The First Incorporated City in South Bay/Docklands: Wilmington
Wilmington holds the distinction of being the first South Bay/Docklands city to be officially incorporated, way back in 1871. This marked the beginning of a trend where municipalities in the area began to take control of their commercial affairs, public works, and civic activities through elected officials chosen by residents.
The Growth and Challenges of Wilmington and San Pedro
Following its initial incorporation, Wilmington faced economic challenges and eventually repealed its city status in 1887. However, the city regrouped and re-incorporated in 1907, fending off attempts by neighboring Long Beach to annex it. Similarly, San Pedro, which saw rapid growth due to its natural harbor, also gave up its city status in 1909 after initial incorporation in 1888.
Both Wilmington and San Pedro are now part of the city of Los Angeles, following a merger in 1909 as part of the Port of Los Angeles consolidation.
The Evolution of Other South Bay/Docklands Cities
Redondo Beach, the oldest city in the area, was officially incorporated in 1892, followed by Hermosa Beach in 1907 and Manhattan Beach in 1912. The industrial development in El Segundo in 1917 and the incorporation of Torrance in 1921 marked further milestones in the region’s growth.
Over the years, cities like Lomita, Carson, and Lomita fought off annexation attempts and successfully incorporated to maintain their independence. The unique case of Avalon on Catalina Island, which became its own incorporated city in 1913, showcases a community-driven push for self-governance.
Various peninsula cities like Palos Verdes Estates, Rolling Hills, and Rolling Hills Estates were established with less controversy, contrasting the contentious debates that surrounded their formation. The unincorporated areas like Lennox and Playa Del Rey remain as part of Los Angeles County, despite past attempts at annexation.
Each city in the South Bay/Docklands area has a rich history of mergers, incorporations, and battles for independence, shaping the unique landscape of this vibrant region.
