples, 7.3% with a female householder with no husband, and 4.4% with a male householder with no wife. The population is equally divided by gender on a 50-50 male: female basis and by age is divided thus:
Under 18 years 22.0%
18-24 8.7%
25-44 18.4%
45-64 40.0%
Over 64 11.0%
Education
The education system in Acton is operated by the Acton Agua Dulce School District and covers Meadowlark Elementary School, High Desert Middle School, and Vasquez High School.
Acton Attractions
One of the most popular attraction sites in Acton is the Shambala Wildlife Preserve founded in 1972 by famous actress and fashion model, Nathalie Kay “Tippi” Hedren and her Roar Foundation. The preserve rescues and takes care of big cats on the endangered species list such as Siberian tigers, African lions, Bengal Tigers, Florida panther, and many other wildlife species. Most of these animals are rescued from circus performers or donated by zoos and private owners. The most famous residents at the moment are Thriller and Sabu, Michael Jackson’s two Bengal tigers which the infamous legend donated to the preserve after closing down his Neverland Valley Ranch.
If you are a fan of dynamic soaring, then you know that Parker Mountain in Acton is the place to be. Some of the highest speeds have been recorded here with the current record which also happens to be the world record standing at 302 miles per hour. Acton food and Acton caterer are also one famous attraction of Acton catering.
Summary
Acton is a relatively small place but its size and peculiar traditional western theme is what attracts visitors and film crews there. You can actually mount your horse and tie it off on a side rail before enjoying yourself at the 49er hotel Acton food and saloon which was built in 1889 even today.