THE HISTORY

Named after Gaspar de Portola, California's first terrestrial Spanish explorer who traveled in this area 1769.

Historical Monuments
(3-5 miles from Portola Hills)

MODJESKA'S HOME

Famous as the home of Madame Modjeska, one of the world's greatest actresses, the house was designed by Stanford White in 1888 and built on property called the 'Forest of Arden.' Sold soon after her retirement, it remains a monument to the woman who contributed immeasurably to the cultural life of Orange County.

LOCATION:
Modjeska Canyon, 500 ft E of intersection of Modjeska Canyon Rd and Harding Canyon Rd

SILVERADO

Located in Cañada de la Madera (Timber Canyon) was a mining boomtown founded in 1878 when silver was discovered nearby. During the colorful life of its boom, 1878-1881, miners flocking to the area established a thriving community, served daily by stage from Los Angeles and Santa Ana.

LOCATION:
Next to Silverado Fire Station #2, end of Silverado Canyon Rd, 3.4 mi E of Silverado post office, Silverado.