FOWLER'S story began with the railroad, a state senator and the senator’s cattle. Thomas Fowler and Thomas Davis came west to California in 1853 with the intention of heading to the gold fields. Instead, they got into the cattle business. They purchased a large acreage along the Kings River near Minkler and Sanger. Their cattle carried the “76” brand and ranged across the valley.
As his empire and influence grew, Fowler decided to enter politics. In September of 1869, he was elected to the state senate.
When the Central Pacific Railroad began to lay track south of Fresno Station, Senator Fowler saw it as a perfect chance to find an efficient way to get his cattle to market. He arranged for a switch to be placed 10 miles south of Fresno. Fowler’s first shipment of cattle left Fowler Switch right after it opened in August of 1872.
As the area grew, people began talking about incorporating. In 1908, an election was held to decide the matter but there was one major issue -- would alcoholic beverages be sold in Fowler or not! The campaign was heated. On election day, May 26, 1908, 97 percent of the voters in Fowler voted and incorporation passed. Two weeks later, the sale of liquor in Fowler was banned and remained so until 1933.
Fowler boasts a fine high school and many businesses but still remains a small town set in the midst of lush vineyards and farmland.
Historical Information from "The Heartland's Heritage", written by Catherine Rehart
| Fowler Wagon Train Schedule | ||
| Assembly Information: | Sunday, April 9th | |
| 4:00 pm | ||
| Fowler High School | ||
| 701 E. Main Street | ||
| Participating School: | Fremont Elementary | |
| Malaga Elementary | ||
| Superintendent: | John Cruz | |
| Evening Schedule: | 5:00 pm | Dinner |
| 6:00 -- 9:00 pm | Wagon Train Activities | |
| 9:00 pm | Camp Lights Out | |
| Departure Information: | Monday, April 10th | |
| 9:00 am | ||
| Morning Schedule: | 6:00 am | Rise |
| 7:00 -- 8:00 am | Breakfast & Chores | |
| 8:00 -- 9:00 am | Preparation For Departure | |
| 9:00 am | Head to Selma! | |
Please Contact Carole Lester, Fresno Historical Society for further
details.
559.441.0862 fresnocounty150@aol.com
Check back to this page for images from
the Sesquicentennial Wagon Train as we
“Celebrate The Journey” through Fresno County!