On May 1, 1927, Edward Alvin Toney, a key figure in the development of Valencia and a longtime executive with Newhall Land and Farming Co., was born in Los Angeles.

Toney’s story is closely tied to the early history of Agua Dulce and Vasquez Rocks, where his family established deep roots in the early 20th century.

His great-uncle, Henry Krieg, a miner from Cripple Creek, Colorado, moved to Agua Dulce in 1909 and worked for the Sterling Borax Co., helping extract borates from nearby Tick Canyon. Krieg’s job involved constructing timber supports inside the borax mines.

In 1910, he homesteaded land at Vasquez Rocks, laying the foundation for the Toney family’s presence in the area.

Years later, members of the family built what became known as the Toney Residence between 1933 and 1938. Constructed by Krieg’s nephew, Ray A. Toney, and great-nephew Edward, the home became a central part of the family’s life in Agua Dulce. Edward Toney spent much of his childhood there.

The residence holds historical significance as one of the last remaining structures tied to early agriculture, recreation, tourism and film production in the Vasquez Rocks area, which served as a popular filming location throughout the early 20th century.

The County of Los Angeles leased the property from the Toney family in 1964 and later purchased it in 1967. It was used as a park ranger residence until 2005, then converted to storage. In 2009, the building was restored and as of 2015, housed the park staff offices.

Growing up during the Great Depression, Toney was raised in modest circumstances but went on to build a successful career. A World War II Navy veteran, he became an engineer and joined Newhall Land in 1962, where he worked for 25 years.

Toney played a pivotal role in shaping Valencia into a master-planned community. His work included overseeing the development of neighborhoods, shopping centers, sewer systems, early roadways, flood control infrastructure and landscaping.

Toney was also involved in early land entitlement efforts, helping secure approvals necessary for Valencia’s growth. According to family friends, one of his proudest accomplishments was negotiating a critical water easement that helped make the community’s development possible.

Colleagues described him as dedicated and hands-on. Former Newhall Land CEO Tom Lee recalled Toney’s work ethic, noting he would personally respond to emergencies, even working late into the night during storms.

Beyond his professional achievements, Toney was known for his love of the outdoors and devotion to family. He enjoyed fishing, hiking and skiing, and spent time at his cabin in Independence, California.

He also made lasting contributions to preserving local history. Before his death, Toney donated a large collection of historical documents and photographs to the Santa Clarita Valley Historical Society, Los Angeles County and the Bancroft Library at UC Berkeley.

The collection included early Vasquez Rocks homesteading records and images of film productions spanning from 1909 to 1970.

Toney died at age 75 in Valencia following complications from surgery. He is remembered as a self-made man whose work helped shape modern Valencia and whose family legacy remains rooted in the history of Agua Dulce and Vasquez Rocks.

To read yesterday’s Today in SCV History, click here.

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