Washington Square might be considered an up-and-coming version of Park Santiago with its quiet, tranquil, tree-lined streets and lovely vintage homes, yet in close proximity to bustling Downtown Santa Ana. It’s located just south of 17th and bordered to Civic Center on the south, between Flower and Bristol, east and west.
Moving to Washington Square makes you a part of its history – this is where the first family, The Ross Family, settled in what was to become the city of Santa Ana back in 1868. Jacob Ross Sr., along his wife and children, moved here when he purchased the Rancho Santiago de Santa Ana shares of land after hearing that the four Yorba descendants were willing to sell. Before 1871, Jacob Ross Sr. sold this land that was later surveyed and plotted as the city of Santa Ana to William Spurgeon (Founder of Santa Ana) and Ward Bradford.
Today, the original Ross family home, built in 1879 still stands proudly at 1020 N. Baker Street, having been carefully restored by descendants of the Ross Family.
Washington Square is actively preserved by the Washington Square Neighborhood Association, a volunteer non-paid association. Every year, The Washington Square Neighborhood Association holds their annual Wine Walk Festival, among many other community fundraising events.
Similar to Park Santiago, this is a hidden gem offering serenity a stone’s throw from a bustling metropolis. Homes in Washington square are also generally more affordable than those north of 17th which make this a great entry area for those seeking the character of Floral Park or Park Santiago at a lower price point.
