We are proud to present another episode of the Did You Know video series featuring Second District Supervisor Jesse Armendarez who shares a fun fact about one of our community’s most treasured historic homes.
The María Merced Williams and John Rains house in Rancho Cucamonga was built in 1860 and had a natural way to stay cool. It was one of the first homes in California to use flowing spring water under the house to lower the temperature inside.
In 1971, San Bernardino County acquired the home with support from local residents who wanted to preserve it. Today, it remains an important part of our local history and an early example of innovative architecture.
Discover even more to love about San Bernardino County by visiting love.sbcounty.gov.
Additional County Update News – Feb. 19, 2026
- First major winter storm brings snow to San Bernardino County mountains
- Code Enforcement and Public Works partner to keep county roads safe
- Yuhaaviatam of San Manuel Nation supports upgrades at Pacific Village housing campus
- A Valentine’s Day to remember: 72 love stories sealed in style
- Santa Ana River Trail ribbon-cutting ceremony celebrates milestone in 110-mile project
- Board to hold Feb. 24 meeting in Highland
- Classic Characters come to life during March at County Library branches
- A healthy partnership: Preschool Services and Public Health provide essential health services to children in Head Start and Early Head Start
- San Bernardino County Human Resources receives statewide recognition for Rapid Hire Program
- Music for the Future: Finding voice and healing through song at M.A.P. San Bernardino
- Did You Know: María Merced Williams and John Rains house
- Submit your photos and videos of the county’s destinations, nature and cityscapes
- San Bernardino County destinations: Oak Glen Preserve
- San Bernardino County history: The story of San Bernardino County
- Things to do in San Bernardino County
- Pet of the Week: Kodah