By about 1200 A.D. the Kucamongan Native Americans established a village-like clustering around the land mass we know as Red Hill. The Kucamongan people were part of the Gabrielino culture, and anthropologists believe that, at their peak, the Gabrielinos existed as one of the largest concentrations of indigenous peoples on the North American continent.

The Native Americans existed undisturbed until the 18th century when Spanish explorers and missionaries traveled throughout the Southern California area and began establishing missions and ranchos. By 1839, California was a state of Mexico and on March 3, 1839 governor Juan Bautista Alvarado granted 13,000 acres of land around the area called Cucamonga to Tubercio Tapia, a dedicated soldier, smuggler and politician. Using Indian labor, Tapia constructed a well-fortified adobe home on Red Hill and raised great herds of cattle. Tapia also began a successful winery, portions of which stand today known to us as the Thomas Winery.

In 1848 California was annexed by the United States and became a state in 1850. During the 19th century the communities of Alta Loma, Cucamonga and Etiwanda began to take shape. In 1864 President Abraham Lincoln signed into existence a post office that was located at the base of Red Hill. Speculators and investors recognized the area's potential and began to dig and develop irrigation channels and tunnels from the mountains. In 1887 the Santa Fe Railroad extended through the area setting the stage for growth. Agriculture drew residents to develop vineyards and citrus groves. Produce from the Tri-Communites was shipped around the world.

Throughout the early 20th century the area continued to develop as an agricultural center. However, as growth continued in Southern California, new industries developed and more residents arrived. By the late 1960's this area was becoming more residential and less agricultural. During the 1970's residential growth continued unabated and was directed by the County of San Bernardino. Local residents wanted a greater say in how the community developed and in 1977 the voters of Alta Loma, Cucamonga and Etiwanda approved the measure to form the City of Rancho Cucamonga.

For a more thorough history of Rancho Cucamonga, please visit the history section in the City Website.

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