We're proud of our 200-year heritage. And today, Vallejo continues to be a friendly, active waterfront community that attracts innovative and hardworking people and businesses. This is reflected in Vallejo being ranked the hottest real estate market in the United States for the past twelve months. The City of Vallejo's story begins in 1844 when General Mariano G. Vallejo saw the promise of the area. Named after him and twice the site of the state capitol in the 1850s, Vallejo grew into an important shipping and naval center. Legend has it that Mare Island got its name after Gen. Vallejo drove a herd of horses across the Carquinez Strait. Established in 1854, Mare Island Naval Shipyard was the West Coast's first shipyard. Decommissioned in 1996, Mare Island is now home to more than 100 businesses and has become an industrial, commercial and residential engine for the Bay Area. A strong economy and affordable housing have meant new prosperity for Vallejo, as businesses and residents come to the city. Some are attracted by the beautifully restored Victorian homes and business fronts; others by the newer homes in the Northgate and Hiddenbrooke developments. The city recently earned Main Street designation, and as a result our downtown area has benefited from on-site training in effective commercial district revitalization, technical assistance, consulting services, networking activities, and site assessments from California Main Street. Waterfront and Mare Island redevelopment have become a community effort, with input from residents helping shape the future of what will become the most important economic generators for the city. The city's Ferry Terminal and ferry services have served as a model for the rest of the Bay Area, helping make Vallejo a transportation and commuter hub for the North Bay with over 1 million riders annually. Six Flags Marine World, restaurants and the Downtown Farmer's Market help make Vallejo the vibrant community it is today.