Located 22 miles southeast of metropolitan Los Angeles, in the center of North Orange County, Fullerton is a full-service city renowned for its unique mix of residential, commercial and industrial, educational, and cultural environments, which provide an outstanding quality of life for both residents and businesses alike. Those moving to Fullerton will discover a community with a strong sense of tradition, one that treasures its historic past as it prepares to meet the challenges of its future.
History:
By the 1830s, the face of the Fullerton, California landscape began to form. In 1848, California became part of the U.S., triggering a rush of homesteaders, businessmen, and, with the discovery of gold in 1849, miners. In the 1860s, Stearns, suffering a severe financial setback, saved his land from foreclosure by subdividing and selling it. The first wells were struck in the late 1890s, and, by 1912, wells extended for 12 miles. In 1920, Fullerton weathered the only challenge to its borders. To accommodate the needs of its growing industrial segment, the city planned to establish a sewer farm on property in the south of town. The 1920s also heralded an economic boom for the city, sparked in part by the oil being pumped in the hills to the north. The airport gained world-wide attention in 1949 when two flight instructors flew the "Sunkist Lady" to a world endurance flight record of 42 days. Before the 1950s had concluded, the city had 142 industries producing a variety of goods, and employing 18,500 persons. By the 1970s, the rapid pace of growth, which characterized Fullerton in the post-war years, had slowed considerably. The city was now able to concentrate on providing the amenities all those new families and businesses demanded. New libraries were built, a cultural center and a museum were opened, parks and community centers were developed, recreational trails were provided, human service programs were instituted, and general municipal services were expanded to meet the needs of businesses and residents alike.
The last two decades saw Fullerton's citizens and the City Council, joining forces in an effort to restore the traditional "heart" of the city. As the City of Fullerton moved into the new millennium, its emphasis continues to be on progress to meet the changing needs and interests of the citizens.
Economy:
The economy of Fullerton depends on the petroleum extraction, transportation along with the manufacturing industries. Orange County, like the nation, has transformed from an industrial-based economy to a high-technology, innovation-based economy. The result is an ever-increasing need to provide educational and workforce development programs that prepare and motivate students for high-skill, high-wage careers. From Disneyland to business service venues, from high-tech conglomerates to unparalleled real estate opportunities, Orange County is at the forefront of economic opportunity with an unparalleled location at the center of one of the world's largest markets, and a unique combination of high quality of life and vibrant business climate. While originally the suburban bedroom community to Los Angeles, Orange County has emerged over the last fifty years as an urbanized hub of global importance, the economic engine of Southern California. The city of Fullerton is also home to a quality education system, helping to provide a well-educated labor force. The city houses various schools, colleges, universities and California State University is the most renowned one.
Tourism:
Start you exploration of the city by visiting Sky Thrills USA. SkyThrills, is best known for its unique style of "hand's on" flying adventures in world-class, aerobatic stunt planes. Highly trained and experienced instructor pilots will take care of you with their meticulous attention to details and safety. Next, Cal State Fullerton's 236-acre campus is packed with opportunities for learning, recreation, fitness and fun. Whether it is taking in a jazz concert in the new Performing Arts Center, auditing a class from the Kung Fu Club or playing pool in the Titan Student Union, there's something for every taste. Tour the planets at the Fullerton Planet Walk, or watch the Lady Titans play at the softball complex. Finally, the city of Fullerton's exciting downtown area featuring coffeehouses, restaurants, theaters and pubs for you to enjoy.