| New Brunswick (Saint John County), Saint John — Carleton Martello Tower |
| | Construction of this tower was begun by the British Army during the War of 1812 as one of the projected series of fortifications intended to block the western land approach to Saint John. Subsequent to its completion in 1815 the tower was largely neglected, seeing only occasional use in times of emergency, including service as a fire control headquarters in the second world war. The original structure typifies the English martello tower design, a popular form of coastal defence in the British . . . — Map (db m539) |
| Ontario, Niagara on the Lake — Niagara on the Lake Historical District |
| | (Left side is in English)
In 1778, Loyalist refugees began crossing from Fort Niagara to settle the west bank of the Niagara River. A town was laid out in a grid pattern of four-acre blocks and grew quickly, gaining prominence as the first capital of Upper Canada from 1792 to 1796. Following Niagara’s destruction during the war of 1812, the citizens rebuilt, mainly in the British Classical architectural tradition, creating a group of structures closely related in design, materials, and . . . — Map (db m24585) |
| Ireland, Leinster (County Dublin), Dublin — Fusiliers’ Arch |
| | In memory of the officers, non-commissioned officers and men of the Royal Dublin Fusiliers who fell in the South African War A.D.1899·1900
Fortissimis suis militibus hoc monumentum eblana dedicavit MCMVII
Hartshill•Ladysmith•Talana•Colenso•
Tulega Heights•Laings Nek
Fusiliers' Arch [Inscription is from the Monuments of St. Stephen's Green
marker found in the park]
The form of this arch, 12 feet in width, is that of a Roman Triumphal Arch. It stands 32 feet 6 inches high. . . . — Map (db m22470) |
| Ireland, Leinster (County Dublin), Dublin — Leinster House — Malton Trail |
| | Since 1924, Leinster House has been the seat of the two houses of the Oireachtas, Dail and Seanad (Irish Parliament and Senate), who meet here a total of 90 days a year.
Designed in 1745 by the architect Richard Cassels, who also designed the Lying-In Hospital off Parnell Square, it was built as a town residence for the duke of Leinster on what was then known as Molesworth Fields, adding a character to the area that has remained to this day.
This view is one of many superb quality . . . — Map (db m22459) |
| Ireland, Leinster (County Dublin), Dublin — Saint Patrick’s Park — Páirc Naomh Pádraig |
| | Tradition has it that Saint Patrick baptised the first Irish Christians in a well, situated here in St. Patrick's Park, with water from the River Poddle, which still flows underground. A small wooden church was erected here to commemorate the event. The parish church on this site was known as Saint Patrick's in Insula (on the island) because it was located on an island between two branches of the River Poddle. In 1191 John Comyn, the first Anglo-Norman Archbishop of Dublin, gave the church the . . . — Map (db m22468) |
| Ireland, Leinster (County Dublin), Dublin — St. Patrick's Cathedral — Malton Trail |
| | This majestic view of St. Patrick's Cathedral, Dublin is a colour reproduction from a series of original aquatints etched by James Malton, whose work, A Picturesque and Descriptive View of the City of Dublin, gives us a glimpse of Dublin at the close of the 18th-century.
Malton was “struck with admiration at the beauty of the capital of Ireland and was anxious to make a display of it to the world”.
It is here that St. Patrick was said to have baptised converts to Christianity . . . — Map (db m22465) |
| Ireland, Leinster (County Meath), Donaghmore — Donaghmore Church and Round Tower — Domhnach Mór agus Cloightheach |
| | Donaghmore Church and Round Tower
A monastery was reputedly founded here in the 5th century by St Patrick, who placed it in the care of St Cassán, whose relics were venerated here. The Round Tower was not built until the 11th or 12th century. It is well-preserved, but its upper part was badly restored in 1841 - the four windows which normally face North, South, East and West from the top of Round Towers are not found here, and the stone at the top of its roof is missing. . . . — Map (db m22542) |
| Ireland, Leinster (County Meath), Newgrange — The Woodhenge/Pit circle / The Winter Soltice |
| | The Woodhenge/Pit circle
If you were here 4000 years ago in the Early Bronze Age you would be standing inside a large wooden enclosure. The passage tomb was no longer in use at this time but the site was still a focal point for ritual and celebration.
