http://www.slc.ca.gov/Misc_Pages/Historical/Surveyors_General/reports/Willey_1884_1886.pdf Report of the Surveyor General 1844–1886] In November 1869, the California Silk Center Association was formed for the purpose of growing silkworms, and mulberry trees, citrus fruits, and grapes; it purchased over 4000 acres of the Rubidoux Rancho for its enterprise.