California note
Ontario has a local history room for the Model Colony story
Ontario's Model Colony History Room keeps books, maps, photos, yearbooks, directories, oral histories, and local records tied to Ontario and western San Bernardino County.
Euclid Avenue gives Ontario its big Model Colony look. The library history room keeps the small details close. The Robert E. Ellingwood Model Colony History Room has been part of Ontario City Library since 1970.
It focuses on Ontario and the western part of San Bernardino County. The collection includes books, newspaper articles, brochures, photos, maps, yearbooks, city directories, building surveys, oral histories, and other local records.
That may sound quiet, but it can help with real questions. An old house, a local business, a school yearbook, a family name, or an old photo can all become easier to trace here.
It also fits Ontario’s beginning. The Chaffey brothers planned the colony around water, land sales, irrigation, and a strong idea of what a town could become. A city with that much planning history benefits from a place that cares for the paper trail.
It is not the loudest stop in town. For people who like old maps, local photos, and the story behind a street name, it can be a small treasure.
Where to see it
Robert E. Ellingwood Model Colony History Room at Ontario City Library.
Official sources
Official pages
Reviewed July 3, 2026
Current rules, forms, fees, deadlines, maps, and office instructions.
Rules, forms, fees, deadlines, and office procedures can change. Check the current page before you file, pay, or rely on a date.
Connected places
Open the local directory
Related notes
Related California notes
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