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Salinas and the Salinas Valley offer a unique combination of climate, natural resources and people. The City of Salinas was born after Mexico seceded from Spain in 1822 and began granting rancho lands. Named for a nearby salt marsh, Salinas became the seat of Monterey County in 1872 and incorporated in 1874.Today the Salinas Valley is known as "The Salad Bowl of the World" for the production of lettuce, broccoli, mushrooms and strawberries, along with numerous other crops. The climate is also ideal for the floral industry and grape vineyards planted by world-famous vintners.Although agriculture forms an economic base, more than 100 manufacturing firms call Salinas home. Some of the largest employers in the area include: Dole Fresh Vegetable, the County of Monterey, Household Credit Services and Salinas Valley Memorial Hospital.Salinas’ hospitality blends yesterday’s charm with today’s modern conveniences. The California Rodeo, California International Airshow, and the world famous Steinbeck Festival are major attractions of our colorful and diverse city.Visitors can also explore the nearby Monterey Peninsula: the historic missions of San Jan Bautista, Soledad, Carmel and San Antonio de Padus, the world class wineries of South Monterey County and the beauty of nearby beaches and Pinnacles National Monument.