Introducing Arcata
On a hill overlooking Humboldt Bay, Arcata was founded in 1850 by the Union Timber Company. Originally called Union Town, it was a base for nearby lumber camps. In the late 1850s when Bret Harte worked here as a journalist, the town became the setting for some of his Gold Rush-era stories. Today, Humboldt State University (HSU) has redefined Arcata as a college town.
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The aesthetic is decidedly scruffy, and posses of fun-loving carousing students roam downtown on weekend evenings. On the plaza keep your distance from the ragtag junkie punks. Arcata prides itself on its go-it-alone far-left politics. Indeed, the City Council passed an ordinance in April 2003, not only condemning the USA Patriot Act, but outlawing voluntary compliance with it. If you like to argue politics, you’re gonna love it here.
Last updated: Feb 17, 2009
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Thorn Tree forum discussion
Recent posts
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RE: West Coast Winter Drive
by markharf 15 August 2011
Your route does not follow the coast. I don't know what you're thinking, but it's not "sticking to coastal roads" past Arcata. Parts…
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West Coast Winter Drive
by ThisRobGuy 15 August 2011
Hi, My partner and I are planning a trip to the US and Canada in Jan/Feb and were looking to spend a couple of our 6 or so weeks driving…
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Re: Honeymoon on Oregon/California Coast -- feedback?
by samhandwich22 11 August 2011
You will find several interesting spots while driving down the 101, especially in California. Patricks point state park is beautiful,…
Hotels & Hostels in Arcata
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Lady Anne Inn
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Hotel Arcata
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