Located in the heart of the San Francisco peninsula, San Carlos is known as the "City of Good Living." Originally inhabited by the Costanos Indians, the town was part of the Rancho de las Pulgas land grant during the Spanish mission days. Incorporated in 1925, San Carlos is considered the birthplace of today's Silicon Valley, having been home to such firms as Varian, Ampex, and Dalmo-Victor. The town has also boasted one of the military's largest dog-training facilities, the Morse Seed Company, and a number of great theaters. Community values are strong here, with popular events such as the Home Town Days Parade and Festival, Art and Wine Faire, Hot Harvest Nights, and the biannual Chicken's Ball. Over the years, the city has worked to preserve its history and many of its early structures while also providing citizens with modern civic buildings and other amenities.