Fresno, California
Situated near the center of the state, Fresno, California is in located near three national parks and is widely known as the agriculture capital of the world. The fifth largest city in California, Fresno offers residents first-rate amenities, an international airport as well as the promise and opportunity for growth. The splendor of the city’s natural landscape makes Fresno an ideal moving destination as well as the ultimate place to raise a family or simply grow old.
History:
The City of Fresno was founded in 1872. Situated near the center of the San Joaquin Valley, the city has earned the nickname the “Garden of the Sun" due to it agricultural prominence. Fresno is home to some of the largest and finest wineries and dried fruit companies in the world. The city itself has burned to the ground on several occasions. And, in 1884, the city was seriously damaged after a resilient floor. Luckily, in 1872, with the development of a railroad line that stretched through the valley, the town of Fresno was officially created; taking its name from the ash trees native to the valley. The city would be incorporated 13 years later, in 1885. During the decade that followed, agriculture, cotton growing and sweet wine production emerged as new industries. With the expansion of manufacturing and the success of the agriculture the City of Fresno, by the end of World War II, was widely considered a major metropolitan area.
Economy:
Agriculture is the foremost industry in the Fresno area, employing 20 percent of the workforce and providing over $3.5 billion for the city’s economy. It is estimated that one in three jobs with in the city are related to agriculture. The city is responsible for a large majority of the country’s produce, and Fresno County is the largest agricultural county in the U.S. A large food processing industry has recently developed around the agricultural activity; a number of canning, curing, drying and freezing plants are located in the area. A recent study also tapped Fresno as an ideal location for manufacturing and distribution corporations, largely due to the city’s proximity to over 35 million people. Manufacturing in the city produces farm machinery, transportation equipment, stone, clay and glass products, lumber and wood products, furniture and fixtures and electrical equipment. And government, services and trade are also important contributors to the local economy.
Tourism:
Although not typically considered a primary tourist destination, the city of Fresno is proud of its easy access to the Sierra Nevada mountain range and three national, as well as several cultural and historic attractions for residents and visitors to enjoy. Hiking, mountain biking and camping are some of the cities most popular activities, while nearby Huntington Lake attracts sail boating and canoeing. Head over to the Fresno Art Museum. The museum preserves, collects and exhibits a compilation of valuable art and history pieces. Experience a wide range of contemporary and modern works by local, national and international artists. Next, visit the Fresno Chaffee Zoo. The Chafee Zoo and Zoological Society encourage you to explore the jungles right in Fresno. This zoo is sure to bring out the animal in everyone. For the sports fanatic, cheer on the Fresno State Bulldogs at one of the schools many NCCA (division I) sporting events. At night, relax at one of the city’s numerous dive bars or one of its late-night diners.
Colleges/Universities:
• California State University, Fresno
• Fresno City College
Interesting Facts:
• Joseph Spinney was mayor of the city for only ten minutes due to corrupt practices.
• The city’s name is derived from a Spanish word for ash tree.
• Fictional residents of the town were portrayed in a 1986 comedic miniseries titled "Fresno." The show featured Carol Burnett, Teri Garr and Charles Grodin.
Helpful Links:
• Fresno Real Estate
• Fresno Dental Offices
• Fresno Insurance
• Fresno Box Companies
• Fresno Moving Companies