San Anselmo was originally inhabited by the Coast Miwok people, then was later settled by Europeans who established a sawmill and a railroad in the late 1800s. The town grew as a hub for agriculture and dairy farming, and by the early 20th century, it had become a popular destination for tourists seeking the area’s natural beauty and hot springs. Today, San Anselmo retains much of its small-town charm, with a bustling downtown area filled with unique shops, restaurants, and art galleries.