History
A Strong City
Covina, founded in 1882, is seven square miles and located in the heart of the East San Gabriel Valley, approximately 22 miles east of Downtown Los Angeles. It is centered in the midst of Interstate freeways 10, 210, and 605, and State Route 57. Covina’s population is approximately 47,880 yet, back in 1900, it was known as one of the smallest cities in the whole country.
Special attention has been given to preserving Covina’s old-town Downtown feel. The Downtown Specific Plan was developed to promote pedestrian and transit oriented development while honoring its downtown historical character. Visitors enjoy “mom and pop” shops and can spend a nostalgic day in downtown dining in fine eateries, visiting vintage clothing stores, hobby shops, antique stores, and ice cream shops. The renovated Center for the Performing Arts (CCPA) is a $10 million facility that serves as the architectural and entertainment cornerstone of Downtown.
Downtown serves as a gathering spot for citizens to participate in special and charity events. Such occasions bring the community together and fosters goodwill between Covina’s elected officials, City staff and the community.
Providing excellent customer service to its citizens and businesses is the highest priority of Covina’s Mayor, City Council and City Manager.
Covina Museums
Covina has two museums, both operated by the Covina Valley Historical Society.
Built in 1911, the firehouse-jail was the first civic building in the City of Covina. It now houses the Covina Firehouse/Jail Museum, located adjacent to City Hall at 125 East College Street. It is open every Sunday, except holidays, from 1 to 3 pm and by appointment. It is staffed by volunteers with the Covina Valley Historical Society, who guide tours and answer questions.
The Historic Heritage House, located on the west side of Covina Park at 300 N. Valencia Place, is open the fourth Sunday of each month, except holidays, from 1 to 3 pm.
For further information on either of the museums, visit covinamuseum.org.
The Vintage Years
Also, if you’re interested in Covina history, don’t miss seeing “Vintage Years”, a photographic exhibit Covina before 1950, located at Covina City Hall. You can journey into Covina’s past by viewing 130 rare photographs that depict the history of Covina from 1846 to 1950.
The exhibit is open to the public for self-guided tours during City Hall regular business hours.
Historical Walking Tours
Open the document below for a self-guided tour map.
