Kingsburg began in the early 1870's when the Central Pacific Railroad was built and the train stop was named Kings River Switch. It was later called Wheatville, then Kingsbury in 1874, and Kingsburgh in 1875. With its share of saloons and bandits, it was considered one of the toughest towns to live in. On Decemeber 1, 1875, Josiah Draper and his friends established the first residence and named the town Kingsburg. Through the influx and help of a diversity of cultures and religions, the community began to civilize itself. On May 18, 1908 the Town of Kingsburg was officially incorporated.