Near this spot, from October 20 to 23, 1769, Don Gaspar de Portolá and his land expedition, seeking Monterey Bay, camped for three days to rest those who were sick. Because of their rapid recovery, Father Crespi named the valley Cañada de la Salud. On December 10, 1774, Father Paloú, returning from the exploration of San Francisco Bay, paused here to offer prayers of thanksgiving for the miracle of restored health.
