Tapia Adobe

Tapia Adobe is a residence made from sun-dried clay bricks built on Red Hill in Cucamonga, showing traditional construction methods. The structure was created by mixing earthen materials with organic substances, representing a building approach common to the region.

Governor Juan Alvarado granted a large land tract to Tiburcio Tapia in 1839, who then built this dwelling on the property. The building lost importance after 1858 when Tapia's heirs sold the land to new owners.

The construction brought together local workers who used traditional clay brick methods to build the walls and foundation. This building technique shapes how the structure looks and feels even today.

The building is located at the intersection of Vineyard Avenue and Foothill Boulevard in present-day Rancho Cucamonga and is marked with a historical sign. The site is easy to access and situated in a developed residential area.

After the land was sold in 1858, the building received little care and gradually returned to its raw earthen state over time. This weathering shapes the rough, aged appearance the structure shows today.

Location: Cucamonga

Inception: 1839

Made from material: adobe

Address: 8916 Foothill Blvd, Cucamonga, California 91730

GPS coordinates: 34.10718,-117.61082

Latest update: December 14, 2025 11:23