Lincoln, California, often feels like a sprawling, modern suburb, but beneath the veneer of new developments and growing communities lies a rich history that many residents might not even realize. It's a tale woven with railroads, clay, and significant growth.

The Railroad's Pivotal Role

Lincoln's story truly begins with the railroad. In 1859, the town was surveyed and laid out by Theodore Judah, a prominent railroad engineer, along the proposed route of the California Central Railroad (CCRR). The town itself was named after Charles Lincoln Wilson, a key figure in organizing and funding the CCRR. The railroad was designed to connect Marysville and Sacramento, linking with the Sacramento Valley Railroad in Folsom. With the help of Chinese laborers, the railroad reached Lincoln on October 14, 1861, making it likely California's first planned railroad town. This railway connection was crucial, transforming Lincoln from a quiet area into a bustling hub for trade and agriculture. For a brief period, Lincoln was even the temporary terminus of the CCRR, experiencing a small boom before the line was extended further.

From Coal to Clay: The Industrial Backbone

Interestingly, Lincoln's industrial history isn't just about the railroad. While coal was discovered in 1873, leading to a temporary commercial interest, it was the discovery of high-quality clay deposits in the early 1870s that truly shaped Lincoln's future. This led to the establishment of Gladding, McBean & Co. in 1875, a pottery company that became famous for its architectural terra cotta and other clay products. These products were vital for construction across California and beyond, putting Lincoln on the map as a center for craftsmanship and industry. In fact, Gladding, McBean & Co. even donated materials for the construction of the Lincoln Carnegie Library, a beautiful Classical Revival building erected in 1909, which is now on the National Register of Historic Places.

Beyond the Tracks: Early Settlements and Growth

Before the railroad, the Lincoln area was home to the Nisenan (or Nishinam) people, a branch of the Maidu Indians, for over 5000 years. Their major village, Ba-Mu-Ma, was the first known settlement. Spanish explorers and fur trappers arrived in the early 1800s, followed by European emigrants in the 1840s who started the first farms and ranches. The Gold Rush further hastened the influx of people, and by 1858, there were several short-lived mining towns near present-day Lincoln.

Lincoln remained a relatively sleepy town until the mid-1990s when the expansion of Sacramento's suburbs brought a new wave of growth. Between 2000 and 2010, Lincoln experienced a staggering 282% population increase, making it the fastest-growing city in the U.S. with over 10,000 people during that decade. This rapid growth continues, with the population reaching 49,757 in 2020 and an estimated 54,538 in 2023.

Lincoln Crossing: A Modern Master-Planned Community

Now, let's talk about Lincoln Crossing. This area is a prime example of Lincoln's more recent, rapid development. It's a large master-planned community that has significantly contributed to the city's population boom. While the name "Lincoln Crossing" might sound like it has historical ties to the railroad "crossing" through Lincoln, its origins are more contemporary. There's a "Lincoln Crossing" in Denver that was built in the 1970s and 80s, but that's a different place entirely. Our Lincoln Crossing is a modern endeavor, with developers like Taylor Builders acquiring land for new home construction as recently as 2018. It's known for its community vibe, offering residents amenities like a fitness center, game room, and two pools at "The Club at Lincoln Crossing." The community also boasts a five-acre park adjacent to Lincoln Crossing Elementary, featuring sports fields, a play structure, and trails. It's a testament to Lincoln's transition into a vibrant, growing suburban city, balancing new development with its rich historical roots.