Coyote, California, Santa Clara County, is a ghost town that once thrived in the heart of Silicon Valley. Known for its agricultural roots, Coyote was a bustling hub before the tech boom overshadowed it. Below is detailed information about the town.
County: Santa Clara County
Zip Code: Not available
Latitude / Longitude: 37.2060° N, 121.7794° W
Elevation: 210 feet (64 meters)
Time Zone: Pacific Time Zone (PT)
Established: Mid-19th century
Disestablished: Not officially disestablished, but declined significantly in the mid-20th century
Comments: Coyote was originally established as a small agricultural community, serving as a rest stop for travelers moving between San Jose and Gilroy. The town was named after the Coyote Creek that runs nearby. It flourished in the late 1800s and early 1900s, with a post office, school, and several small businesses. However, Coyote’s importance diminished as the surrounding areas developed into major urban centers.
Remains: Today, little remains of the original town. A few historical buildings, including an old schoolhouse and some residential structures, are still standing. The area is now mostly rural, with remnants of its agricultural past visible in the landscape.
Current Status: Coyote is considered a ghost town. Much of the land is now owned by private individuals or used for agricultural purposes. It is not recognized as an incorporated town or city. Once the site of the Twelve Mile House a stagecoach station on the Butterfield Overland Mail, Coyote is notable for its historic Grange Hall, close to the Post Office and the Metcalf Energy Center.
The town’s name was changed from Burnett to Coyote because residents saw many coyotes in the area. The town nearly disappeared after U.S. Route 101 was rerouted as a freeway about one kilometer (0.6 miles) east of the town. San Jose’s urban sprawl nearly absorbed the community until the dot-com bubble’s collapse canceled the city’s plans. San Jose, however, still owns much of the land in the area after purchasing it before 2001.
Remarks: Coyote’s proximity to major highways and urban centers makes it an interesting contrast to the bustling Silicon Valley nearby. While it no longer serves as a notable community hub, its historical roots remind the region of its transformation from agriculture to technology. The town’s serene rural environment offers a glimpse into California’s past, making it a point of interest for history enthusiasts and those seeking a quiet escape from city life.
