In turn-of-the-last-century California, well before Hollywoods glory days, climate and oranges were the main attractions. A $2 train ride brought visitors by the thousands to the Golden State. Many stayed. Among them was Frank H. Ayres, who had come from Ohio with his wife and young son Donald to explore land development opportunities. After successfully buying eight small ranches in the Mid-Wilshire area for his Ohio employer, Frank formed his own company- Frank H. Ayres & Son- to develop land throughout L.A. County. It was 1905. And a proud legacy- a bona fide family tradition- had begun. The Ayres brand of high-quality property development would soon make its mark on Southern California. more... See more text