Twenty-five years ago, as part of an oral history project celebrating the sesquicentennial of the planting of the Mother Vineyard, Rancho Cucamonga Chamber of Commerce volunteers brought together some of the region’s most historically significant residents to reminisce about the early days of the region.

Yet, while most were content to rhapsodize about the early days of the grape industry, guest Ada Cooper arrived as a woman with a mission – to ensure that no part of the entire span of the region’s agricultural history was overlooked in favor of the region’s betterknown viticulture.

And today, Upland’s Cooper Regional History Museum, named in her honor, carries on Ada’s mission – with a twist.

“We’re probably the best-kept secret in Upland,” said the museum’s President of the Board of Trustees Dave Stevens.

Vibrant showcases The Cooper Museum is located at 217 E. A St. at the corner of Second Avenue in historic downtown Upland. The museum offers innovations, including vibrant showcases of regional culture with innovative Open-Mic Night performances by local musical artists and a Moonlight Summer Concert in the Museum’s courtyard.

With its beautiful setting in the historic former headquarters of the Ontario-Cucamonga Fruit Exchange’s 1937 Art Moderne style building, the museum works to enhance an appreciation of Upland’s history and culture.

“We want to keep the Cooper Museum going. We’ve had different things to make ends meet and keep our children’s programs going,” Stevens said. “Part of the money we raise goes to that and part goes to keeping the doors open.”

Cars and concerts The events join with the museum’s other innovative programs to promote the region, including the unique Classic Car Shows to celebrate

America’s armed forces and summer Cooper Kids’ children’s programs in the courtyard, which introduce young people to the region’s past, art and science, along with other programs throughout the year.

Stevens said the museum, which is part of the Chaffey Communities Cultural Center complex, will be opening up a new gallery featuring historic artifacts and photographs from the archives of Upland’s founding citizens.

“This is the first time we’ve done this,” said Stevens.

Remember Roy The museum’s program continues with the 8 p.m., Aug. 30, Remembering Roy tribute to Roy Orbison featuring Mark Barnett. Cost is a $20 donation to the museum and includes a free beverage to those who arrive with a gift for Toys for Tots.

The best part, said Stevens, is that it all benefits the community.

“I enjoy doing these programs and I love music,” he added. “We’ve been doing pretty well.”

For more information on the museum or upcoming events, visit www.coopermuseum.org.