Pomona

History of Pomona's Origins

The history of Pomona is rooted in an era when these lands were part of the vast Mexican land grant known as "Rancho San Jose." The modern phase of the city's development began in the second half of the 19th century, when the region began attracting the attention of American developers and settlers.

Founding and the Choice of Name

The official date of the city's incorporation is January 6, 1888. Notably, the name for the new settlement was chosen through a contest held in 1875. The winning entry was "Pomona" — named after the ancient Roman goddess of fruit trees and abundance. This name proved prophetic, as it perfectly reflected the region's future specialization.

Key Factors of Establishment

Pomona's rapid evolution from a small settlement into a prosperous city was driven by a fortunate combination of several factors:

• Transportation Accessibility: A decisive role was played by the construction of the Southern Pacific Railroad, which connected the valley with Los Angeles and other markets.
• Water Resources: The discovery of artesian water and the development of irrigation systems allowed the arid lands to be transformed into flourishing groves.
• Geography: A prime location in a fertile valley protected by mountains created an ideal microclimate for agriculture.

Early Economy and Culture

In its first decades, Pomona established itself as a powerful agrarian center. The economy was built on extensive vineyards and citrus groves. The city quickly became known as the "Queen of the Citrus Belt," and the profits from orange and lemon cultivation attracted wealthy residents, contributing to the region's rapid cultural and architectural development in the early 20th century.

Major Milestones in Pomona's History

Below is a brief chronology of the events that shaped the modern face of the city, from a ranch to an educational and cultural center.

Ranch Period and Founding

• 1837: The Governor of California grants the "Rancho San Jose" land grant to Ygnacio Palomares and Ricardo Vejar, the territory on which the city would later emerge.
• 1875: The name "Pomona" is chosen through a contest, and the sale of the first land plots for development begins.
• 1887: The arrival of the Santa Fe railroad connects the settlement to the national transportation network, causing a sharp increase in population.
• 1888: Pomona is officially incorporated as a city on January 6.

Era of Prosperity and Infrastructure Development

• 1893: The first citrus fair is organized, establishing the city's status as a regional agricultural leader.
• 1922: The first L.A. County Fair is held, becoming one of the largest events of its kind in the United States.
• 1931: The Fox Theater opens, a magnificent example of Art Deco architecture and a cultural hub for the city.
• 1938: The history of California State Polytechnic University, Pomona (Cal Poly Pomona) begins at the site of the former Voorhis School.
• 1956: Cal Poly University officially moves to the site of W.K. Kellogg's former Arabian horse ranch.

The Modern Era

• 1962: Pomona Mall opens in the city center — the first pedestrian shopping street west of the Mississippi River.
• 1994: The Arts Colony is established, breathing new life into the historic city center through artist galleries and lofts.
• 2014: Construction of a major transit center is completed, integrating bus routes and Metrolink rail service.

Stages of Development and Transformation in Pomona

The development of Pomona is a story of a quiet ranch transforming into a dynamic urban center. Each milestone has left its mark on the city's architecture, economy, and way of life. Below are the key stages that defined the modern face of the region.

• The Railroad Revolution (Late 1880s).
  The arrival of transcontinental railroads (Southern Pacific and Santa Fe) acted as a catalyst for growth. This event turned an isolated settlement into an important logistics hub, giving local farmers access to Eastern U.S. markets and ensuring an influx of new residents.
• Status as the "Citrus Capital" (Early 20th Century).
  During this period, Pomona reached the peak of its economic prosperity, boasting one of the highest per capita incomes in the U.S. The wealth generated from the export of oranges and lemons allowed for the construction of grand Victorian mansions and public buildings that today form the city's historical heritage.
• Establishment of the L.A. County Fair (1922).
  The acquisition of land for the fairground complex (Fairplex) permanently secured the city's status as a regional entertainment center. This event stimulated the development of tourism infrastructure and the road network, attracting millions of visitors annually.
• Post-War Industrialization (1940s–1950s).
  Following World War II, the city's economy diversified. Industrial plants and factories (including those in the aerospace industry) replaced the groves, leading to the construction of new residential neighborhoods for workers and changing the demographic makeup of the population.
• Emergence as a University Town (Mid-20th Century).
  The development of California State Polytechnic University, Pomona (Cal Poly Pomona) and Western University of Health Sciences transformed the city into an educational hub. The influx of students and faculty breathed new energy into cultural life and stimulated the service sector.
• The Urban Planning Experiment (1962).
  The creation of a pedestrian mall in the city center was a bold attempt to modernize the urban environment. Although the project faced difficulties in subsequent decades, it laid the foundation for a focus on pedestrian zones and public spaces that continues to this day.
• Cultural Revitalization (1990s–Present).
  The creation of the Arts Colony was a response to the decline of the historic center. Converting old warehouses and shops into galleries, lofts, and music venues not only preserved the architectural heritage but also made Pomona a magnet for creative youth from across Southern California.

