Rooted in the Valley: The Hagopians escaped the Armenian Genocide to thrive in the San Joaquin Valley

Jan 1 2024

JANUARY 1, 2024

• by Jesse Vad, SJV Water

Richard Hagopian’s family was one of thousands that escaped the Armenian Genocide in the early 1900s and forged a new path in the fertile San Joaquin Valley.

It wasn’t an easy life, especially after his father died, leaving Richard the man of the family while still in his teens. But hard work, a successful music career and a beloved family restaurant in Visalia, sustained the family and built a future for new generations.

Now in his 80s, Richard has come back to farming. Whether his sons will keep it going is up to them. “I can’t tell the future,” he said.

* This is the fifth in SJV Water’s series of videos called “Rooted in the Valley,” featuring small family farmers who continue to work the land in spite of all the challenges they face – especially water.

Disclaimer: This article was contributed and translated into English by Karapet Navasardian. While we strive for quality, the views and accuracy of the content remain the responsibility of the contributor. Please verify all facts independently before reposting or citing.

Direct link to this article: https://www.armenianclub.com/2024/01/02/rooted-in-the-valley-the-hagopians-escaped-the-armenian-genocide-to-thrive-in-the-san-joaquin-valley/