Because the enclosure was made of wood, it hasn't survived above ground. However, evidence of it was found by archaeologists. They found postholes where the huge wooden stakes had been. They also found pits where small animals had been . . . — Map (db m22522) |
| Ireland, Munster (County Clare), Kilfenora — Historic Kilfenora / Cill Fhionnúrach Stairiúil |
| | Historic Kilfenora
The monastery of Kilfenora or Chill Fhionnúrach (the church of the white brow) is said to have been founded in the 6th century by St. Fachnan. The outline of the early monastic circular enclosure can still be traced in the curve of the roads to the south and west of the cathedral.
The early history of the site is obscure, with the first historical reference occurring in 1055 when the stone church at the site was burned. The material remains, in particular the group . . . — Map (db m23694) |
| Ireland, Munster (County Kerry), Dunquin — The Blaskets |
| | This group, the most westerly off the Irish coast, comprises 7 sizeable islands and isolated rocks spread in a line west by south over 2½ miles of the Atlantic, the largest (Great Blasket) 2 miles off shore.
Antiquities of the early Christian period include oratories, crosses and “beehive” cells on Inis Mhicileáin and Inis Tuaisceart, and church ruins on the Great Blasket.
The economy of the islands, based mainly on fishing with some farming, in 1839 supported 13 . . . — Map (db m24096) |
| Alabama (Dallas County), Cahaba — Cahaba First State Capital — 1818-1826 |
| | This stone marks the site of Cahaba, selected November 21, 1818 as the first permanent capital of Alabama. The seat of goverment remaining here until removed to Tuscaloosa by the Legislature, January 1825.
On December 13, 1819, it was fixed as the Seat of Justice of Dallas County, and so continued until December 14, 1865.
As state capital and as county seat, Cahaba was representative of the best in the life of a Great Commonwealth.
Erected by the Alabama Centennial Commission and . . . — Map (db m22609) |
| Alabama (Etowah County), Gadsden — Dwight Mill Village |
| | Dwight Manufacturing Company of Chicopee, Massachusetts selected this site in Alabama City for a cotton mill in 1894. The Mill and the village covering 240 acres was constructed under the direction of Howard Gardner Nichols.
There were 160 New England style cottages in the original construction plan, each home had a distinctive architectural style and color scheme. Later construction brought the total number of homes in the village to 700. This model Village was designed with its own . . . — Map (db m18575) |
| Alabama (Jefferson County), Birmingham — Sloss Furnaces |
| | The crossing of railroads in 1872 adjacent to this site gave rise to the industrial city of Birmingham. In 1881 Alabama railroad magnate and entrepreneur James Withers Sloss, capitalizing on the unusual coincidence of coal, iron ore and limestone in the area, founded the Sloss Furnace Company as an iron manufacturer and built blast furnaces beside the railroad crossing. Production of pig iron at Sloss Furnaces began in 1882 and continued for almost 90 years. Early 20th century additions to the . . . — Map (db m23498) |
| Alaska (Fairbanks North Star Borough), Fox — Pipeline History |
| | On November 16, 1973, through Presidential approval of pipeline legilation, Alyeska Pipeline Service Company received
permission to begin construction of the 800-mile trans Alaska pipeline, its pump stations and the Marine Terminal at
Valdez. The 360-mile road from the Yukon River to Prudhoe Bay was built, and construction of the Valdez Terminal was
begun in 1974.At the same time, work started on pump stations and the pipeline work pad.
The lengths of pipe were placed under the . . . — Map (db m20215) |
| Alaska (Skagway Hoonah Angoon Borough), Skagway — Fatal Duel |
| | Frank Reid, guarding the approach to Sylvester's Wharf, where the vigilantes were meeting to restore law and order, shot "Soapy Smith" who failed to stop when challenged, July 8, 1898. — Map (db m14505) |
| Alaska (Skagway Hoonah Angoon Borough), Skagway — Skagway and White Pass |
| | has been designated a
Registered National
Historic Landmark
Under the provisions of the Historic Sites Act of August 24, 1935, this site possesses exceptional value in commemorating and illustrating the history of the United States — Map (db m5051) |
| Arizona (Mohave County), Lake Havasu City — London Bridge |
| | Opened By
The Right Honorable The Lord Mayor Of London
Alderman Sir Peter Studd G.B.E.M.A.D.Sc.
In The Presence Of
The Honorable Jack Williams
Governor Of Arizona
October 10, 1971
Robert P. McCulloch Sr C.V. Wood Jr.
Founder Master Planner
Lake Havasu City Lake Havasu City — Map (db m4328) |
| Arizona (Mohave County), Lake Havasu City — Robert P. McCulloch, Sr. |
| | [Upper Plaque]:
In grateful memory
Robert P. McCulloch, Sr.
