Watsonville is a city located in Santa Cruz County, California. The area was originally inhabited by the Ohlone tribe before Spanish explorers arrived in the late 18th century. The city was founded in 1852 by Dr. Edward A. Watson, a judge and businessman who purchased the land and laid out the town site. Watsonville quickly grew as a center for farming and agriculture, particularly in the production of apples, strawberries, and lettuce.
Notable people from Watsonville include former NFL player Nate Davis, artist David Ligare, and Olympic gold medalist Lori McNeil.
According to the 2010 United States Census, the population of Watsonville was 51,199. The city has a diverse population with a large Latino community.
Watsonville is located in the Pajaro Valley in central California, surrounded by fertile farmland and rolling hills. The city is situated about 95 miles south of San Francisco and 30 miles south of San Jose.
Watsonville's economy is largely based on agriculture, with a focus on the production of strawberries, apples, lettuce, and other crops. The city also has a growing manufacturing sector, particularly in the fields of technology and electronics.
Watsonville has a rich cultural heritage, with a vibrant arts scene and numerous festivals celebrating the city's agricultural roots. The city is also known for its diverse cuisine, including Mexican, Filipino, and Japanese influences.