Pomona considers granting historic status to the second-oldest McDonald’s building.

In the heart of Pomona, California, an unassuming donut shop known as AMA Donuts stands at 1057 E. Mission Blvd., encapsulating a poignant chapter of fast-food history. The modest structure, characterized by its low profile and glass facade, invites curious glances, particularly from those who recall its storied past. This building once housed one of the earliest McDonald’s franchises, predating the iconic fast-food chain’s global expansion under Ray Kroc.

The fast-food pioneer, founded by brothers Richard and Maurice “Mac” McDonald, originally opened its doors in San Bernardino in 1940. Their innovative concept transformed the dining experience by employing an assembly-line method to serve hamburgers, cheeseburgers, fries, and malts with unprecedented speed. By December 22, 1948, the brothers had unveiled their first franchised location, a sensation that laid the groundwork for the McDonald’s we know today. The chain’s distinctive “Golden Arches” emerged in 1953, paving the way for extensive franchising.

The Pomona location—established on September 3, 1954—was just the seventh franchise in the burgeoning chain. It remained operational until 1968, after which it underwent significant modifications, including the removal of its trademark arches and a shift in branding. Notably, this transformation did little to erase its historical significance; today, it is regarded as one of only two remaining pre-Kroc McDonald’s, the other being located in Downey, California.

Recently, the Pomona Historic Preservation Commission took significant steps to recognize this building’s historical value. On April 1, the Commission unanimously recommended its protective designation as a city landmark, a proposal set to be reviewed by the City Council. If approved, any future alterations to the structure would require a thorough assessment of the cultural implications, ensuring that its narrative is preserved for coming generations.

Members of the local historical society and city planners gathered at AMA Donuts recently to discuss the building’s potential landmark status. The site retained distinctive architectural elements from its time as a McDonald’s, including remnants of the famed arches and a unique sign that, according to preservationists, may be the last of its kind.

Despite the challenges that have plagued Pomona over the years—including economic downturns and shifts in traffic patterns that rendered once-busy corridors quieter—this peculiar building has withstood the test of time. Its survival can be attributed to both neglect and a community-wide appreciation for its historical roots.

As AMA Donuts approaches its 40th anniversary, it carries with it the legacy of fast food in America, igniting nostalgia in local residents and curious patrons alike. The donut shop is not merely a culinary destination; it also serves as a tangible reminder of the transformative journey of a small walk-up stand that revolutionized the way the world consumes fast food.

As discussions surrounding the potential landmark designation continue, the future of this storied building remains uncertain. Nonetheless, it stands as a testament to Pomona’s rich history in the fast-food industry and the enduring appeal of mid-century architecture. With its history woven into the fabric of American dining culture, AMA Donuts is positioned to thrive amid both contemporary challenges and the growing recognition of its historical significance.