RANCHO CUCAMONGA, CA – The rich, complex history of the Inland Empire is set to mingle with the aroma of fresh produce and artisanal goods this November, as the Museum Farmers Market Series launches a brand-new monthly market at the historic María Merced Williams and John Rains House.
The California Farmers Market Collective will officially open its stalls on Friday, November 7, and will operate on the first Friday of every month from 3:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. This exciting initiative provides a unique opportunity for the community to engage with local history while supporting local growers and makers—all in one memorable evening.
A Glimpse into Rancho Cucamonga’s Past
The John Rains House, located at 8810 Hemlock St., is more than just a beautiful background; it is one of the oldest fired-brick buildings still standing in San Bernardino County and provides a vital glimpse into 19th-century California life.
Built between 1860 and 1861, the house was the center of an expansive ranching and winemaking operation led by John Rains and his wife, María Merced Williams. Rains was a prominent, often controversial, businessman who purchased the Rancho Cucamonga land grant in 1858 and established one of California’s first major commercial wineries. The house itself reflected their wealth and influence, featuring a cutting-edge cooling system for the time that utilized ducts to run cool creek water beneath the structure.
Tragically, John Rains’ life was cut short when he was mysteriously murdered in 1862. It was María Merced Williams, the daughter of a prominent ranching family, who inherited the property and fiercely fought to preserve the sprawling estate through years of financial and legal upheaval. Recognizing her crucial role, the site is now appropriately named the María Merced Williams and John Rains House.
Explore the Exhibits
While browsing the stalls, visitors are encouraged to step inside the house, now a branch of the San Bernardino County Museum. The exhibits offer an in-depth look at Victorian domestic life and ranch living in the 1860s. Rooms are furnished with period-appropriate items that immerse guests in the world of the Rains family, from the front parlor where lavish parties once took place to the kitchen and guest quarters. The artifacts and displays highlight the challenges and successes faced by the region’s early settlers.
Shop Local, Learn Local
The true heart of the Museum Farmers Market Series is its mission to blend commerce with culture. This market is a destination for conscious consumers looking for:
- Locally Grown Fresh Produce: Find the best seasonal fruits, vegetables, and herbs from farms operating right here in Southern California.
- Excellent Prepared Food: Indulge in delicious, ready-to-eat meals, snacks, and baked goods from local chefs and food artisans.
- Locally Made Artisan Products: Discover unique, handcrafted goods, including jewelry, textiles, soaps, and more.
The market offers a vital chance to shop locally, reducing food miles and ensuring your dollars support your neighbors directly. However, the main advantage of the Museum Farmers Market Series is providing people with the opportunity to explore and learn about the area’s history while shopping nearby. It beautifully combines the past and present—allowing you to stand where history was made and help shape the local economy’s future.
Don’t miss the inaugural market on November 7th!
