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The Story of Rowland Heights
Rowland Heights is not an incorporated city—it’s an unincorporated community in Los Angeles County with deep historical roots. The land was originally part of the La Puente Rancho, a 49,000-acre grant awarded in 1842 by the Mexican government to American settlers John Rowland and William Workman.
In 1851, the partners divided the land: Rowland took the 29,000 acres to the east, Workman the west. For decades, the area remained agricultural—covered in walnut, avocado, and citrus trees.
Oil & Early Industry
Oil & Early Industry
Oil was discovered in 1884 in the surrounding hills. For the next 40 years, the Puente Oil Company fueled Los Angeles industries, including the LA Cable Railway and a beet sugar refinery in Chino.
Growth & Transformation
Growth & Transformation
The area began to change dramatically in the 1960s:
Water infrastructure was built.
Roads followed.
The 60 Freeway connected the region to the rest of Los Angeles.
Farmland gave way to housing developments, and the population exploded—from 4,500 in 1960 to about 60,000 today.
A Diverse Community Today
A Diverse Community Today
Today, Rowland Heights is one of the most culturally diverse communities in Southern California, known for its vibrant blend of cultures, businesses, and neighborhoods.
We are proudly part of the Los Angeles County First Supervisorial District.
The Buckboard Days Parade
The Buckboard Days Parade
What began as a small-town fundraiser in 1971 has grown into a beloved tradition in Rowland Heights. The Buckboard Days Festival was originally created by the Rowland Heights Junior Women’s Club and the Rowland Heights Woman’s Club as a 3-day community event.
At the time, Rowland Heights was a quiet, developing area with few opportunities to connect as a community. In 1972, a parade was added to the festival to foster unity and spark community spirit. It quickly became the only annual event bringing together children, adults, pets, and local businesses.
Passing the Torch
Passing the Torch
For years, Don and Kathy Delegal organized the parade. When they prepared to move, they passed the baton to local organizations. In 2011, the Rowland Heights Community Coordinating Council (RHCCC) and the Rowland Heights Chinese Association (RHCA) stepped up, led by Beth Hojnacke and Sue Ann Tai.
Since 2016, David Martinez has served as Parade Chair, keeping the tradition alive with the help of dedicated volunteers.
Today's Parade & Festival
Today's Parade & Festival
🗺️ The Route: > Starts at Nogales St. & Colima Rd. ➡️ Moves down Banida Avenue ➡️ Ends at Rowland Heights County Park.
🎈 The Festival: > Immediately follows the parade at the park! Proudly hosted by L.A. County Parks & Recreation with food, vendors, and community fun.
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