The historic town of Mendocino has been carefully preserved. Originally a logging community for New England settlers, the economy took a nose dive in the 1940s. The revitalization began when Bill Zacha founded the Mendocino Art Center in 1959, encouraging a flock of artists and hippies to the area. The hippie-vibe of the town is firmly ingrained in the culture - pot dispensaries, nomadic musicians and Bernie Sanders posters are commonplace. The Victorian buildings remain intact and are now home to a number of businesses including hotels, eateries, chocolate shops, bookstores and yoga studios.