As an unincorporated area in the San Mateo County, Menlo Oaks, California, is a charming neighborhood near Bay Road and Berkeley Avenue. Menlo Oaks’ rich history dates back to the 1700s when the King of Spain still owned the land. With over 32,000 acres of land, the grasslands of Menlo Oaks catered to the natural wildlife and produced memorizing oak trees. Many of the Redwood Oak and Heritage Oak trees are descendants of the land and have been steadily growing for 300 to 400 years. The community of Menlo Oaks carries the pride of the original land and cares for the trees deeply, allowing them to continue their impressive growth.
A historic landmark that helps carry Menlo Oaks is the Peninsula School. Initially built in 1882, the Peninsula School was first the Coleman Mansion. The 22-room home was built as a wedding gift for James and Carmelita Coleman, and by 1925, it had been converted into the local private school. A famous alumnus from the Peninsula School is Grateful Dead’s founding member, Jerry Garcia. The band first performed within the walls of the school. Other well-known Menlo Oaks residents include folk singer Joan Baez, artist and graphic designer Sam Smidt, and filmmaker Dorothy Fadiman.