Rancho Corral de Tierra

The articles in this section were written by several authors between 1995 and 2005. Many pages are identified as “under construction,” and additional essays were planned but not completed. These articles reflect the available information and historical perspectives of the authors and the time when they were written. They have not been revised or updated. They do not necessarily represent the views of the Monterey County Historical Society, its board, volunteers, or staff.

On April 10, 1836, a grant of one league was been made by acting governor Nicolás Gutierrez to Francisco Figueroa for his daughter, Guadalupe. This was patented on January 21, 1876 to Henry D. Cobb. It consisted of 4,435 acres.

The Spanish term Corral de Tierra means “corral of earth.” This name comes from a natural box canyon in the old part of Corral de Tierra. The steep sides of this canyon made a natural corral once an earthen wall was erected across the narrow mouth. No trace of the wall remains today.

Sources:

Clark, Donald T., Monterey County Place Names (Kestrel Press, Carmel Valley, 1991).

Local History