This week’s history column focuses on the contributions of Isaac Williams and his impact on the development of Rancho Santa Ana del Chino, present-day’s Chino Hills and Pomona Valley.
Williams was born in Pennsylvania on Sept. 19, 1799, and spent his early years in his home state as well as Ohio. In 1826, he traveled west to New Mexico and Arizona where he worked as a fur trapper. He arrived in California in 1832 and became a successful merchant in Los Angeles. He later became known as “Julian or “Don Julian” by Los Angeles locals.
On November 24, 1836, Williams married María de Jesus Lugo, a daughter of Don Antonio María Lugo, owner of Rancho San Bernardino. Together, Isaac and María lived in Rancho Santa Ana del Chino. Lugo deeded Williams a portion of the ranch and gave his son-in-law 4,000 head of cattle. Williams proved to be a talented rancher. He built a large adobe home described to be “the largest and best arranged private home in California at that time.” He raised livestock, had a large vineyard and built a small mill for grinding flour.
Williams had a reputation for generosity and hospitality. During the Gold Rush, as thousands of weary travelers came across his ranch on their journey, Williams provided food and aid. He assisted those stopping at his ranch at no cost and even delivered provisions out into the Mojave Desert. Williams died in the fall of 1856, his land and property were divided between his two daughters, María Merced Williams and Francisca Williams.
María later married and built a home in Rancho Cucamonga now known as the María Merced Williams and John Rains House. This home is now one of several historic sites administered by the San Bernardino County Museum. You can visit the María Merced Williams and John Rains House located at 8810 Hemlock St. in Rancho Cucamonga between Tuesday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Admission is free, and donations are welcome.
Additional County Update News – September 26, 2024
- Wildfire recovery efforts: County Local Assistance Centers opens doors to affected residents
- Board actions – Sept. 24
- Big Bear Alpine Zoo animals return home after being evacuated and sent to The Living Desert Zoo and Gardens
- County’s commitment to reducing homelessness results in significant progress
- First-ever ‘High School Family Feud: Voter Education Edition’ by the San Bernardino County Registrar of Voters engaged students beyond the classroom
- Bridging the digital divide: County expands older adults’ access to technology
- YES Program: Empowering justice-involved youth through education
- Preschool Services Department celebrates National Head Start Awareness Month by empowering families and communities for lifelong success
- Food and Nutrition Services approves timely reporting waiver for CalFresh in response to wildfires and power outages
- Land Use Services Department hosts community open houses
- Call for submissions: Share your favorite San Bernardino County destinations
- Things to Do in San Bernardino County
- Pet of the Week