Welcome to Penngrove:
A Town Rooted in History and Heart

Nestled in the gentle rolling hills of Sonoma County, Penngrove is a small but storied town that offers visitors a rare glimpse into the authentic charm of early California—where the past and present dance together in the shade of redwoods and beneath wide country skies.

From Native Lands to Early Settlements

Long before it was called Penngrove, this area was home to the Coast Miwok people, who lived off the land’s abundant natural resources, gathering acorns, fishing in nearby creeks, and living in harmony with the oak woodlands and grassy meadows. Their legacy lives on in the landscape, which still bears the marks of their careful stewardship.

In the mid-1800s, as California’s Gold Rush era swept through the region, settlers began moving into Sonoma County, drawn by the promise of fertile farmland and opportunity. The region around Penngrove was especially attractive for its rich soils and ideal climate, perfect for raising livestock and growing crops.

The Birth of Penngrove

The town itself began to take shape in the late 19th century, officially named Penngrove in 1870 after the Pennsylvania roots of some of its early settlers and the groves of native trees that dotted the region.

With the arrival of the San Francisco and North Pacific Railroad in the 1870s, Penngrove quickly became a bustling stop on the route between Petaluma and Santa Rosa. Local farmers could now ship poultry, eggs, dairy, and grain to San Francisco markets with ease. Penngrove soon developed a reputation as a poultry and egg production hub, and by the early 20th century, it was known across the state for its booming agriculture.

The World’s Egg Basket

By the 1920s, Penngrove and surrounding areas were considered part of the “The World’s Egg Basket.” Small family farms, many of them Italian-American, dotted the hills, raising chickens and producing millions of eggs. The town grew around this industry, with a general store, post office, schoolhouse, and churches serving the close-knit community.

Though the poultry industry declined in the mid-20th century, its legacy still shapes the rural character and agricultural pride of Penngrove today.

A Town That Time Didn’t Rush

Unlike many towns that transformed into modern cities, Penngrove retained its rural charm and slower pace of life. While neighboring Santa Rosa and Petaluma expanded, Penngrove remained a quiet refuge. Its Main Street—lined with lovingly preserved historic buildings—reminds visitors of a bygone era.

Historic structures like the Penngrove Community Church (built in 1898) and the former bank building from the 1920s (now a local landmark) continue to anchor the town’s identity. The community's pride in its heritage can be seen in the many restored facades, vintage signage, and family-run businesses that dot the downtown strip.

A Vibrant Community Spirit

Today, Penngrove is home to a vibrant and diverse community that embraces both its historic roots and creative present. It’s a place where farmers, artists, musicians, chefs, and entrepreneurs come together to create a town experience unlike any other.

Annual events like the Penngrove Parade and Celebration, held the first Sunday of every July for Independence Day, bringing locals and visitors together in a joyful celebration of small-town life, complete with floats, vintage cars, and a festive barbecue.

In recent years, the town has seen a cultural revival. Boutique shops, farm-to-table dining, and artisanal markets have taken root—many housed in beautifully restored historic buildings. New concepts like Odd Cookie, Third Key Maker Space and The Penngrove Experience (a rotating celebrity-curated destination space that’s currently in development) are redefining what a small-town visit can mean.

Discover Penngrove for Yourself

Whether you're drawn by the nostalgia of country life, the creative spirit of its modern makers, or simply the desire to sip a cup of coffee on a quiet porch with views of the Sonoma hills, Penngrove welcomes you with open arms.

It’s not just a place to visit—it’s a place to remember.