Memorial Rock reminds the community of those who served

The giant rock serves as tribute to CHS alums who served in the U.S. military

Isabella Esquivel, Pepper Bough Staff Writer • May 26, 2025

Neale Adair, courtesy of Colton High Archives

Memorial Stadium was dedicated on September 26, 1958 with the installation of the limestone rock. This photo features (from left to right), Rev. Dean Berger, Donald McIntosh, and Honorable Thomas Halderson, Judge of Municipal Court in San Bernardino.

That big rock that you pass by outside of Colton High School’s football stadium is more than just a big, funny looking rock.

This rock is a 10-ton piece of pure limestone that stands as a respected monument in tribute to those Colton residents who served and sacrificed for our country.

Memorial rock was donated by the Portland Cement Company on September 26, 1958 during a Colton High football game. The idea was brought to the school board in early 1958 to dedicate the memorial stadium to all the CHS alumni who lost their lives in World War ll and the Korean War.

At the time Memorial Stadium was one of the largest in the district and is still considered one of the best. It still provides a place for the Colton community to come together and remember the service of those who lived here.

Memorial Day

Donate to The Pepper Bough

$932

$1500

Contributed

Our Goal

Recently, the CHS Publications Department experienced a major theft as over $20,000 in photography equipment was stolen from our studio over Spring Break. This included all cameras. Any amount you donate will help rebuild our program. Thank you!