McMullin, California facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
McMullin
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Former settlement
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 McMullin
Location in California
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| Country | United States |
| State | California |
| County | Fresno County |
| Elevation | 226 ft (69 m) |
McMullin was once a small community or "settlement" in Fresno County, California. It is no longer an active town or village, which is why it's called a "former settlement." This means people used to live there, but over time, the community faded away.
McMullin was located about 12.5 miles (20.1 km) southwest of downtown Fresno. It sat at an elevation of 226 feet (69 meters) above sea level. This small place was important because it was built along the Southern Pacific Railroad line. Even in 1923, McMullin could still be found on maps of the area.
What Was McMullin?
McMullin was a small place where people lived and worked, likely supporting the nearby railroad or farming. In the past, many small settlements like McMullin grew up around important transportation routes, especially railroads. These railroads helped move goods and people across the country.
A "settlement" is simply a place where people have built homes and created a community. When we say "former settlement," it means that the community no longer exists as it once did. The buildings might be gone, or very few people might live there now.
Where Was It Located?
McMullin was situated in Fresno County, which is in the central part of California. This area is known for its rich agricultural lands. The county is a major producer of fruits, vegetables, and nuts.
The exact spot of McMullin was southwest of the city of Fresno. Being near a railroad was key to its existence. Railroads were like the highways of the past, connecting towns and helping them grow.
Why Do Places Disappear?
It might seem strange for a town to just disappear, but it happened often in history. Many small settlements, especially those tied to specific industries like mining or railroads, would fade away if those industries changed.
The Role of Railroads
The Southern Pacific Railroad was a very important railway system in the western United States. It helped develop many parts of California. Towns like McMullin often started as stops or service points along these rail lines.
However, if a railroad line was moved, or if a new, bigger town grew nearby, smaller settlements might lose their purpose. People would then move to other places for work or better opportunities. This could lead to a settlement becoming "former," like McMullin.
