Eventually, Bard and other major landowners in the Santa Paula and Port Hueneme area convinced the Southern Pacific RR that sufficient traffic would be generated to warrant constructing a branch. While the right of way was being secured, Chinese grading crews and Irish track gangs began arriving in Saugus around mid April, 1886. After several interuptions, work on the line was begun in earnest by the end of the summer. The hatchery is located east of the city limits on Fish Hatchery Road. This is a state run, working facility.
Visitors can view the long fish ponds on self-guided tours.
No fishing allowed. Inside, visitors will find displays, videos, models, games, photographs, and traditional exhibits relating to the hunt for black gold,oil explorations, particularly in the local area. Art and history exhibits are also provided. Subsequently, the facility has become the home of a world renowned collection of antique airplanes. The hometown airshows are a popular community event with considerable financial impact on local charities.