Robert Owens’ History Within El Prieto Canyon
El Prieto Canyon, just above Altadena, CA proper, was the home of Robert Owens. Born into slavery in 1806, he became one of the wealthiest men in Los Angeles County. Lowelifes Respectable Citizens’ Club has worked to increase awareness of Owens as the man behind El Prieto Canyon & Trail.
Recognizing Owens’ story is an important step forward in acknowledging early African American settlers in Los Angeles. Installing a trail sign has significantly raised public awareness of Robert Owens’ connection to the canyon.
SIGN Project Status:
COMPLETE! The Robert Owens historical sign was unveiled on Juneteenth, Monday, June 19th, 2023. Visit the sign in El Prieto Canyon.
In January 2023, the Altadena Historical Society hosted Lowelifes’ Erik Hillard for a public presentation on Robert Owens.
The well-attended event further engaged the Altadena community and raised awareness of this largely unknown story.
Previous Robert Owens Articles
Juneteenth Celebration of the new Robert Owens Sign
Erik HillardOn the Juneteenth holiday, June 19, 2023, Lowelifes unveiled the…
Robert Owens Sign to be Unveiled on Juneteenth
Erik HillardFOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE In celebration of Juneteenth, Lowelifes Respectable Citizens…
Planning a Robert Owens sign in El Prieto
Erik HillardEngaging our local community is essential to successful trail projects….
Altadena’s Early Black Entrepreneur
R PettersenOn January 23rd, 2023 the Altadena Historical Society will host…
Robert Owens and El Prieto Canyon
Erik HillardOne of the most popular single-track trails in Southern California…