Originally home to ancestors of the Gabrielino Tongva Native Americans, and then to European settlers in the mid-1700s, the marshlands of Playa Vista have a long history. Like many of Los Angeles’ communities, the area was once the site of agriculture and dairy farms. It later transformed into a major hub of the then-thriving Southern California aircraft industry, serving as the headquarters of the Howard Hughes Aircraft Company from the 1940s to the 1980s (it was on this site where Hughes constructed his famous Spruce Goose aircraft). Today, Playa Vista contains a mix of residential, business and commercial developments, while maintaining a large amount of open space and parks. The restored Ballona Freshwater Marsh treats urban runoff from Playa Vista and is home to some breathtaking natural beauty. The area is also located within a mile of the ocean and in close proximity to many Westside attractions.