It’s generally considered a ghost town now – Guasti winery located north of the Ontario Airport and named after founder Secondo Guasti (1859-1927).

But days of vintage glory for the famous wine town live in the memories of many, including Sandra Chaffin of Alta Loma.

The history enthusiast recently shared many of her Guasti notes and photos.

“I am pretty good about finding information that I am interested in and have a true passion for our local history,” said Chaffin.

“I became interested in the wineries when I had found some old pictures of the Guasti vineyards. The struggles they had because of the winds. Then I found some pictures of these beautiful women Mr. Guasti had brought in to promote the winery. They all were absolutely beautiful.”

Italian Vineyard Co.

Guasti arrived in California by way of Mexico City and settled in Los Angeles.

In 1900, he and his associates incorporated under the name of the Italian Vineyard Co., or IVC. Guasti was president and IVC acquired much land in the Ontario area for winegrowing.

One of the myths associated with the establishment of the IVC was that Guasti was embarking upon a new endeavor. This is not entirely true as Antonio Signorio had planted the early vines on 2,000 acres. The Hofer family was farming Ontario in 1882.

The IVC grew to 5,700 acres advertised as “The World’s Largest Vineyard” contiguous “vine to vine,” and Guasti become known as the town for the families who toiled in the vineyards and cellars. A school, Catholic Church, housing, market and firehouse were built for approximately 1,200 workers, mostly of Italian and Mexican descent.

Chaffin was born in Ontario and in 1962 moved to Alta Loma.

“During that time, I had met families that farmed grapes including the Filpis and Guideras, and Michael family with their orange groves,” said Chaffin. “Since I knew these names I knew there would be history written about them and I love sharing the pictures I find with friends on Facebook.

“I get so excited when I find great pictures. I have actually had a few authors/historians contact me in regards to some of the pictures I have found that they have never seen before. I will be retiring from the U.S. Post Office in a few months, and will continue my search for pictures of our past in our local community.”

Sandra Chaffin can be reached at vintagelace@ gmx.com. Many of her photos can be viewed on Facebook at Inland Empire ’50s, ’60s and ’70s.

— Gino L. Filippi can be reached at ginoffvine@aol.com