Chula Vista History

Chula Vista has a rich and vibrant history dating long before the city's incorporation in 1911.

During the late 1700s, Chula Vista and neighboring National City were grazing land for cattle and horses in an area originally known as Rancho del Rey or Ranch of the King. Part of the territories north of Mexico first claimed by Spain, then Mexico in 1821, and eventually the United States and California, this area, with its 300-year multi-national heritage woven into its character, would later become a pioneer village, a residential suburb designed to attract wealthy fruit ranchers during the late 1800s.

In 1868, the land was purchased by Frank Kimball in order to develop a new town, and it was Mr. Kimball who was instrumental in bringing the California Southern Railroad to the area, paving the way for further growth. It was the railroads that essentially jump-started Southern California's real estate boom during the 1880s. In 1887, Chula Vista (defined as beautiful view) was designated as a new town south of National City.

Chula Vista attracted new residents from across the country, Canada and England. From the late 1880s and over the next century, homes were built in a variety of architectural styles including Victorian, Spanish-style, Monterey, Tudor and Art Deco. Over time, the citrus orchards have diminished, leaving behind a charming town that has since grown to become San Diego's second largest city. See our new homes in Chula Vista

Bonita History

In what today is Bonita and the Sweetwater Valley, there once was an area rich with citrus orchards where early settlers were gentlemen farmers raising lemon trees. Some of these trees still exist in the Sweetwater Regional Park, where Bonita's humble rural beginnings are evident as today's horses and their riders meander along the miles of riding and hiking trails crisscrossing the valley. From a slow two-lane country road to a busy four-lane city street today, Bonita Road showcases several churches, shopping centers and professional buildings.

The Bonita Business & Professional Association was informally founded in 1971 with 30 businesses. The Association is the proud sponsor of Bonitafest, which celebrated its 25th anniversary in 1997. This annual event lines Bonita Road with craft, game, and food booths, and is highlighted by a two hour parade with marching bands and hometown entries. The day ends with an old-fashioned family deep pit barbecue at the Optimist Center on Sweetwater Road.