Adventure 003, Site 029 – Fresno Flat

Sherri and Oakhurst Centennial Sign

 Capture California, the Game-2013
Adventure: 003, Site 029 – Fresno Flat
California Point of Interest ID: P845


Team: YOLT
Date:  August 20, 2013
Location:
Coordinates: 37° 19.583′ N, 119° 38.983′ W

Address: Oakhurst

Description:
Date Built: 1856



On our way home from the hike, we decided to visit the Oakhurst Historical Park. This area is where Oakhurst has moved several of its historical buildings to preserve and remember the town as it was. This includes buildings like the Cunningham schoolhouse and the old Raymond Jail. When the town was first created, it was called Fresno Flats—which is about 40+ miles outside of Fresno. Of course, Fresno was not where it was then either. If you ever wondered why the Fresno River goes through Madera and not Fresno, you can look at Oakhurst, where the Fresno River also flows through. Then the pieces come together and you realize the town of Fresno Flats stood here.



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Cunningham School

Fresno Flats was a farming and supply center for the mining and lumber industries. The local blacksmith was known throughout the area as the only one able to fabricate and repair large wheels. The oldest still-operating in Madera County Post Office opened here in 1874. Tired of hearing "Fresno Flats, That's where Charlie Meyers robbed the Yosemite Stage!", Mrs. C Meyers circulated a petition among newcomers to change the name to Oakhurst. Without the knowledge or consent of the pioneer families it became Oakhurst in 1912. The disgruntled oldtimers nicknamed it "Oh, Cursed!" The Old Missouri Saloon is to the East and the blacksmith barn to the West. From HMDB



References:

• HMDB
• Fresno Flats
  

Overall Landmark References:

• State of California Historical Resources (CHR)
  
• Historical Marker Database (HMDB)
  

Raymond Jail