Whose purchase of London Bridge
in 1968
saved it for the enjoyment and use
of prosterity
[Lower Plaque]:
October 10, 1981
on this 150th Anniverary
London Bridge
was formally dedicated to the
citizens of Lake Havasu City — Map (db m6974) |
| Arizona (Mohave County), Oatman — Oatman, Arizona — Elevation 2700 Feet |
| | Oatman was founded about 1908. By 1931,
the areas mines which had produced over
1.8 million ounces of gold. By the mid 1930's,
the boom was over and in 1942 the last
remaining mines were closed as nonessential
to the war effort.
Burros first came to Oatman with early day
prospectors. The animals were also used inside
the mines for hauling rock and ore outside the
mines. Burros were used for hauling water and
supplies. As the mines closed and people moved
away, the Burros were . . . — Map (db m18964) |
| Arizona (Santa Cruz County), Patagonia — Cady Hall — Patagonia Hotel |
| | John H. Cady came to Arizona as a solder in the 1860's and was stationed at Fort Crittenden on Sonoita Creek. Later Cady became a resident of Patagonia and in December of 1900 began building the Patagonia Hotel. He continued to add to the structure until he considered it to be one of the finest in the country.
Now knows as Cady Hall, the building is the home of the Patagonia Womens Club — Map (db m24300) |
| Arizona (Yavapai County), Prescott — Santa Fe Depot |
| | Prescott’s first railroad arrived on December 31, 1886. The current depot was built by the Santa Fe, Prescott and Phoenix Railway, also known as the “Peavine”, in 1907. Designed in the Mission Revival style of poured concrete with a barrel tile roof, it occupies a prominent location at the north end of Cortez Street and was the center of shipping and receiving in Yavapai County. The tracks were last in use on December 31, 1986, the 100th anniversary of the arrival of the railroad. . . . — Map (db m18767) |
| Arkansas (Monroe County), Holly Grove — Beginning Point of the Louisiana Purchase Survey |
| | This stone marks the base established Nov.10,1815
from which the lands of the Louisiana Purchase were surveyed by the United States Engineers. The first survey from this point was made to satisfy the claims of the soldiers of the war of 1812 with land boundries. — Map (db m6037) |
| California (Alameda County), Livermore — 641 — Concannon Vineyards |
| | Here, in 1883, James Concannon founded the Concannon Vineyard. The quality it achieved in Sacramental and commercial wines helped establish Livermore Valley as one of America’s select wine growing districts. Grape cuttings from this vineyard were introduced to Mexico between 1889 and 1904 for the improvement of its commercial viticulture.
California Registered Historical
Landmark No. 641
Plaque placed by California State Park Commission in cooperation with the Livermore Chamber . . . — Map (db m19984) |
| California (Alameda County), Livermore — 586 — Cresta Blanca Winery |
| | Here, Charles A. Wetmore planted his vineyard in 1882. The Cresta Blanca wine he made from its fruit won for California the first international award. The highest honor at the 1889 Paris Exposition. First bringing assurance to California wine growers that they could grow wines comparable to the finest in the world.
California Registered Historical Landmark No. 586
Plaque placed by California State Park Commission in cooperation with Livermore Chamber of Commerce, June 15, 1957. Rededicated by . . . — Map (db m19987) |
| California (Alameda County), Livermore — Mills Square Flag Pole — Raised September 9, 1905 |
| | Made from one log, originally 126 feet in length. 18 inch diameter at base, 5,300 pounds
Shortened 14 feet in 1959
City of Livermore
Historic Preservation Landmark Site
Dedicated July 1998 — Map (db m17785) |
| California (Alameda County), Livermore — 241 — Robert Livermore — First Settler of Livermore Valley |
| | Born in England 1799 – Died Rancho Las Positas 1858; Arrived in Monterey 1822. Married Josepa Hicutera y Puentas 1830. Settled on Rancho Las Positas 1835.
“Next to the Mission Padres, he was the first man to engage himself in the culture of grapes, fruit and grain.”
The Livermore Hacienda was a short distance north of this spot.
Erected by the Los Positas Parlor No.95, Native Sons of the Golden West
Tablet Erected by the Historic Landmarks Committee, Native . . . — Map (db m19975) |
| California (Alameda County), Livermore — 957 — Wente Bros. Winery |
| | Here the first Wente Vineyards of 47 acres was established by C.H. Wente in 1883. In 1935 his sons, Ernest and Herman, introduced California’s first varietal wine label, Sauvignon Blanc. The efforts of the Wente family have helped to establish the Livermore Valley as one of the premier wine-growing areas of California. In their centennial year, Wente Bros. is the oldest continuously operating, family-owned winery in California.