Architectural Identity and Urban Planning

Pomona's architecture serves as a visual chronicle of its development: from a wealthy agricultural center to a modern university city. The urban fabric combines the grand mansions of citrus tycoons, Art Deco commercial buildings, and mid-20th-century modernist experiments.

The Era of "Citrus Wealth": Victorian Style (Late 19th Century)

The early period of prosperity, when profits from orange groves were immense, left the city a rich heritage of Victorian architecture. Wealthy residents built homes designed to showcase their status.

• Styles: Queen Anne, Eastlake, Folk Victorian.
• Iconic Area: Lincoln Park Historic District. This district, listed on the National Register of Historic Places, preserves many wooden mansions with turrets, wrap-around porches, and intricate trim built before 1900.

Urban Expansion: Eclecticism and Bungalows (Early 20th Century)

With the growth of the middle class in the early 1900s, the urban planning focus shifted toward more functional yet aesthetic housing. During this time, Pomona was actively developed in the style of the Arts and Crafts movement.

• Styles: Craftsman, California Bungalow, Colonial Revival.
• Key Features: Low-pitched roofs, wide eaves, and the use of natural stone and wood. The Wilton Heights neighborhood is a prime example of development from this period.

The Golden Age and Art Deco (1920s–1930s)

In the interwar period, the city center was transformed, filled with monumental public and commercial buildings. Architecture began to reflect optimism and technological progress.

• Styles: Spanish Colonial Revival, Art Deco, Streamline Moderne.
• Iconic Building: Fox Theater Pomona (1931). This theater is the city's Art Deco jewel, featuring a distinctive tower, neon signage, and a luxurious interior. It became a symbol of the cultural life of that era.

Modernism and Urban Experiments (1950s–1960s)

After World War II, Pomona became a testing ground for new urban planning ideas. The desire to compete with new shopping malls led to bold solutions in the city center.

• Styles: Mid-Century Modern, Brutalism.
• Urban Planning Project: The creation of Pomona Mall (1962) — a pedestrian shopping zone on Second Street. This was an attempt to integrate the shopping mall concept into the existing city grid, decorated with modernist fountains and sculptures.

Modern Era: Revitalization and Adaptive Reuse

In recent decades, the architectural focus has shifted toward preserving and reimagining historical heritage. Old industrial and commercial spaces are being given new life.

• Trend: Loft districts and art spaces.
• Example: Pomona Arts Colony. Historic brick buildings in the city center have been converted into galleries, artist studios, and music venues, preserving the historic facades while completely transforming the interiors.

Distinguished Personalities of Pomona

Pomona has been the birthplace and workplace of many talented individuals whose names are known far beyond California. The city's history is closely intertwined with the lives of artists, athletes, and philanthropists.

• Will Keith Kellogg (1860–1951) — Industrialist and Philanthropist.
  The tycoon, famous for creating the breakfast cereal empire, played a key role in the city's history. In 1925, he established a renowned Arabian horse ranch here. He later donated these lands to the state, which served as the foundation for California State Polytechnic University, Pomona (Cal Poly Pomona).
• Millard Sheets (1907–1989) — Artist and Architect.
  A Pomona native and one of the most influential figures in 20th-century American art. He was a leader of the "California Scene" watercolor movement. Sheets also designed many iconic buildings in the region, including the Fine Arts Center on the Fairplex grounds.
• Tom Waits (born 1949) — Musician, Composer, and Actor.
  A legendary figure in experimental music, known for his unique gravelly voice and profound lyrics. Waits was born in Pomona, and the imagery of small-town America often found in his songs was partly inspired by the Southern California atmosphere of his youth.
• Jessica Alba (born 1981) — Actress and Entrepreneur.
  The global film star, known for roles in "Sin City" and "Fantastic Four," was born in Pomona. In addition to her successful acting career, she has become an influential businesswoman as the founder of The Honest Company.
• Shane Mosley (born 1971) — Professional Boxer.
  The famous athlete nicknamed "Sugar," who was born and raised in Pomona. Mosley became a world champion in three weight classes and etched his name in boxing history as one of the most technical fighters of his era.
• Mark McGwire (born 1963) — Baseball Player.
  An outstanding Major League Baseball (MLB) player born in Pomona. He gained fame for his powerful hitting and his historic home run chase during the 1998 season.