Historic Downtown Upland Circa 2003- 2007

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For a number of years this was the website for Historic Downtown Upland.
Content is from the site's 2003 -2007 archived pages.

The current website for Historic Downtown Upland is found at www.historicdowntownupland.org/.
If you haven't visited us in old town Upland, please come by and enjoy our shops, services, and restaurants.  Enjoy the feel of a small town, old-time community and the beautiful setting of our shopping district. 

 

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2007

 

 

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2006

 

12/2/2006 - 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. with Arts & Craft Fair continuing until 3PM
Christmas Parade
	Children's Christmas Parade
	A fantastic parade of Upland children, youth, adults, public officials, clubs, and schools! Come watch the parade with the whole family on the first Saturday in December. Following the parade we will be hosting the spectacular Art's & Craft Fair with a place to find that hard to find special gift, for that special person.

 

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2005

 

 

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2004

 

9/11/2004 - 9AM-3PM
Other Section
	All American Car & Truck Show
	Come join the fun at the All American Car & Truck Show on Saturday, September 11th. Bring the family and friends and make a day viewing hundreds of the finest cars & trucks around. There will be food, beer & wine garden, live band, contests, raffles, auctions and more. The car show is being put on by the Pomona Valley Corvette Association (www.pvca.org) to raise money for The Painted Turtle, an innovative camp and family care center for children with life-threatening illnesses. (www.thepaintedturtle.org) This is a great opportunity to help out a great organization and have fun at the same time. To make things even better, Main Street Upland is hosting a chili cook-off in the beer & wine garden to help raise funds. The entry fee is $30.00 and one gallon of chili for the Peoples Choice. For the official rules and application, go to the forms section of this site. This is Main Street’s first ICS sanctioned cook-off. ICS (International Chili Society) is a national organization that sets up rules and guidelines for chili cook-offs. To be in the sanctioned judging, a $42.00 annual membership to ICS is required. We would love to have you join us in competition for cash and trophy awards and to help out The Painted Turtle. If Cooking’s not your thing, then come on down for the samples. We look forward to seeing you. For more information Call 909-949-4499
10/23/2004
Other Section
	Oktoberfest
	Fun and exciting day filled with flavorful hot dogs, sausages, beer and contests with merchants throughout Historic downtown Upland taking part of the fun activities planned. Come and join us for our 1st annual Oktoberfest.
10/30/2004 - 5:30 to 8 pm
Other Section
	Scary-A-Fair
	Come join us for a fun Halloween night with games, treats, costume and pumpkin carving contests, -and while you're all decked out in your Halloween best, have your photo taken! Pictures $3 each. Admission is free. For more information contact Upland Recreation at 909/931-4280
11/14/2004 - 10AM-4PM
Other Section
	Bridal & Quinceanera Fair
	WEDDINGS: Before you say "I DO" consult the cast of experts assembled at Main Street Upland. Learn about all the current bridal trends including fashion, entertainment, florists, travel arrangement, caterers, photographers, hair salons, spas, wedding planners, reception locations, limo services, magnificent custom wedding cakes, and the finest in jewelry design. QUINCEANERA: Bring your beautiful daughters to plan one of their most gracious & memorable occasions as you introduce your child into society as a young lady coming of age. We provide an exciting atmosphere of activity yet relaxing & peaceful let us help you to build your dreams. You deserve thorough, personilized attention everytime...

 

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More Background on Historic Downtown Upland

 

An In-Depth Guide to the Community, Culture, and Charm

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Introduction

Nestled at the foothills of the San Gabriel Mountains, Historic Downtown Upland invites visitors and locals alike to experience a slice of authentic Southern Californian heritage. With its beautifully preserved architecture, vibrant event calendar, and a collection of independent businesses, downtown Upland stands as both a living museum and a modern hub for culture and commerce.

For newcomers, this guide introduces everything you should know about Historic Downtown Upland—its location, background, governance, historical evolution, notable businesses, community events, cultural significance, and the unique spirit that keeps it thriving today.

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Location and Geography

Historic Downtown Upland is located within the City of Upland, San Bernardino County, just north of Interstate 10 in Southern California’s famed “Inland Empire.” The district’s heart lies at 2nd Avenue and 9th Street.

Notable nearby cities include Ontario (to the south), Claremont (to the west), and Rancho Cucamonga (to the east). The area is accessible via:

• Metrolink’s San Bernardino Line (Upland Station)

• Short drives from major freeways (I-10, CA-210, and I-15)

• Local public transit

Proximity highlights:

• Ontario International Airport (12min drive)

• Claremont Colleges (15min drive)

• San Gabriel Mountains (20min north for hiking & recreation)

The downtown layout showcases signature California streetscape features: palm-lined sidewalks, period street lighting, storefronts from the early 1900s, and public art.

