Running springs

The History of Running Springs

The history of Running Springs started with the need for harvesting virgin timber in the San Bernadine mountains and the need for a new road. The area is now called Running Springs.

In may of 1890, Thomas McFarlane was hired to build a new road up City Creek by the Running Spring. Then the highland lumber company opened to the public their new route to the crest as a toll road. The charge was 25 cents per animal or 50 cents for a wagon and team. The city creek toll road became a popular route to the mountains, even with the danger of meeting a fully loaded timber wagon heading down the steep grade.

Fredalba park

In April 1895, Alfred (or just Fred for short)and Albert Smiley, two wealthy brothers from Redlands, purchased 262 acres of forest land from the highland lumber company. They laid out a town complete with hotel and rental cottages. The resort was called Fredalba park. Fredalba park was named after Alfred and Albert and Fredalba was a combination of the names Fred and Albert.

<< Previous    [1]  2    Next >>