Ren's Did You Know ? - The Founding of Chaffey College in Ontario Ca.

In 1882, as part of their four principles, George Chaffey allocated 20 acres at the corner of Fourth Street and Euclid Avenue for a college of agriculture. He entered into a trust agreement with the University of Southern California to develop future buildings. The cornerstone of Chaffey College was laid on March 17, 1883 with much fanfare, although construction did not actually commence until January of 1884. The building was constructed using more than 300,000 bricks, and was complete with a chapel, four large lecture rooms, 11 offices, a library, and a museum. The college was completed and opened in October 1885 with 10 students, serving some students from as far away as Hemet. By 1890 the courses emphasized classical studies instead of agriculture. Upon its completion, the Ontario Fruit Grower newspaper stated that, “from every window views of the colony of Ontario, the valley, and the mountains are delightful.” By 1901, the college ties with the University of Southern California had been broken due to financial reasons, and the school had become Ontario High School. After several years the trust agreement was settled and income from the trust went toward the library and book fund. Chaffey Union High School District was created in 1911. George Chaffey provided the district with an $8,000.00 endowment and Ontario High School became Chaffey High School. Between 1909 and 1916, the original three-story building was remodeled, creating an auditorium and library. New construction included the Science, Administration, and Mechanic Arts buildings. In 1916, the Chaffey Board approved funding for a junior college department to be co-located on the high school campus, and Chaffey Junior College opened with 100 students. Chaffey Junior College expanded and moved its campus to Alta Loma, opening in 1959. Image: Chaffey College, circa 1887.