Oakhurst in Madera County, California — The American West (Pacific Coastal)
Fresno Flats Townsite
1856
Photographed By Lester J Letson, October 12, 2012
1. Fresno Flats Townsite Marker
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.Erected 1997 by Grup Culch Chapter, E Clampus Vitus.
Topics and series. This historical marker is listed in these topic lists: Industry & Commerce • Settlements & Settlers. In addition, it is included in the E Clampus Vitus series list. A significant historical year for this entry is 1874.
Location. 37° 19.583′ N, 119° 38.983′ W. Marker is in Oakhurst, California, in Madera County. Marker is at the intersection
this page online
Other nearby markers. At least 8 other markers are within 4 miles of this marker, measured as the crow flies. Old French Trail (within shouting distance of this marker); Highway 49 - The Golden Chain (approx. half a mile away); Oakhurst Centennial (approx. 0.6 miles away); Little Church on the Hill (approx. 0.6 miles away); Giant Sequoia Cutting (approx. 0.7 miles away); Gold Rush Entertainment Lives On (approx. 2˝ miles away); Bissett Station (approx. 2.8 miles away); Madera Sugar Pine Flume (approx. 3.7 miles away). Touch for a list and map of all markers in Oakhurst.
Regarding Fresno Flats Townsite. Fresno Flats was one of the earliest settlements in Fresno County. When it was established, Madera County was part of Fresno County, and there was no city of Fresno yet in Fresno County.
Photographed By Lester J Letson, October 12, 2012
2. Fresno Flats Townsite Marker
Marker sits in front of a Sierra Telephone maintenance lot.
Photographed By Unknown, circa 1890
3. Fresno Flats
From an E Clampus Vitus pamphlet. The word Saloon can be seen on the building to the right.
Photographed By Lester J Letson, October 12, 2012
4. Old building near the marker
This is likely the old blacksmith shop referred to on the marker.
Credits. This page was last revised on June 16, 2016. It was originally submitted on October 15, 2012, by Lester J Letson of Fresno, California. This page has been viewed 751 times since then and 63 times this year. Photos: 1, 2, 3, 4. submitted on October 15, 2012, by Lester J Letson of Fresno, California. • Syd Whittle was the editor who published this page.
