About SideTracked
This cache belongs to the SideTracked series. It is not designed to take you to a magical place with a breathtaking view. It's simply a cache-and-dash distraction for the weary public transport user, which can be found at or near train stations, former train stations, and miniature railroads. There are currently over 4,500 SideTracked caches in more than 30 countries around the world. More information can be found on the SideTracked series website.
About This Station
The APU / Citrus College station is one of two Metro stations in Azusa, both of which are part of the A Line of the LA Metro Rail System from Pasadena to Azusa. Passenger service began on March 5, 2016.
APU / Citrus College is currently the end of the line, but construction is underway to extend further east to Glendora, San Dimas, La Verne, and Pomona by 2025. A future extension includes Claremont and Montclair by 2028, although these stations were not funded at time of publication.
The station artwork by Lynn Goodpasture reflects the area's heritage which includes one of the earliest, most productive, and innovative California ranchos, one of the most successful and well-known citrus companies, and the world’s leading grower of landscape and garden plants which revolutionized the art and science of growing healthy plants.
Her artwork, entitled Azusa Horticultural Paradise, includes four mosaic-tiled benches that feature the following motifs:
- Oranges & Honey Bees commemorates Henry Dalton’s most important contributions.
- Western Sycamore refers to the beautiful indigenous trees, which served as the inspiration behind the name of Kate Slausen Vosburg’s ranch.
- Wild Hyacinths are the once prolific wild flowers which Louise Slauson MacNeil chose as the symbol and name of her ranch.
- Rosedale’s Beauty (camellia) was one of the most popular camellias and was propagated during the 1950s by Monrovia Nursery, which has produced many noteworthy plants.
In addition to these elements, Goodpasture included a reference to the iconic and rare stand of California Fan Palms (Washingtonia filifera) that are thought to have been planted in 1899. These trees came to symbolize Azusa, and they continue to provide the people of Azusa with an important connection to their city’s past. This design reference is included in the sides of the custom-cast benches and is also articulated in mosaic.
Palm fronds often form a canopy in nature and are umbrella-like in their shape and structure. This colorful motif is included in the glass design of the canopy at the entrance of the station platform.
About This Cache
The cache is a bit further from the station than I usually strive for, but the station has had a lot of extra security lately and I had trouble finding a good spot. Imagine my surprise when canvasing the neighborhood to find a beautful park that wasn't even on my map yet! When we were in London, there were many such SideTracked caches that were several blocks away from a station, so it seems in keeping with the intent.
