El Camino Real Bells

El Camino Real Bells. . The "El Camino Real Bells" have long been in place since the early part of the last century to mark the original route of "El Camino Real" from San Diego to Sonoma in California. The El Camino Real, (Royal Highway or King's Highway), closely follows highway 101 in California. The El Camino Real was the first roadway in the state, built by the Spanish during the early mission days., The bells were first erected and paid for by the Camino Real Association in the early 1900s. The Association installed the guidepost bells to mark the road and many of these bells are still standing today., Rancho Cucamonga's last remaining original El Camino Real Bell has been restored and relocated in this prominent and protected location befitting its historical significance by the John Laing Homes Company. Route 66 in Rancho Cucamonga originally had two authentic bells (the one at Rochester and Foothill is not original). The one that was located next to Thomas Winery (corner of Vineyard and Foothill) was lost during the construction of the shopping center. The second bell, was donated by the Duane Meyer family, originally was located in front of the Meyer and Lawrence Garage at the north east corner of Etiwanda and Foothill. Duane Meyer, and Monte Lawrence saved the bell after it had been knocked down by an act of vandalism. Upon Mr. Meyer passing, his wife with the help of Frank and Mary Vecchio contacted the City and donated the bell to the City. This bell remains the property of the City of Rancho Cucamonga, but the Route 66 Project Homeowner's Association has accepted maintenance of the bell.