Clayton: Rich with tradition

CLAYTON, Calif. (KTVU) - Located at the foot of Mount Diablo in Eastern Contra Costa County, Clayton is a charming city with a rich history.

It was founded in 1857 by Joel Clayton, a successful businessman and landowner who helped the area prosper during the coal mining boom.

Over the years, mining turned into farming and ranching. In 1964 as ranches were replaced by homes, residents voted to incorporate the city.

Clayton is now home to more than 12,000 people and its history still reflects in its buildings. The city's post office, established in 1861, is one of California's oldest, still operating today. Several businesses downtown are also modern renditions of Clayton's Victorian-era mining town architecture.

Clayton is known for its Mediterranean climate and warm, dry summers that often peak in the 80's in July.

The city is also home to a popular bocce ball park, which has just been remodeled and hosts leagues that attract thousands of players every season.