The Redlands Area Historical Society, Inc.
“Summit Avenue Walking Tour”
Saturday, February 22, 2025
10:00 a.m.
Start at 451 Summit Avenue
Scipio Craig, editor of The Citrograph, dubbed the new residence tract “Nob Hill.” Summit Avenue became the first of twelve Redlands Heights’ neighborhoods surveyed in 1887 and placed on the market in 1888. The Redlands Area Historical Society will examine the homes and history of Summit Avenue on a walking tour scheduled for Saturday February 22 starting at 10:00 a.m.
The tour is led by Tom Atchley, vice-president of the historical society. The walking tour begins at “Summit Point” which is at 451 Summit and proceeds down Summit towards Cajon Street. The tour ends overlooking the formal gardens of the Lyon Estate near 52 Summit Avenue. The tour fee is $10 for Historical Society members and $15 for nonmembers.
Three homes were constructed on Summit Avenue in 1888. Two of the homes were owned by brother-in-laws of Frank Brown, the co-founder of Redlands. Benton Johnson managed the Benton Johnson Mercantile store in Lugonia as well as postmaster duties. Upstairs, Judson and Brown had their real estate office. His other brother-in-law, Edward Wilmot, attorney for Judson and Brown, sold the lots of the Redlands Heights subdivision since the two founders were otherwise occupied.
Henry L. Williams built a real show place at 25 Summit. The spectacular Victorian home had a sweeping view of the valley at the head of Cajon Street. Williams placed his “Gladysta Tract” for sale in 1887. This land today encompasses Citrus Plaza or the “donut hole.” He planted the large Mexican fan palms that adorn Palmetto and the other streets of the tract. Williams was a director in the Bear Valley Irrigation Co. which Judson and Brown began.
Walking tours do not require reservations. For further information contact (909) 307-4661.
