Cawston Ostrich Farm

Cawston Ostrich Farm was a nine-acre property in Southern California housing over 200 African ostriches that visitors could watch and interact with up close. The grounds included a gift shop and viewing areas where guests could observe and experience daily life among these large birds.

Edwin Cawston founded the farm in 1886 by importing 52 ostriches from South Africa, with 43 birds surviving the long journey to California. The venture's early success helped establish the location as a pioneer in organized tourism along the West Coast.

The farm was widely known for its staged riding demonstrations where trainers galloped on the backs of large birds in front of audiences. These performances made the location a sought-after destination for visitors wanting to witness such unusual spectacles firsthand.

The site was easily accessible via the Red Car trolley system, which had a stop built specifically to serve visitors to the location. This convenient access made it a popular outing destination for people from throughout the region.

The farm operated a mail-order business for ostrich feathers and related products that reached customers around the world. This commercial operation demonstrated how the business model extended well beyond the visits of local tourists.

Location: South Pasadena

GPS coordinates: 34.11250,-118.17300

Latest update: December 10, 2025 20:05