History 

Victorville was incorporated on September 21, 1962, as a general law city with a population of just over 8,100 and an area of 9.7 square miles. Long before incorporation, however, the community’s history stretched back more than a century to the arrival of the first settlers of European descent. 

In 1885, the town became known as “Victor,” named in honor of Jacob Nash Victor, a construction superintendent for the California Southern Railroad (later the Santa Fe Railroad). The community grew around the original railroad station, located about a mile northwest of the narrows of the Mojave River. By 1901, the United States Post Office officially changed the name to “Victorville” to avoid confusion with Victor, Colorado.

Victorville’s growth was also tied to the establishment of U.S. Route 66 in 1926, one of the most iconic highways in the nation, linking Chicago, Illinois, to California. Portions of Seventh Street and D Street became part of this historic roadway, attracting travelers from across the country and fueling the development of Old Town Victorville. For decades, Old Town thrived as a bustling destination filled with shops, diners, and roadside stops.

That began to change in 1966 with the completion of Interstate 15. As travelers shifted to the new freeway, Route 66 declined in popularity, and Old Town saw a downturn. Today, however, the City of Victorville has made revitalization of Old Town one of its key priorities. Through the dedication of City staff and the support of the community, efforts are underway to celebrate Victorville’s historic roots, restore its old-school charm, and reintroduce this unique area as a vibrant destination for residents and visitors alike.