Tule River Stage Station

Porter Putnam kept this station in 1860 and founded Porterville four years later, and the town carries his name. The miners at Tailholt remembered him less warmly: one recalled that Porterville was only a trading post then, and that it was cheaper to haul supplies three weeks from Stockton by bull team than to trade with Royal Porter Putnam. Peter Goodhue had opened the stopping place on the Tule River in 1854, and it lasted until the river changed its course in 1862. The city made the small park around the plaque.

What the plaque says

Tule River Stage Station Here Peter Goodhue operated an emigrant trail stopping place on the bank of Tule River from 1854 until the river changed its course in 1862. This became a Butterfield Overland Mail stage station, 1858-61. It was kept in 1860 by R. Porter Putnam who in 1864 founded Porterville, named for him. Historical Landmark No. 473 California State Park Commission Base furnished by Tulare County Historical Society and Grand Parlor, Native Daughters of the Golden West. Park established by City of Porterville. Dedicated October 11, 1953

Where it stands

More markers nearby

• First Tule River Indian Reservation — 3.3 mi
• Butterfield Stage Route — 9.7 mi
• Fountain Springs — 14 mi
• Tulare Assembly Center — 20 mi