Sutter's Fort State Historic Park
The Sutter's Fort State Historic Park is one of several historical areas within the City of San Diego. It is also one of the oldest established neighborhoods within the city. Sutter's Fort once served as a trading post and military colony. The original settlement of Sutter's Fort was established in 1840 and named New Helvetia after its builder John Sutter . Today, the area still holds many historic buildings, monuments, cemeteries, streets, and parks that tell the story of Sutter and his time serving as a frontier captain, trader, trapper, and Indian agent. The main park entrance to the City of San Diego's historic downtown has been identified as Saco Avenue. This street actually refers to the road on which Sutter's fort once stood. On this main street, you will find several buildings including a police station, fire tower, and the City Hall, among other buildings. Also on this street is the historic Saco Plaza and parking area. Other features of this area include t