Lemon Grove (Images of America)

Lemon Grove dates to 1892 when it first appeared in the San Diego County records as “Lemon Grove.” The tiny, whistle-stop town emerged during the “second gold rush,” the rise of California’s citrus industry, which was facilitated by the 1849 Gold Rush, the break up of the Mexican ranchos in Alta California, and the advent of statehood for California in 1850. Land speculators poured into California, lured by the exquisite climate, five growing seasons, and the possibilities for success in agriculture and business. Lemon Grove became home to gentlemen farmers from the East and Midwest, whose descendants live on in the community to this day.