School History

In 1927, the Salesian Society purchased the Emeric estate as the site of a new development.  The original mansion became the living quarters and offices for the Salesian House of Studies, a high school seminary for future Salesians. Over the years, the spacious gardens and orchards were adapted for various structures. The present gymnasium was constructed in 1940 and the three-story classroom building in 1950. The student center building, which currently houses the cafeteria, Guidance Center, Student Activities Office, Campus Ministry Office and the Library was built in 1960.  That was the year the seminarians moved to Watsonville, California, and the school was opened to young men of West Contra Costa County. Salesian High School welcomed young women and became co-educational in 1989. Since its inception, Salesian students have gone on to many prominent colleges and universities, joining a worldwide alumni association number many thousands and a community of Salesian students from Europe, Asia, Africa, South America and Australia.