Kings County: History, Art and Activities on the Kings River

Kings County can be explored through a variety of themes: the history of settlement and transportation, art in Hanford, and recreational activities on the Kings River. The Kings County Museum collects, preserves, researches and displays objects relating to the history of the county and the lower Kings River region. Historic sites and buildings offer a closer look at specific stories from different periods.

Places and stories from several eras

Kingston was founded in 1856 by L. A. Whitmore. After 1858, the town became a stagecoach stop on the Butterfield Overland Mail route. Its founding year and later role in transportation mark two distinct stages in its history. El Adobe de los Robles Rancho also dates to 1856: the adobe building has been restored and continuously inhabited since it was built. It is described as the second-oldest building of its kind in the San Joaquin Valley.

In Hanford, the Taoist Temple stands at 12 China Alley; it was built in 1893. Another glimpse into history can be found at Courthouse Square in Hanford, which includes the original Kings County Courthouse. It was built in 1896. Together, the two buildings offer a look at different places and construction dates within Hanford, taking you from the history of the 19th century to distinct sites around the city.

The Mussel Slough Tragedy is also part of the county’s history. On May 11, 1880, a fight broke out at the historic site during a dispute between settlers and the railroad over land titles. Seven men died: two U.S. deputy marshals and five ranchers. The date, cause and death toll give the site a somber historical context, clearly distinct from the construction and transportation history of other attractions.

Art and everyday life in Hanford

The Kings Art Center exhibits artworks from across California as well as by local artists. It also offers hands-on art education for Kings County residents and visitors. The center offers weekday tours by appointment for school classes and groups. If you plan to take a group tour, be sure to arrange it in advance.

The Thursday Night Market Place in Downtown Hanford offers a glimpse of food and handcrafted goods. There you’ll find locally grown produce as well as artisan foods and goods. This complements the museum and art offerings with regional products and goods from local makers.

Oaks and outdoor recreation

Burris Park has old oak trees, as well as disc golf and space for soccer games. If you plan to enjoy one of these activities, check the latest park information before your visit, as offerings may change.

The Kings River and the county’s waterways are also used for a variety of recreational activities. The entire stretch of the Kings River in Kings County is used by the public for fishing. The county’s waterways are also used for boating and floating on inner tubes or other inflatables. Where access is lawful, the riverbed is used for hiking, exploring, walking dogs and horseback riding.

Most access points to the Kings River in Kings County used for recreation and boating are privately owned or controlled by the Kings River Conservation District. It is therefore advisable to ask permission before visiting river areas. The river activities listed require lawful access; plan accordingly and distinguish between using the waterways and accessing a specific area along the riverbank.

Getting around the region

Hanford is a commercial and cultural center in the southern San Joaquin Valley and the county seat of Kings County. Kings Area Rural Transit provides public transportation in the region to Armona, Avenal, Corcoran, Grangeville, Hardwick, Hanford, Kettleman City, Laton, Lemoore and Stratford. If you plan to use public transportation, check the relevant schedule before traveling.

Discover more destinations: Hanford, Kettleman City, Lemoore, Corcoran and Avenal.

Discover more destinations: Alameda, Glenn County and Mendocino.

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