The City of Upland boasts a rich history that adds to its historic charm. Originally inhabited by the Tongva people, the area later saw development and a booming agricultural community in the 1880s, when the Chaffey brothers, Canadian-born entrepreneurs, acquired large tracts of land in the region and developed irrigation systems that now includes the cities of both Upland and Ontario. Their goal was to form a model colony and the brothers are credited for laying out the 200-foot wide Euclid Avenue that connects Upland to Ontario.   

The Chaffees were succeeded by the Ontario Land and Improvement Company, which purchased the northerly portion of the colony in 1887.  They renamed the area to the “Town of Magnolia”, although it was more popularly known by residents at the time as “North Ontario”.  In 1902, this northerly area withdrew from the Ontario colony and sought to grow as their own city. The area was formerly incorporated as the City of Upland in 1906.

At the time of incorporation, agriculture, particularly Upland’s well-renowned lemon groves, became a foundation of the early local economy.  This early lemon heritage is honored today in the City’s seal and through popular events in the City, such as the Lemon Festival. Today, Upland is a thriving city that balances its rich agricultural heritage with modern suburban development, while preserving its historical landmarks and community spirit.

Additional information on Upland History can be found through through the Upland Public Library and the Cooper Regional History Museum.

In the 1980s, community interest in historic preservation and the potential loss of valuable cultural resources grew in public appeal. Residents within the area founded Upland Heritage (originally known as the Upland Historical Preservation Society) in 1989 to raise awareness of the importance of preserving the City’s cultural and historic heritage.  The City of Upland undertook the creation of a Historic Resources Survey to evaluate the potential of historic resources, categorize the properties that were eligible for historic designation or as a contributing property to a historic district.  The City Council formally adopted the survey in 1991, which served as a precursor to the adoption of the City’s first Historic Preservation Ordinance in 1993.  The ordinance established policies and procedures for the designation, preservation, restoration, rehabilitation, and demolition of historic structures in efforts to preserve the City’s cultural and historic heritage.

Today, the City boasts 9 unique locally designated historic districts and maintains a local register of historic and cultural resources with over 580 properties.  Additionally, the City has resources on the National and State of California historic registers, including:

What is a Historic Resource?

A historic resource is a building, site, structure, object, or district that is considered significant in history, architecture, archaeology, engineering, or culture, usually meaning it holds important value to a community's past and is eligible for listing on a local, state, or national historic register.

A historic district is a a group of buildings, sites, or other properties that are significant for their historical or architectural value.  This grouping typically contribute to the same historic character and share the same historic period of significance/time period of construction. 

What are the criteria to be eligible for designation as a local historic resource?

The City of Upland's Municipal Code, Section 17.26.100(F) contains 7 criteria that a property or grouping of properties are reviewed under to determine eligibility for addition to the City's local historic register.  Only one criteria must be met.  These include:

1. It embodies distinguishing architectural characteristics, valuable to the study of a period, style, method of construction, or the use of indigenous materials or craftsmanship.

2.  It exemplifies, symbolizes, or manifests elements of the cultural, social, economic, political, or architectural history of the city.

3.  It is identified with historic persons or with important events in local, state, or national history.

4.  It is representative of the work or product of a notable builder, designer, or architect.

5.  Its unique location or singular physical characteristics represent an established and familiar visual feature of a neighborhood.

6.  It contributes to the continuity or character of a visually or thematically cohesive street, neighborhood, or area.

7.  It has integrity as a natural or manmade environment that strongly contributes to the well-being of the people of the community.

What are the benefits to being designated as a historic resource?

• Eligibility to participate in the Mills Act program, a property tax incentive that encourages the preservation and rehabilitation of historic properties.
• The ability to utilize the California State Historical Building Code.
• Recognition and distinction, plaques, awards, or other symbols of recognition.
• Flexibility on parking requirements, when projects meet qualifications.
• Preserving the historic character of buildings for future generations.
• Potential for higher property values due a high demand for properties with historic character and the declining supply within Southern California.