Whittier, city (1990 pop. 77,671), Los Angeles co., S Calif.; in an oil area; inc. 1898. Mainly residential, it has food processing and plants that manufacture transportation equipment; machinery; clay, steel, paper, metal, and rubber products; elevators; consumer goods; electronic and electromedical equipment; and furniture. Several companies have their administrative headquarters there. Founded by Quakers in 1887, it was the hometown of President Richard M. Nixon. The city is the seat of Whittier College. A state historical park in Whittier contains the mansion of the last Mexican governor of California, Pío de Jesus Pico.
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