Azariel Blanchard Miller facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Azariel Blanchard Miller
|
|
|---|---|
 |
|
| Born | 5 September 1878 |
| Died | 13 April 1941 (aged 62) |
Azariel Blanchard Miller (born September 5, 1878 – died April 13, 1941) was an American farmer and land developer. He is famous for starting the city of Fontana, California, in 1913. Today, places like Miller Park, Miller Avenue, and Fontana A.B. Miller High School in Fontana are named after him.
Contents
Who Was Azariel Miller?
Azariel Miller was born on September 5, 1878. He grew up in different places, including Washington, D.C.. He finished his schooling in Riverside, California. He also studied for a year at Claremont College in Pomona, California.
His brother, Kempster Blanchard Miller, was an electrical engineer. His niece, Ruth Miller, became a well-known artist in California. Her art was even shown at the 1932 Olympics.
How Fontana Was Founded
In 1905, Azariel Miller bought a huge piece of land. It was about 17,000 acres! This area was first called Rosena.
Miller worked hard to change the land. He used 200 horses, mules, plows, and scrapers. He turned the wild land into farms. These farms grew citrus fruits like oranges and lemons. They also had poultry (chickens) and cattle.
In 1913, the town was given a new name: Fontana. This is the city we know today.
Miller's Businesses and Leadership
Azariel Miller was a very active businessman. He led several important companies in the Fontana area.
- He was the President of Fontana Farms, which grew citrus fruits.
- He also led the Fontana Land Company.
- He was in charge of the Fontana Union Water Company, which still helps provide water today.
- He also ran the Fontana Power Company and the Miller Livestock Company.
Miller also helped start the First National Bank of Fontana. He was its first director.
Helping the Community
Azariel Miller cared a lot about his community. He was involved in many important groups.
- He was the President of the State Agricultural Society from 1931 to 1938. This group helps farmers.
- He also served on the board of the University of California. This means he helped make important decisions for the university.
- He was a member of the Chambers of Commerce for both Los Angeles and San Bernardino. These groups help local businesses.
Miller's Passing
Azariel Blanchard Miller passed away on April 13, 1941. He was 62 years old. He died in Fontana, California, the city he helped create.
