Loyola is a charming and lesser-known community nestled in Santa Clara County approximately 40 miles south of San Francisco. It has a rich history and unique character that make it a hidden gem in the region.

The land that is now Loyola was originally inhabited by the Ohlone people. In the 18th century, the Spanish granted the land to Californio ranchero José María Alviso. After the Mexican-American War, the United States acquired California and the land was divided up and sold.

Loyola was initially established as a small settlement for the workers building the Southern Pacific Railroad in the late 19th century. The town was named Loyola in 1959 after St. Ignatius of Loyola, the founder of the Jesuit order. In the early 20th century, the community began to transition to a suburban town. Today, it retains its small-town charm with a fascinating blend of rural and suburban characteristics.

The community primarily consists of residential neighborhoods, but you can still find some local businesses and farms in the midst of Silicon Valley’s hustle and bustle. This unique combination of a peaceful, rural atmosphere within proximity to the tech-driven economy of the surrounding cities is what sets Loyola apart.