History Happy Hour: David Blinn presents "Campbell Incorporated, The Little Station That Became a City"

History Happy Hour at the Ainsley House

David Blinn presents

Campbell Incorporated, The Little Station that Became a City

Friday, June 13

5:30 pm-7:30 pm

At the Carriage House

Join us for an engaging look back at the incredible journey of Campbell—from a modest ranch to a thriving city! In 1846, Benjamin Campbell arrived in California and later purchased a 160-acre ranch in what would become the heart of Campbell’s historic downtown. Seeing the potential of the land and community, he ceded a portion of his property to the Southern Pacific Coast Railroad, creating a simple flag station known as Campbell Station. This station would grow into a bustling depot, drawing commerce and settlers to the area.

Benjamin Campbell’s decision to subdivide his land helped cultivate a small but flourishing township centered around fruit growing, drying, and canning—industries that would define the area for decades. As the region evolved, Campbell became a desirable suburb in the scenic and fertile Santa Clara Valley. Despite several failed attempts, the town’s residents remained persistent, and in 1952, their efforts finally paid off when Campbell was officially incorporated as a city.

This talk will dive into the rich history of Campbell’s early days, the influential figures who helped shape its future, and the complex process of incorporation. Don’t miss this celebration of local roots, resilience, and the enduring legacy of a small town with big ambitions!

About David Blinn

David Blinn is a retired lawyer and lifetime resident of Santa Clara County who fell in love with History at an early age when he got an old copy of "Ripley's Big Book of Believe it or Not" from his father. David also inherited his hoarding instinct from his father, but he claims only to the extent of his own comic book collection. He enjoys living in Downtown Campbell with his wife Kathryn, and is currently a volunteer researcher for the City of Campbell's History Museum.