Trail through El Prieto Canyon (Photo – Altadena Historical Society)
El Prieto Canyon, just above Altadena proper, was the home of Robert Owens who, born into slavery in 1806, became the wealthiest Black man in Los Angeles County later in life.
By News Desk
With little accessible information about Robert Owens and Altadena’s popular El Prieto Canyon, Erik Hillard, a local outdoorsman and trail builder, was inspired to find out more about the man after whom the treasured canyon was named.
Hillard will present the result of his research at Altadena Historical Society’s Quarterly Program on Monday, January 23. The program is free to members and donations from non-members are encouraged.
El Prieto, Spanish for “the dark-skinned one,” refers to Robert Owens, an exceptional man who purchased his freedom from a Texas cotton farmer, moved his family to the San Gabriel foothills, and began a successful lumber business.
Owens’ stature in the community grew as his business expanded to include livery stable services (horse boarding, care, and rental) and property in the city of Los Angeles. He was instrumental in freeing illegally enslaved Biddy Mason, who became the owner of a real estate empire.
Altadena Historical Society Monday, January 23, 2023 7:00 pm Location Altadena Community Center 730 E. Altadena Drive, Altadena
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