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flag  History of Fresno, California, USA

Journey back in time to Fresno, California, USA

Explore Fresno, California, USA! Uncover its rich history and discover the stories of the people who once called it home. Dive into old newspaper articles, vintage pictures, postcards, and genealogy to learn more about this fascinating town.

Do You Have Fresno Ancestry? Share YOUR Family Story!

Fresno, California, USA - Fresno, California, USA - Kearney Drive, Fresno, Calif.

Fresno, Fresno, California, USA

Fresno proclaims itself the Raisin Capital of the World.

50states.com

Explore even more about Fresno, California, USA. Keep reading!

Fresno Nostalgia: Vintage Photos, Ads, and Postcards

Fresno, California, USA - Kearney Drive, Fresno, Calif.
Fresno, California, USA

Postcard
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Kearney Drive, Fresno, Calif.
Fresno, California, USA - Post Office and Court House
Fresno, California, USA

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Post Office and Court House
Fresno, California, USA - Hall's Drive-In Restaurant
Fresno, California, USA

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Hall's Drive-In Restaurant

"Hall's Drvie-In Restaurant was a popular spot to stop on US Highway 99. It was located south of Fresno at US Highway 99 and Church Avenue, a half mile south of the Monterey Overpass. A restaurant operates at that location today."

Fresno by John Reynolds, Michael J. Semas
Arcadia Publishing, Jan 7, 2013

Discover Unique Gift Ideas from or related to Fresno

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California Dreamin' Ancestry Coffee Mug - Genealogy

Showcasing a witty caption that reads, "I'm from California! That explains a lot about my love for surfing at sunrise and wine tasting at sunset," this mug is designed to bring a smile to your face with every sip.

Lake Tahoe Shower Curtain - Crystal Clear Waters with Mark Twain Quote - Nature-Inspired Bathroom Décor

Transform your bathroom into a serene escape with this Lake Tahoe Shower Curtain, featuring the breathtaking crystal-clear waters of Lake Tahoe and an inspiring quote from Mark Twain. Whether you want to relive your favorite Tahoe memories, bring the beauty of the lake inside your home, or add a stunning touch to your Lake Tahoe vacation rental, this shower curtain is the perfect addition to any nature lover’s space. Designed to complement a Lake Tahoe home, it enhances the ambiance with a refreshing, tranquil vibe that captures the lake’s timeless allure.

Patriotic Memories: Memorial Day Vintage Postcard Coffee Mug

Remembering the Brave, Honoring the Fallen Celebrate the spirit of Memorial Day with this stunning ceramic coffee mug featuring vintage postcards commemorating the holiday. Perfect for honoring the brave men and women who served, this mug is both a functional keepsake and a nostalgic work of art. Whether you're sipping your morning coffee or enjoying an afternoon tea, this dishwasher-safe and microwave-friendly mug is a timeless way to show your patriotism. Ideal as a gift for veterans, history buffs, or anyone who cherishes American traditions, this mug makes Memorial Day even more meaningful.

Discover Fresno: History, News, Travel, and Stories

Add informationAdd History/News/Story
1895 - Fresno
Fresno, a flourishing city, the capital of Fresno co., Cal., at the geographical centre of the state, on the Southern Pacific Railroad, 210 miles by rail S.E. of San Francisco. It has 9 churches, 6 banks, an excellent system of public schools, including a high school, and manufactures of lumber, flour, and carriages. Two daily and 3 weekly news papers are published here. Fresno is situated in a productive grain- and fruit-growing region, in the San Joaquin Valley, and is especially noted for the raisin product of its vicinity. Over $10,000,000 worth of fruits, cereals, and wool are received and shipped here in favorable seasons. Pop. in 1880, 11.12; in 1890, 10,818.
Lippincott's Gazetteer of the World: A Complete Pronouncing Gazetteer Or Geographical Dictionary of the World Containing Notices of Over One Hundred and Twenty-five Thousand Places ... Joseph Thomas January 1, 1895 J.B. Lippincott
1910 - September 14-15 - Rains of .27 inch on the 14th and .73 inch on the 15th were the earliest and heaviest of record for Fresno CA, which, along with much of California, experiences a "rainy season" in the winter.

The Weather Channel
1915 - INCENDIARY FIRE IN FRESNO - Blaze Threatens Business District. Man Confesses to Starting Fire.
FRESNO. Nov. 29. - After fire wrought $30,000 damage in Frank Hickman's store and threatened to spread ruin throughout the business section early today. Arson charges were filed this afternoon against Hickman and his head salesman W. H. Jenks.

Jenks, it is claimed, confessed he made preparations for firing the store with Hickman's knowledge and approval.

Jenks was thrown into jail but Hickman is in San Francisco.

According to Jenks' story, everything was in readiness to torch the store, when a gas jet ignited the goods.
Riverside Daily Press
Riverside, California
November 29, 1915
1916
Fresno, a city, the capital of Fresno co., Cal., on the Southern Pacific and the Atchison, Topeka and Santa Fe Rs., 208 miles SE. of San Francisco. It is situated in a productive grain- and fruit-growing region, in the San Joaquin Valley, and is especially noted for the raisin product in its vicinity. Much wine is also made here. It is a large shipping point for fruit, cereals, and wool, and has petroleum interests. St. Mary's College is located here. Pop. in 1880, 1112 ; in 1890, 10,818 ; in 1900, 12,470.
Lippincotts New Gazetteer: A Complete Pronouncing Gazetteer Or Geographical Dictionary of the World, Containing the Most Recent and Authentic Information Respecting the Countries, Cities, Towns, Resorts, Islands, Rivers, Mountains, Seas, Lakes, Etc., in Every Portion of the Globe, Part 1 Angelo Heilprin Louis Heilprin - January 1, 1916 J.B. Lippincott - Publisher
1920 - March 22-23 - A spectacular display of the Northern Lights was visible as far south as Bradenton FL, El Paso TX, and Fresno CA.

The Weather Channel
1922 - March 23 - KMJ-AM in Fresno CA begins radio transmissions

historyorb.com
1953 - June 1 - KMJ TV channel 24 in Fresno, CA (NBC) begins broadcasting

historyorb.com
Here's a list of places to go and things to do in Fresno:
Forestiere Underground Gardens:

Explore the fascinating underground gardens created by Baldassare Forestiere, an immigrant from Sicily. The gardens feature unique architecture and a variety of fruit-bearing trees.

Fresno Chaffee Zoo:

Spend a day at the Fresno Chaffee Zoo, home to over 190 species of animals. It's a fantastic place for families and animal lovers.

Woodward Regional Park:

Enjoy the outdoors at Woodward Park. It has beautiful lakes, walking trails, and picnic areas. The Shinzen Japanese Garden within the park is especially serene.

Tower District:

Experience the vibrant arts and culture scene in the Tower District. You'll find eclectic shops, art galleries, and an array of restaurants and bars.

Fresno Art Museum:

If you appreciate art, visit the Fresno Art Museum. It features contemporary and modern art from local and international artists.

Meux Home Museum:

Step back in time by visiting the Meux Home Museum. This Victorian mansion offers... Read MORE...

Discover YOUR Roots: Fresno Ancestry

Ancestors Who Were Born or Died in Fresno, California, USA

We currently have information about 23 ancestors who were born or died in Fresno.

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Ancestors Who Were Married in Fresno, California, USA

We currently have information about ancestors who were married in Fresno.

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Updated: 10/15/2023 8:54:46 AM