OUR CITY

The historic city of Fullerton, situated in North Orange County, is just miles away from such attractions as Disneyland and the Pacific Ocean and less than an hour south of Los Angeles. Oranges and oil represent a significant part of Fullerton's history. Charles Chapman, a descendant of John Chapman (the legendary "Johnny Appleseed"), began growing oranges, specifically the Valencia orange, on his east Fullerton ranch. The growing boom spread quickly, providing an economic explosion in the area. Along with the discovery of significant amounts of oil in north Fullerton (much of which is now Brea), the area experienced rapid growth and prosperity.

Over the years, Fullerton residents continued to provide vision and leadership for the entire Orange County area. Fullerton College, established in 1913 just blocks from the spot where Edward Amerige founded the city, remains the state's oldest continually operating community college. Pioneer aviators Robert and William Dowling convinced the city to build Fullerton Municipal Airport, the oldest and largest general aviation airfield still in its original location in the county.

Today, the city boasts a beautiful historic downtown area, less than a mile from Fullerton College. Several buildings listed on the National Historic Register of Places grace Harbor Boulevard and the surrounding streets, including the Chapman Building, which had the distinction as Orange County's first skyscraper (five stories) when it was built in 1922.