Pomona

In Roman mythology, a wood nymph and the goddess of fruit trees. She is often depicted in art holding a cornucopia, symbolizing the fruits of the earth.

Vertumnus, a satyr, was besotted by the nymph and visited her in various disguises to encourage her to look favourably on a marriage. Discouraged by her rejection, he finally revealed his true identity, whereupon Pomona fell in love with his beauty.

Pomona

City in Los Angeles County, southwestern California, USA, 40 km/25 mi east of Los Angeles, in a valley south of the San Gabriel Mountains; population (1990) 131,700. Oranges and lemons, the area's main crops, have been processed and shipped from Pomona since the late 19th century. Manufactures have included guided missiles, vehicle and aircraft components and equipment, electronic items, tiles, and naval ordnance. Educational facilities include a campus of California State Polytechnic University (1938), and Pomona College in neighbouring Claremont to the northeast. Pomona is host to the Los Angeles County Fair, held annually September-October.

The area was settled by Mexicans in the 1830s, and Americans founded the city in 1875, naming it after the Roman goddess of fruit trees.

Pomona

Village in Galloway township, Atlantic County, southeastern New Jersey, USA, 16 km/10 mi northwest of Atlantic City; population (1990) 2,600. It is the seat of Stockton State College (1969), which is noted for its performing arts centre. Atlantic City International Airport lies nearby to the south.