Located in Orange County, California, Brea was established in 1917. 'Brea' means 'tar' in Spanish — named for oil/tar seeps. Major oil producing town in the early 1900s.
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Founded1917|Population48,000|Peak48,000(2024)|CountyOrange County
Top 10 Most Important Events for Brea, California
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1885Railroad Era: Railroad connections spurred growth and commerce in Brea.
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1917Founded: Brea was founded as a railroad town in Orange County.
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1950Economic Development: Brea grew through the oil and petroleum industry.
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2010Modern Era: Brea continued to develop as part of the greater metropolitan area, with new infrastructure and community amenities.
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Complete Historical Timeline
1885Transport
Railroad Era
1917Culture
Founded
1950Industry
Economic Development
2010Culture
Modern Era
Did You Know?
1
'Brea' means 'tar' in Spanish — named for oil/tar seeps.
2
Major oil producing town in the early 1900s.
3
Brea Mall is a popular regional shopping center.
4
Brea is located in Orange County, California.
5
Brea was founded in 1917.
Famous People from Brea, California
NZ
Nikki Ziering
Actor, Playboy Playmate · Born Aug 9, 1971 · Age 54
SB
Stephanie J. Block
Actor, Singer · Born Sep 19, 1972 · Age 53
KF
Kyle Fogg
Basketball Player · Born Jan 27, 1990 · Age 36
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