Every city has its stories, but some places have more interesting history hiding in plain sight than others. Fairfield, California, is a great example.
Located in Solano County between the San Francisco Bay Area and Sacramento region, Fairfield has a history that reaches back much further than many people realize. Here are a few fun facts about the city.
1. Fairfield Was Named After Another Fairfield
Fairfield was laid out in 1856 by Captain Robert H. Waterman, a clipper-ship captain who had traveled around the world multiple times.
He named the California community after his hometown of Fairfield, Connecticut.
2. Fairfield Has Been the County Seat Since 1858
Fairfield became the Solano County seat in 1858 after voters approved moving the county seat from Benicia.
Waterman donated 16 acres for county buildings, helping establish Fairfield's role as an important center of government.
3. Fairfield Wasn't Incorporated Until 1903
Although the town was established decades earlier, Fairfield wasn't formally incorporated as a city until December 12, 1903.
That means the community had already been around for nearly half a century before officially becoming a city.
4. The Area Has Thousands of Years of History
Artifacts discovered in nearby Green Valley have been dated to thousands of years ago. The area was home to Indigenous communities long before Fairfield became the city we know today.
5. Fairfield Is Closely Connected to Travis Air Force Base
Travis Air Force Base was established east of Fairfield in 1942 and has played an important role in the area's economy and history ever since.
The base later became Travis Air Force Base and was annexed into Fairfield in 1966.
6. Jelly Belly Calls Fairfield Home
Yes, those colorful little jelly beans are part of Fairfield's story.
Fairfield is home to the Jelly Belly Candy Company, whose factory has become a well-known attraction for visitors.
7. Fairfield Is Close to Wine Country
Fairfield sits near Suisun Valley and Green Valley, areas known for vineyards and wineries.
So Fairfield residents don't have to go very far to enjoy Northern California wine country.
8. Fairfield Sits Between Major California Destinations
Fairfield's location puts it roughly between San Francisco and Sacramento, while Napa Valley is also nearby.
Its location along major transportation routes has helped Fairfield grow into an important community for residents and businesses.
A City With More Stories Than You Might Expect
Fairfield may not always get the same attention as San Francisco, Sacramento, or Napa, but that's part of its charm. Its history combines agriculture, transportation, military influence, food, wine, business, and a diverse community.
Sometimes the most interesting places aren't the ones with the biggest headlines—they're the ones with the best stories.
