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Chico, California

Located in Butte County, California, Chico was established in 1860. Chico absorbed thousands of refugees after the 2018 Camp Fire destroyed nearby Paradise. Bidwell Park is one of the largest municipal parks in the U.S.
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Founded 1860 | Population 101,000 | Peak 101,000 (2024) | County Butte County

Top 10 Most Important Events for Chico, California

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1860Founded by John Bidwell: Pioneer founds city in northern Sacramento Valley.
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1887Chico State Founded: California State University campus.
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1910Economic Development: Chico grew through the automobile industry.
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1987Party School Reputation: Playboy ranks Chico State #1 party school.
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2018Camp Fire Refugees: Paradise fire survivors flood into Chico.
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Latest News in Chico

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Complete Historical Timeline

1860 Culture
Founded by John Bidwell
1887 Culture
Chico State Founded
1910 Industry
Economic Development
1987 Culture
Party School Reputation
2018 Disaster
Camp Fire Refugees

Did You Know?

1
Chico absorbed thousands of refugees after the 2018 Camp Fire destroyed nearby Paradise.
2
Bidwell Park is one of the largest municipal parks in the U.S.
3
Chico State has shed its party school image for strong sustainability programs.
4
Chico is located in Butte County, California.
5
Chico was founded in 1860.
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