Creston: A leisurely pace and plenty of open space

While Monte Mills lived in San Luis Obispo for close to 20 years, he found Creston to be a better fit.

“North County people are rural-oriented,” said Mills, who has lived in Creston since 1991.

“It gets a little warm,” he added, “but evenings are so nice.”

Though it was once a thriving ranching community, today Creston — with a population of fewer than 100 — isn’t known for much commerce. But the 130-year-old town is a good place to escape the hustle of the modern world. With plenty of open space, it’s also a good place for horse owners like Mills.

For more than 40 years, Mills worked as a horseshoer until he retired in 2008. However, he continues to lead the Lucky Horseshoe Band, performing old-school country music across the county and beyond.

“We’ve got over 30 gigs lined up for the year,” said Mills, 68, who has performed for celebrities, future U.S. presidents and Cal Poly students for four decades.

This story was originally published August 18, 2014 at 2:26 PM with the headline "Creston: A leisurely pace and plenty of open space."