Davenport,California
In 1906, the Santa Cruz Portland Cement Company started operation and the present town of Davenport was developed by the Coast Dairies and Land Company to house the workers at the cement plant. Locally the old RMC Lonestar Cement plant, which was sold called Cemex has been producing cement and shipping it by rail and truck for 100+ years.The cement plant closed in abut 2013. They mine most of their limestone and shale in the Bonny Doon area. If you go up Bonny Doon Road you will notice the conveyor that travels over several miles to the plant. At night the plant is the only lighted structure you see for miles as one sails down from San Francisco on the ocean, going past Pigeon Point light house.This was the only real industry in town and has provided employment to many a Santa Cruz families as well. The plant sold in 2013 I believe and the land is going to be in a nature conservancy.
The area is home to whale watching from the cliffs as the grey whales come close enough to see with the naked eye. Davenport has a few small stores and some artisans like Lundberg Studios, Whalehedge Gallery, and others as well. Though small, Davenport was also home to a fledgling company that many of us know country wide, Odwalla. Their production facility was across the street and has an awesome ocean view. The facility is currently home to William Henry, a private artist and was available for sale, in the 8 million dollar range, several years ago. It is a large, interesting place that would make a great upscale hotel. Across the way is the Davenport Road House at the Cash store which is a rustic spot to eat and has a B&B as well. The Whale City Bakery Bar & Grill is a good spot to grab some food or a pint of beer or wine after (or before) you go whale watching across the street. Remember drinking and driving or crossing busy streets do not mix.
The little town is home to approximately 430 citizens and has a local elementary school, as well as the Swanton Pacific Ranch school run by Cal Poly. While there are a few beaches here, more people go to the Bonny Doon beach, a clothes optional one or Bean Hollow state beach. The Davenport beach off of Davenport Landing road has some surf for the locals and those searching for waves up and down the coast. The local volunteer fire and rescue department had made many rescues of people who get trapped by the ocean at Panther Beach or fall down cliffs. They are a great local resource to have.
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