Norwalk Arts & Sports Complex

History

Established in 1957.

At the turn of the century, Norwalk had become established as the dairy «Heart of the Valleys.» Of the 50 local families reported in the 1900 census, most were associated with farming or with the dairy industry. Norwalk was also the home of some of the largest sugar beet farms in all of Southern California during this era. As the years passed, the community continued to grow. Permanent educational facilities were constructed, electricity and telephone service installed, and railroads and highways linked Norwalk to statewide markets.

The need for local control over local affairs soon became so great that a special incorporation election was called. On August 26, 1957, Norwalk was certified by the Secretary of State as California’s 15^th largest city and became L.A. County’s 66^th city. With cityhood came startling improvements in services to local residents. Progressive health and building standards were adopted, law enforcement increased, storm drainage improved, and citywide street li