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Governance, Ownership, and Stewardship

Historic Downtown Upland is overseen by Historic Downtown Upland, Inc., a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that works in concert with the City of Upland, property owners, small business operators, and historic preservation societies.

Key Responsibilities:

• Organizing festivals and public events

• Coordinating historical preservation projects

• Supporting local businesses and attracting new ones

• Liaising with merchants and city officials

• Marketing and promoting the district regionally

• Grant applications for improvements & restoration

Their leadership is deeply rooted in community involvement, valuing the unique role the downtown plays in civic life, small business sustainability, and cultural education.

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A Living Timeline: From Citrus Capital to Cultural Crossroads

Indigenous & Spanish-Era Legacy

Before development, this region was home to the Tongva people, with rich agricultural traditions. Spanish colonization and the construction of missions along the El Camino Real introduced new crops, roads, and religious influence.

The Chaffey Brothers and the Citrus Boom

In the 1880s, Canadian engineers George and William Chaffey envisioned and built an agricultural colony using extensive irrigation from mountain snowmelt. Their planning laid the grid for today’s Upland, emphasized by the majestic and unusually broad Euclid Avenue, now a landmark.

Upland soon flourished as part of “the citrus belt,” famed for lemons, oranges, and stone fruits.

Incorporation and Urban Growth

• 1902: The area changes from “North Ontario” to “Upland.”

• 1906: Official incorporation as the City of Upland.

• Early institutions: Upland Grammar School (Frannie D. Noe), San Antonio Hospital, Carnegie Library, Atwood’s Department Store.

• Civic milestones: First fire hall, original City Hall, major post office, and community church openings.

The Madonna of the Trail

In 1929, the Madonna of the Trail statue was erected at the corner of Euclid & Foothill—a national monument to pioneer women and a major tourist draw.

The Golden Age

Downtown Upland from the 1920s to 1950s was a bustling hub for shopping, banking, entertainment (notably the Grove Theatre, established 1947), and civic pride. Annual parades, fairs, and the arrival of the railroad energized the downtown core.

Challenges and Revitalization

Like many Main Streets, Upland saw retailers move out with the rise of malls and highways during the 1970s–80s. However, fierce local preservation, robust volunteerism, and targeted city programs have ushered in rounds of rejuvenation—restoring the historic core while keeping pace with 21st-century needs.

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Business District: Independent Spirit, Unique Appeal

Unlike homogenized malls, Historic Downtown Upland boasts a colorful mosaic of independently owned enterprises:

Boutiques and Retail

• C&R Printing & Office Supply: Oldest continuously operated print shop

• Antique Emporium & Collectible Shops: Rotating treasures for hobbyists and interior decorators

• Art Galleries: Featuring regional artists, seasonal shows, and student exhibits

Dining, Cafés, and Bakeries

The downtown menus reflect Upland’s agricultural past:

• Farm-to-table eateries serving California classics with citrus notes

• Global cuisines (Italian trattorias, Asian bistros, taquerias)

• Cafés and bakeries with homemade pastries, lemon bars, vintage sodas

Examples include themed coffee houses, gourmet sandwich shops, and ice cream parlors that still make treats the old-fashioned way.

Specialty & Cultural Shops

• Vintage vinyl & music stores

• Boutique bookstores stocked with California histories and local interest titles

• Wellness studios for yoga, hair, and spa treatments

Nightlife and Breweries

Evenings bustle with taprooms, wine tastings, and live music at venues like the Grove Theatre and historic taverns.

Service Providers

From real estate and insurance offices to community banks, the district meets many professional and personal needs of locals.

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Events: The Pulse of Downtown

Downtown Upland’s calendar is lively year-round:

Major Annual Festivals

• Upland Lemon Festival: Launched in the 1990s, this renowned springtime celebration honors Upland's citrus heritage with food, parades, rides, artisan booths, classic car shows, and lemon-themed competitions.

• All American Car & Truck Show: Hundreds of classic vehicles, live music, and family fun supporting regional charities.

• Sweet Taste of Upland: Local bistros and wineries showcase the area’s culinary diversity, drawing foodies from afar.

• Oktoberfest: German-themed fare, craft brews, merchant contests, and live entertainment.

• Christmas Parade & Arts & Crafts Fair: Festive floats, local bands, and unique handmade gifts line the avenues each December.

• Scary-A-Fair: A favorite Halloween event with games, contests, and pumpkin carving.

• Market Nights: Weekly or monthly open-air street markets featuring farm-fresh produce, food trucks, and local artisans.

Insider Tip: Locals recommend attending during festival times for the most spirited experience.

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Awards and Accolades

While perhaps not internationally famous, Historic Downtown Upland is regionally celebrated. It’s highlighted in travel guides as one of Inland Empire’s best-kept secrets, recognized for:

• Historic preservation leadership.

• Successful grant-funded revitalization projects.

• Volunteer-driven community engagement.

