Roth's Spur

Historical marker location:
22568 Ave 196, Strathmore, California
( Marker is on Avenue 196 east of North Belt Drive, on the left when traveling east.)
Marker installed: 1981

Strathmore

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The first female mayor in the U.S. was elected in California in 1887. Susanna M. Salter was elected mayor of Argonia, Kansas, but she was born in California and later moved to Kansas with her husband.
Tulare County, located in central California, has a rich and diverse history dating back thousands of years. Before European settlement, the area was inhabited by Native American tribes, including the Yokuts and Tule River tribes, who relied on the fertile land and abundant water resources for their sustenance.

The first European explorers arrived in the area in the 18th century, with Spanish missionaries establishing missions in nearby regions. In 1822, Mexico gained independence from Spain, and Tulare County became part of Mexico's Alta California. The region's agricultural potential attracted American settlers, who began migrating to the area in the mid-19th century.

In 1852, Tulare County was carved out of Mariposa County, making it one of California's original 27 counties. The county experienced a boom during the California Gold Rush, as people passed through the area on their way to the goldfields. Agriculture, particularly wheat production, became the dominant industry in the late 19th century, attracting more settlers to the region.

The late 19th and early 20th centuries saw significant growth and development in Tulare County. The arrival of the Southern Pacific Railroad in 1872 helped facilitate transportation and trade in the area, leading to further economic expansion. With the advent of irrigation technologies and the construction of reservoirs, the county became a major producer of citrus fruits, cotton, and dairy products.

Today, Tulare County remains an important agricultural hub, known for its fertile land and diverse range of crops. The county is also home to iconic landmarks such as Sequoia National Park, which attracts visitors from around the world. While agriculture remains central to the county's economy, Tulare County has also diversified into industries such as healthcare, manufacturing, and tourism, ensuring its continued growth and prosperity.

This timeline provides a glimpse into the major events and milestones that have shaped the history of Tulare County, California.

  • 1852 - Tulare County is established by the California Legislature
  • 1855 - The town of Visalia is founded
  • 1861 - The county courthouse is built in Visalia
  • 1873 - The Southern Pacific Railroad reaches Tulare County
  • 1890 - The city of Tulare is incorporated
  • 1891 - The first irrigation district in the county is formed
  • 1904 - Sequoia National Park is established, encompassing a portion of Tulare County
  • 1940s - Tulare County becomes a major producer of agricultural commodities
  • 1965 - The California Health Sciences University is founded in Tulare County
  • 1995 - The Tule River Indian Reservation is established