Established in the 19th century amid the California Gold Rush, the locale initially bore the names Mayhew's Crossing and Hangtown Crossing. Subsequent to that, around the 20th century, it was relabelled as Mayhew Station and Mills Station. Ultimately, it took on the title of Rancho Cordova, named after the Cordova Vineyard. Notably, Rancho Cordova also serves as a pivotal point on the early transcontinental railway line.