Settlement in Lafayette began in 1846 and by 1857 had its own US Post Office, named Lafayette. Just East of the Berkeley Hills, it now has a population of about 27,000. Lafayette is an upscale community divided by Hwy 24 and known for its restaurants and shopping. The Lafayette Reservoir and Park is a beautiful retreat just West of downtown. Lafayette does have an interesting history and culture. During the Iraqi, War citizens started planting crosses for each American death on the hillside across from the local BART station, which has become an icon of the community.