Citrus Roots

Waiting Station Mural

Located in San Antonio Park, Upland, home to the century-old trolley waiting station of the old Ontario & San Antonio Heights Railroad Co., this mural painted by Art Mortimer, illustrates the many accomplishments of William G. Kerckhoff. Kerckhoff's power station in Mt. Baldy Canyon helped power the Pacific Electric trolley fleet, and remains in operation today.

This mural is the only known commemoration of the many accomplishments and business legacies of William G. Kerckhoff.

Commisioned by Upland Community Foundation

William G. Kerckhoff, Utility Empire Builder

by Henry W. O’Melveny

Mr. Kerckhoff never failed which proves he had the virtues of integrity, probity and reliability! The result of all his efforts in the development of hydroelectric energy was summed up in the formation of Pacific Light and Power Company and the San Joaquin Light and Power Corporation. The former was merged with and constitutes a major portion of Southern California Edison Company, as was also the San Joaquin Light and Power Corporation now owned and operated by P.G.& E. Corporation. The results of his founding efforts in the field of natural gas is summarized in the Southern California Gas Company. These three companies constitute a continuing contribution to the industrial and domestic life of California. The Kerckhoff’s were “role models” in philanthropic giving - Kerckhoff Hall, UCLA; Kerckhoff Biology Laboratory at Caltech; Kerckhoff Marine Laboratory in Corona del Mar; Kerckhoff Hall, USC; and two medical institutions in Germany.