Many Valencia County families migrated to Barstow, California, in the 1930s, 1940s, and 1950s. So many came from Belen that Barstow became known as “Little Belen” or “Belen, California.” Historian Richard Melzer will present the history of this migration and its impact on the residents of both towns. He will then open the discussion to members of the audience who have memories to share of the connection between Belen and Barstow—a connection that remains strong to this day.
