Claremont

Like the other communities in the region, the area of Claremont was first inhabited by Serrano Indians. However, here, a Serrano village has been discovered just northeast of Route 66 (Foothill Boulevard) and Indian Hill Boulevard. Much of the area within Claremont became part of the Rancho San Jose in 1834. Eventually, the coming of […]

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Bagdad

The former town site of Bagdad was located approximately eight miles west of Amboy and was founded in 1883. Primarily constructed to serve the mining towns surrounding it, it survived into the 1950’s with a cafe, motel, service station, and garage serving Route 66 travelers. It’s primary claim to fame is that it holds the

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Essex

Essex is a small desert town along National Old Trails Highway/Route 66 and one of the many desert towns that was by-passed with the construction of Interstate 40.  It once was an important stop for the railroad.  Look for the old water well that was built by the Automobile Club of Southern California.  The well

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Western America Railroad Museum

The Museum is dedicated to sharing the history of railroading in the Pacific Southwest.  It features both indoor and outdoor displays and is popular with railroad enthusiasts.  Indoor displays include timetables, uniforms and other railroad memorabilia.  Several locomotives and rail cars are located outside. 685 North First Street Barstow CA 92311 760.256.WARM Website: www.barstowrailmuseum.org

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Desert Discovery Center

This 7000 square foot museum is surrounded by 12 acres of desert land with native desert plants and animals.  The Center is the home to the Old Woman Meteorite – the second largest meteorite found in the United States.  The Museum sponsors many activities for children. 831 Barstow Road Barstow CA 92311 760.252.6060 Website:  www.desertdiscoverycenter.com

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Needles Regional Museum

Located right across the street from the El Garces Harvey House, the Needles Regional Museum displays many artifacts from the area in one large room.  The museum operates a thrift store adjacent to the Museum.  Make sure and check the hours of operation as the Museum is closed during the hot summer months. 929 Front

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Cooper Regional History Museum

The Museum is dedicated to a better understanding of the history and culture in the communities of Upland, Ontario, Montclair, Mr. Baldy and Rancho Cucamonga.  The museum is housed in a 1937 Art Moderne style building that was once the Ontario-Cucamonga Fruit Exchange.  The Museum sponsors many cultural events throughout the year. 217 E A

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Monrovia

Monrovia was formed from a portion of the Rancho Azusa de Duarte on the east, and the Rancho Santa Anita to the west. In 1884, William N. Monroe purchased land and formed the Monrovia Land and Water Company in 1886. Lots began being sold on May 17 of that year, centered around what are now

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