Solvang History

The Danish Settlement

In 1911, a group of Danish-American educators from the Midwest purchased 9,000 acres in the Santa Ynez Valley to establish a Danish colony where they could preserve their cultural heritage. They named their settlement Solvang, meaning "sunny field" in Danish.

Early Years

The founders built Atterdag College (a Danish folk school), established farms, and created a tight-knit Danish community. The town remained a quiet agricultural village for decades, with residents speaking Danish and maintaining traditional customs.

Becoming a Destination

In the 1940s, Solvang began transforming into a tourist destination. Local merchants rebuilt their storefronts in Danish Provincial style, complete with half-timbered facades, thatched roofs, and windmills. The charming architecture attracted visitors seeking a taste of Denmark in California.

Solvang Today

Incorporated as a city in 1985, Solvang now welcomes over one million visitors annually. The village features Danish bakeries, restaurants, shops, and the Elverhoj Museum of History and Art. Solvang proudly maintains its Danish heritage while serving as a gateway to Santa Ynez Valley wine country.

Population

Solvang is home to approximately 6,100 residents within its 2.4 square miles. The city provides full municipal services including water, wastewater, parks, and public works, while contracting with Santa Barbara County for police and fire protection.