• Media features in LA Times, Inland Valley Daily Bulletin, and local travel magazines.

Several restoration projects for the Carnegie Library and downtown streetscapes have received architectural and cultural commendations at the county and state levels.

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Local Legends, Anecdotes, and Noteworthy Sites

The Carnegie Library

A gift from philanthropist Andrew Carnegie, this historic building operated as both a civic hub and home to Upland’s archives. The city has invested heavily in its restoration, using it for events and educational exhibits.

Atwood’s Department Store

Opening in 1913, Atwood’s became a social and commercial anchor, now fondly remembered by older residents for its holiday window displays and customer service.

Grove Theatre

From 1947, this art-deco styled theatre hosted film premieres and today features a mix of live theatre, concerts, and community programs.

Citrus Packing Houses & Memorials

Remnants of the original lemon and orange packing industry—once the backbone of Upland's economy—can still be found east and west of the core. Several have been converted into event venues, quirky gyms, or specialty markets.

Madonna of the Trail

One in a series of monuments across the U.S., it’s not just a photo op but a powerful symbol of westward pioneer spirit, resilience, and the city’s connection to larger American history.

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Media & Press Coverage

Major events and business milestones are regularly highlighted in:

• Inland Valley Daily Bulletin

• San Bernardino Sun

• KTLA 5 (Los Angeles) lifestyle features

• Regional travel and heritage magazines

Writers praise Upland’s “city with a soul” feel, the friendliness of merchants, and its role as a “cultural crossroads” blending Route 66 legacy, vintage California, and multicultural influences. During the Lemon Festival, local TV and food bloggers converge to cover citrus-inspired menus and live contests.

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Diversity and Community: Who Comes to Downtown Upland?

Main Audiences

• Locals: Generational families, retirees, and young professionals

• Students and educators from nearby schools and colleges

• Heritage tourists: Seeking architecture, historic trails, and festivals

• Foodies and shoppers looking for indie finds and authentic eats

• Cyclists and runners: The area’s trails and “Le Tour De Foothills” ride draw athletic visitors

Community organizations ensure inclusivity, with efforts to diversify events and promote arts from Latino, Asian, and European heritage, reflecting the diversity of greater Upland.

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What Is Historic Downtown Upland Known For?

• Exemplary small-town hospitality in metropolitan SoCal

• Architectural charm—rare period storefronts and restored public spaces

• Annual Lemon Festival and other unique events

• Cultural and culinary diversity across markets, restaurants, and festivals

• Thriving independent business scene—especially antiques, cafés, and boutiques

• Commitment to preservation and adaptive reuse

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Cultural and Social Impact

While it offers nostalgia and history, Downtown Upland isn’t frozen in amber. The district is a vital community nerve center:

• Fundraising for local causes

• Charity walk/runs

• Public art projects

• Youth engagement (e.g., Rose Parade marching bands)

• Seasonal gathering place, combatting social isolation

Its continued existence pushes back against suburban sprawl, supporting sustainability in both commerce and social connections.

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Recent Developments & Future Goals

Thanks to effective local advocacy and city planning, the area is experiencing:

• Expanding residential developments and increased walkability

• Upgrades to public art and outdoor spaces

• Integration of digital tools for merchant marketing

• Drawing new generational entrepreneurs

Goals for the future include:

• Broader inclusion across Southern California’s diverse communities

• Becoming a premier creative hub for the region

• Even more robust event programming and educational outreach

• Digitization of historic archives for ongoing research and outreach

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Visitor’s Guide: How to Experience Historic Downtown Upland

Tips from Locals

• Arrive early on festival days—parking is easiest before 10am.

• Don’t skip the back alleys and side streets—hidden murals abound!

• Sample a lemon bar from a local bakery and a craft beer from a microbrewery.

• Start your walking tour at the Carnegie Library and loop past Grove Theatre, Euclid Avenue, and Madonna of the Trail.

Where to Park

• Free lots on 9th and A Street

• Street parking along 2nd Ave and 9th Street

• Additional overflow during events at designated city facilities

Family and Pet Friendly

Many venues and events are welcoming to families and leashed pets, especially during Market Nights and outdoor fairs.

Accessibility

Public spaces, sidewalks, and most storefronts have been updated to meet modern ADA standards, balancing historic preservation with accessibility.

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Historic Downtown Upland encapsulates the values and memories of generations, while continuously adapting and thriving as a communal gathering space. It’s an object lesson in the sustainable comeback of small-town America, proving that with community vision, anything old can be made refreshingly new again.

Visitors, residents, and entrepreneurs alike find in Upland a welcoming, enriching environment—one where every event, meal, and stroll along the palm-shaded streets brings you a step closer to the city’s vibrant heart.

Whether your interest lies in history, food, shopping, arts, or simply soaking in a welcoming community atmosphere, Historic Downtown Upland delivers an experience as unique as its past.

 

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