First settled in 1842 as a result of a Mexican land grant, the area was soon cultivating vegetables, fruit trees, grape vines, and livestock. In 1875 the town of Winters, named after land holder Theodore Winters, was established when the railroad crossed into Yolo County. By 1876, Winters had become a busy agricultural and commercial center with three trains arriving and departing daily. There were banks, hotels, traveling businessmen and visitors, as well as the merchants and ranchers that provided the town’s base.

earthquake heavily damaged many business buildings and residences. After rebuilding and establishing a High School, the City of Winters was incorporated in 1898. During the next century Winters grew to just under 7,000 residents and saw the discontinuation of the rail line. Following the boom and bust cycles of the rest of the country, at times Winters had multiple auto dealers and retail businesses, and at other times vacant boarded up store fronts.

Over time the crops have changed from primarily dried and fresh fruits to walnuts and almonds but agriculture has remained the central core of the community. Today, Winters remains a stable, picturesque, and vibrant small town, located in the heart of a rich agricultural area and possessing a strong sense of pride and community.