history of Pomona, Ca
The Story of Pomona, California
Pomona is a city in Los Angeles County, California, about 30 miles east of downtown Los Angeles. Its history is rich and diverse, spanning from Native American settlements to a modern, bustling city.
Early History
Native American Origins
Long before Pomona became a city, the area was home to Native American tribes. The Tongva people were the main group that lived in this region for thousands of years. They hunted, gathered plants, and farmed the land.
image sourced By Los Angeles - Own work, CC BY-SA 3.0
Spanish Exploration
In the late 1700s, Spanish explorers arrived in California. They set up missions and began to claim land. This period marked a significant change for the Native Americans and brought new settlers to the area.
Founding of Pomona
Origin of the Name
Pomona got its name in 1875 when people were deciding what to call the new town. Someone suggested "Pomona" after the Roman goddess of fruit. This name was chosen because the area was known for its fertile land, perfect for growing fruit.
City Incorporation
Pomona officially became a city in 1888. At this time, California was experiencing rapid growth as many people moved west looking for new opportunities. Pomona attracted farmers who wanted to grow citrus fruits in the rich soil.
Growth and Development
Early 20th Century
Citrus Industry
In the early 1900s, Pomona's citrus industry boomed. The city became known as an "urban orchard" due to the numerous orange and lemon groves in and around the city. This industry was crucial to Pomona's economy.
Pomona Valley Fair
The Pomona Valley Fair, later renamed the Los Angeles County Fair, started in 1922. This annual event became a significant attraction, bringing many visitors to the city and helping to establish Pomona's identity.
Post-World War II Era
Population Boom
After World War II ended in 1945, Pomona experienced significant growth. Many returning soldiers needed homes, leading to new housing developments. The city expanded as more people moved in from other parts of the country.
Economic Shifts
During this time, Pomona's economy diversified. While agriculture remained important, new industries came to the city. Factories and businesses opened, creating different types of jobs for residents.
Modern Pomona
Demographics
Today, Pomona is a diverse city with about 150,000 people. It's home to residents from many different cultural backgrounds, reflecting the changing face of Southern California.
Education
Education plays a significant role in modern Pomona. Cal Poly Pomona, a large university, brings many students to the city. Several other colleges in the area contribute to Pomona's reputation as an educational hub.
Cultural Heritage
While there aren't as many orange groves as in the past, Pomona still celebrates its agricultural heritage. The Los Angeles County Fair continues to be held in Pomona annually, keeping a connection to the city's history.
Challenges and Future Outlook
Like many cities, Pomona faces various challenges but is working to improve. The city is focusing on attracting new businesses, revitalizing its downtown area, and preserving its historical buildings. As Pomona moves forward, it balances honoring its past while adapting to the needs of its diverse, modern community.
Frequently Asked Questions About Pomona, CA
Is Pomona CA a nice place to live?
Pomona, CA offers a mix of urban and suburban living with diverse neighborhoods. It has a rich history, cultural diversity, and educational opportunities with Cal Poly Pomona nearby. Like many cities, it has its strengths and challenges. Some residents appreciate its community feel and proximity to Los Angeles, while others point out areas needing improvement. Overall, whether Pomona is a nice place to live depends on individual preferences and priorities.
Is Pomona CA expensive to live?
Compared to many parts of Los Angeles County, Pomona is generally considered more affordable. Housing costs, while still high by national standards, are lower than in many neighboring cities. However, the cost of living in Pomona is still above the national average, reflecting the higher costs typical of Southern California. Factors like housing, transportation, and general expenses contribute to the overall cost of living.
What is Pomona known for?
Pomona is known for several key features:
The Los Angeles County Fair, held annually at the Fairplex
Cal Poly Pomona, a well-regarded public university
Its historical connection to the citrus industry
The NHRA Auto Club Raceway, which hosts drag racing events
Its diverse community and cultural heritage
The Pomona Valley Hospital Medical Center, a major healthcare facility in the region
What is the ethnicity of Pomona?
Pomona is a diverse city with a mix of ethnicities. As of the last census data:
Hispanic or Latino: Approximately 70%
White (non-Hispanic): About 12%
Asian: Around 8%
African American: About 6%
Other ethnicities make up the remaining percentage
Please note that these percentages may have changed since the last update, and it's always best to check the most recent census data for the most accurate information.
Is Pomona a wealthy area?
Pomona is generally not considered a wealthy area compared to some other parts of Los Angeles County. It has a mix of income levels, with some middle-class neighborhoods and some areas facing economic challenges. The median household income in Pomona is typically below the Los Angeles County average. However, like many cities, Pomona has pockets of higher-income areas alongside more modest neighborhoods.
Is Pomona all female?
No, Pomona is not all female. This question might stem from confusion with Pomona College, a liberal arts college in nearby Claremont that was originally founded as a women's college but has been coed since 1837. The city of Pomona has a mixed population of all genders, with a fairly even split between males and females according to census data.
