Chapter History

History of Alliklik Chapter, NSDAR

The chapter name "Alliklik" was chosen because the Allikliks were the native Indians of the Santa Clarita Valley. Little is known or has been written about them. A few references bypassing Spanish explorers, some scant Mission records, and brief archaeological evidence have gradually put together a picture of a friendly, hospitable, gentle, peace-loving people who lived in harmony with one another and with the land. The Alliklik Indians led Don Gaspar de Portola over the pass in 1767, and this is believed to be when the first white man entered the valley. The Allikliks lived in four rancherias; the largest was near Castaic Junction. Their homes were reed huts, clustered in groups of eight or ten, making up a village of 25 or so people. There were probably no more than five hundred Allikliks alive at any one time since their arrival here in 500 AD. The last of this proud race vanished from the face of the earth before 1920.

The Alliklik Chapter, NSDAR, was organized on January 8, 1976. The organizing meeting was held in the Safari Room of the Newhall Bowl restaurant. Thirteen members signed the organizing papers; four members were transfers from other chapters, and nine were new members. During the following year, 10 more members’ names were added to the chapter's membership list making a total of 23 charter members.