Upper Toll House

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Upper Toll Gate, Cajon Pass

In 1863, the upper toll station in Cajon Pass was part of a system used to collect fees from travelers passing through this vital route in Southern California. Cajon Pass was a key passage through the San Bernardino Mountains, connecting the desert areas to the coastal regions. The toll road was maintained by private individuals or companies who had the right to charge travelers for using the road.

Back in those days, the road was rough, and maintaining it was no small feat. The tolls collected at stations like the one in Cajon Pass helped fund repairs and improvements, making the journey safer and more reliable for wagons, stagecoaches, and even horseback riders.

The upper toll station was strategically located where travelers were already committed to the challenging climb or descent of the pass. It wasn't just a place to pay your dues; it was also a checkpoint where travelers could gather information about road conditions ahead, ensuring they were prepared for what lay on the other side of the mountains.

This system reflects the growing infrastructure in the region during the 19th century, as more people moved westward and the need for reliable transportation routes increased.