The Story of Norco

In 1846, the area that is now Norco was part of a Mexican Grant from Mexico to Vicenta Sepulveda and was called the Little La Sierra Rancho. The area passed through several owners including the San Jacinto Land Company. James W. Long purchased the Norco area land around 1908. He organized the Orange Heights Water Company. Development began and in 1910 the area became a subdivision of the Corona Land Company for citrus growing. In 1921, the property was purchased by the North Corona Land Company. The name of Norco came from the North Corona portion of the company name.

From fewer than 100 families in the valley to the present, Norco has changed much. The Norco Store was the hub of the city during this early time. Rex B. Clark purchased the company during the 20's. He then set about developing the city of Norco. Clark was responsible for most of the early buildings in the area, such as: the Norco School on Acacia. This is used today as the Norco Community Center. In 1929 Rex B. Clark built a resort, the Norconian Club and Hotel near a hot sulfur well he discovered in the area. The hotel became the "in" place to visit for the Hollywood movie crowd. The depression hurt the economy as it did all over the country and the hotel closed down. The property was sold to the federal government in 1941 for use as a naval hospital. Later, after the hospital was closed down, the site became the Naval Weapons Center and the California Rehabilitation Center. These two are still active in the community today, providing many jobs and helping our community.

Norco has grown larger and gained many new businesses and families. It was incorporated as a city in December of 1964. It is well-known for its animal-keeping orientation. Lot sizes in Norco are a minimum 1/2 acre in size. Nearly any type of animal may be found in town. Interstate 15 goes through Norco and has brought business and exposure to the city. Notable additions are the Norco Auto Mall and Gateway area development. There are no sidewalks or curbs in much of Norco, instead horse trails are the norm. It is a great family-sports-animal oriented community. For additional history information, please contact the city historian through the city.