Fresno City, California facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Fresno City
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Former settlement
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 Fresno City
Location in California
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| Country | United States |
| State | California |
| County | Fresno County |
| Elevation | 164 ft (50 m) |
| Reference #: | 488 |
Fresno City was once a small town in Fresno County, California. It was located near a waterway called Fresno Slough, about 2 miles (3.2 km) northwest of a place called Tranquillity. The town sat at an elevation of 164 feet (50 meters) above sea level. Its name, "Fresno," comes from the Spanish word for the Oregon Ash trees that grew commonly along the riverbanks nearby.
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Fresno City: A Town That Vanished
Fresno City was a settlement that existed for a short time in California's history. It was an important spot for travel and trade before it disappeared. Today, there are no buildings or signs left of the original town.
Where Was Fresno City?
This former town was built at the "head of navigation" on Fresno Slough. This means it was as far up the shallow waterway as boats could travel. Its location was key for moving goods and people in the mid-1800s.
The Early Days of Fresno City
The town began in 1855. People built a pier where flatboats and barges could dock. Warehouses were constructed to store goods, and houses were built for the residents. There was even a hotel called the Casa Blanca Hotel.
In 1858, Fresno City became a stop on the Butterfield Overland Mail route. This was a famous stagecoach service that carried mail and passengers across the country. By 1860, a telegraph line from San Francisco reached the town, connecting it to faster communication.
Why Fresno City Disappeared
Even though there were big plans for Fresno City, its success did not last. The Butterfield Overland Mail service stopped in early 1861. Then, a huge event called the Great Flood of 1862 caused a lot of damage to the area. By 1865, most people had left, and the town was practically abandoned. A post office operated in Fresno City only for a short time, from 1860 to 1863.
Remembering Fresno City
Even though Fresno City is gone, its history is remembered. In 1952, the Fresno County Historical Association put up a special marker. This marker, called California Historical Landmark No. 488, had a bronze plaque explaining the town's story.
The plaque stated that Fresno City existed from about 1855 to 1875. It also mentioned that the "City of Fresno," which is now the county seat, was founded later in 1872. This new city was about 30 miles northeast, built along the new Central Pacific Railroad.
Sadly, the original plaque was removed by vandals, and the marker was damaged. However, the story of Fresno City remains an interesting part of California's past.
