'Oldest city between Los Angeles and French Camp'
Incorporated in 1852, Visalia has many historic sites to see and unusual stories to tell. From wild west outlaws like the Dalton gang escaping from the jail to secret tunnels that criss-cross under the streets of downtown, come discover these fun and historic sites.
HISTORIC SITES IN DOWNTOWN
HORSE RINGS
Can you find them? Look carefully along the original granite curbing around downtown to see the reminders of days when a horse was the mode of transportation.
VISALIA CEMETERY
Cemeteries are great historical sites and Visalia Cemetery is no exception. See grave sites from the mid-1850's for Mary Graves Clark, survivor of the ill-fated Donner Party or Edmond E. Wysinger, a former slave born in 1816 whose quest to enroll his son in school went all the way to the Supreme Court.
MOONEY GROVE MUSEUM
The museum houses many interesting and historical items. Along with buildings from the 1800's like Surprise School House there are artifacts from the Pioneer era as well as these notable items:
VISALIA SADDLERY
Around the 1860's Mexican saddle makers developed the Visalia Saddle. They are known throughout the world even today. Find early examples on display.
NATIVE AMERICAN BASKETS
See one of the largest collections in California on display and other Native american artifacts.
These are just a few examples of historic places in Visalia. Get a copy of our "Historic Walking Tour" brochure to learn more about these sites and more.
Wild West Tour (PDF Version)
