George A. Wilbur, an enterprising citizen of Chino, is the founder and sole proprietor of the Chino Store, opened to the public in February, 1888, since which time he has conducted one of the most prosperous enterprises in that section. His large and commodious store is well appointed in all respects, and is well stocked with a choice selection of goods. He deals in provisions, groceries, dry goods and everything in the general merchandise line, furnishing goods, boots and shoes, crockery, tin-ware, hardware, cigars, tobacco, etc. He is thoroughly competent in his business, and justly merits the liberal patronage bestowed upon him by the residents of Chino and vicinity. He is also Wells, Fargo & Co.’s Express agent, and the Postmaster of Chino.
Mr. Wilbur is a native of California, dating his birth in 1865, near Redwood City, San Mateo County. His parents, John and Hannah W. (Pratt) Wilbur, are natives of Massachusetts. They came to California in 1864 and located in San Mateo County, where they resided until 1874, and then moved to Riverside, where they have since resided. ‘The subject of this sketch was reared and schooled in that enterprising colony, becoming a practical horticulturist in his youth. When eighteen years of age he entered into mercantile life as a clerk in his brother’s store at Riverside, and in 1885 engaged in business under the firm name of Wilbur Brothers. He continued that business until 1887, and then located in Los Angeles, where lie engaged in the real-estate business under the firm name of George A. Wilbur & Co. He was one of the founders and incorporators of the Los Angeles Real Estate and Stock Exchange. Mr. Wilbur continued his business in Los Angeles until he established his present enterprise. In addition to his mercantile operations he is also engaged in horticultural pursuits upon a ten-acre tract in Chino, upon which he has a choice variety of walnuts, prunes, pears, and other deciduous fruits. He is confident that citrus fruits can be successfully and profitably cultivated in that section, and is devoting considerable attention toward establishing that fact.
Politically Mr. Wilbur is a Democrat, but is liberal and conservative in his views. He is a member of Sunnyside Lodge, No. 112, K. of P., of Riverside. He is an energetic and progressive citizen, and a supporter of any enterprise that will develop the resources of his section.
A man of sound business principles and straightforward in his dealings, he has gained the respect of his associates and of the community.
September 15, 1887, Mr. Wilbur married Miss Minnie Saunders, a native of Utah. There is one child from this marriage, viz.: Hazel Elsie.
