Barton, Fresno County, California facts for kids

Barton was once a small community in Fresno County, California. It was located along a railroad line between the cities of Fresno and Sunnyside. A post office was opened in Barton in 1949, serving the people who lived there. Over time, however, Barton stopped being an active settlement.

What Was Barton?

Barton was a "former settlement." This means it was once a place where people lived and worked, but it no longer exists as an active community today. Many small towns like Barton grew up around important transportation routes, such as railroads. These towns often provided services for travelers or workers in nearby industries.

Life in a Railroad Town

In the mid-20th century, railroads were vital for moving goods and people across California. Small settlements like Barton often sprang up along these lines. They might have had a few homes, a general store, and perhaps a post office, like Barton did. The post office, established in 1949, would have been an important link for residents to the outside world, allowing them to send and receive mail.

Why Did Barton Disappear?

Many small settlements in California, especially those tied to specific industries or transportation methods, eventually faded away. As roads improved and cars became more common, the importance of railroads for local travel decreased. People might have moved to larger towns for more opportunities or better services. When a community's main reason for existing changes, it can sometimes lead to the settlement becoming a "former" place, like Barton.