Community

About Chowchilla

Discover interesting facts, history, and more about the City of Chowchilla.

1. Chowchilla History

   The colorful past of what would become Chowchilla and Madera County began in the spring of 1844 when John Fremont and his party made their way across the region.

2. Interesting Facts About Chowchilla

   Discover interesting facts about Chowchilla.

3. 1976 Bus Kidnapping

   On July 15, 1976, a busload of children aged 5 to 14, and their school bus driver, Ed Ray (then 55), were abducted on a country road in Madera County about 4 p.m. on their way back from a swim outing at the fairgrounds. It was a crime that transfixed the nation and affected many people in our quiet farming community.

4. Edward Ray - A Local Hero

   Thursday, July 15, 1976 plunged the Chowchilla area communities into darkness, but also into the national new spotlight when a school bus with 26 children ages 5 to 14 years along with the bus driver had disappeared. Nearly 30 hours later, on July 17, Dairyland and Chowchilla rejoiced in the BEST day ever when the 26 children and their bus driver walked up to a night watchman at a rock quarry in Livermore, California, 100 miles away, all safe and secure.

5. Chowchilla Western Stampede Cattle Drive

   The annual spring Chowchilla Western Stampede Cattle Drive down the main street of Robertson Boulevard in Chowchilla, California first began on Friday, March 28, 1958.

Chowchilla Fairgrounds

Visit the Chowchilla Fairgrounds website for information about the annual spring fair and other events throughout the year.

Beautify Chowchilla

Volunteers gathering to complete projects around the city to beautify Chowchilla.

Online Community Services

View various online services regarding the work of the City.

1. Community News

   Read current news and announcements.

2. Online Bill Payment FAQs

   View frequently asked questions regarding how to pay available bills to be paid online.

3. Report a Concern

   Notify us about a general concern, comment, or compliment.

Parks & Facilities

Check out area parks, facilities, and a list of their amenities.

Community Events

Access calendars to view upcoming events.

Summer Series of Events

1. Science in the Park

2. Movies in the Park

3. Summer Market

4. Music in the Park

5. Open Swim Program

Centennial Celebration

City Maps

View location details for major points and locations in Chowchilla.

FAQs

Discover the answers to the most frequently asked questions regarding the services and departments of Chowchilla.

Press and Media Release