California Registered Historical Landmark No.957
Plaque . . . — Map (db m19985) |
| California (Alameda County), Niles — Completion of the Transcontinental Railroad — Niles, California |
| | “May God continue the unity of our country as this railroad unites the two great oceans of the world.” The gold spike ceremony at Promontory, Utah in May of 1869 united the tracks of the Central Pacific and Union Pacific Railroads. However the trails did not span the United States from ocean to ocean until some months later. In September the final link between San Francisco and Sacramento was completed near the Flour Mill of Jesus Vallejo, a short distance east of this location. — Map (db m24473) |
| California (Alameda County), Pleasanton — 510 — Francisco Solano Alviso Adobe |
| | This building, erected in 1844-46 by Francisco Solano Alviso, was the first adobe house to be built in the Pleasanton Valley. It was originally called Alisal-The Sycamores. Following the Battle of Sunol Canyon, General John C. Frémont withdrew to this building, which became his headquarters for several days. — Map (db m3558) |
| California (Alpine County), Kirkwood — Caples Lake |
| | In 1849 Dr. James Caples passed through here on his way to California’s gold country.
After a brief stay in Old Hangtown (Placerville) Caples remembered the lake and returned here with his family to establish a way station that served weary travelers for thirty years.
The lake known variously as Summit Lake, Clear Lake, and Twin Lakes, is two miles long and has a surface area of 600 acres.
Dedicated by the Historical Society of Alpine County. — Map (db m11048) |
| California (Alpine County), Kirkwood — Kit Carson |
| | On this spot, which marks the summit of the Kit Carson Pass stood what was known as the Kit Carson Tree on which the famous scout Kit Carson inscribed his name in 1844 when he guided the then Captain John C. Fremont, head of a government exploring expedition over the Sierra Nevada Mountains. Above is a replica of the original inscription cut from the tree in 1888 and now is in Sutter’s Fort, Sacramento. — Map (db m12032) |
| California (Alpine County), Kirkwood — 378 — Memorial to Pioneer Odd Fellows |
| | At this point in August 1849, a group of Odd Fellows nearing their goal, the California gold mines,
paused in their struggle up these granite walls to
paint on this and adjacent boulders their names
and the three links of the Great Order
They so dearly loved.
Pioneers of California
Pioneers of the Brotherhood of Man
We Salute You. Your bodies have blended with the dust of the West. Your spirit lives and inspires.
Dedicated to their memory, by the Grand Lodge of California . . . — Map (db m21293) |
| California (Alpine County), Markleeville — Ebbetts Pass — Historical Landmark |
| | Named after Major John Ebbett and pointed out in 1853 to surveyor G.H. Goodard who referred to it as a “route of great promise – probably the best one for a transcontinental railway.”
No emigrant train used this route but a stage road was completed here in 1864 to serve mining region of Silver City. — Map (db m11444) |
| California (Alpine County), Markleeville — Hermit Valley — Historical Landmark |
| | In 1856 a road was completed following the present sign route 4 from Murphys to this point, and thence northward via Faith and Charity Valleys to Hope Valley where it joined the Carson Pass Road. This connection was used by emigrants in 1856 and 1857. Remnants of the route are still visable to the north of this sign and along State Route 4 to the west. — Map (db m10316) |
| California (Amador County), Drytown — 31 — Drytown |
| | Founded 1848. Oldest town and first in which gold was discovered in Amador County. Its venerable town hall and other picturesque structures remain. Was not "dry" as name implies, containing 26 saloons at one time. — Map (db m10406) |
| California (Amador County), Drytown — Drytown |
| | Rich placer mining, 1850’s. Origin of town’s name: Lack of water in nearby creek to wash gold. Many Chinese laborers in fields & mines. East gateway to New Chicago, New Philadelphia, Amador City; Quartz mines: Fremont-Gover & Treasure (1867), Bunker Hill (1853); Scene of Rancheria Massacre (1855); Dynan Monument. — Map (db m10408) |
| California (Amador County), Ione — Buena Vista Store |
| | Buena Vista's store and house situated in Jackson Valley, was built by John Fitzsimmons, then sold to Sam Cook, then to James Norris and afterwards to Jacob and Verona Strohm. Once situated in Lancha Plana it was moved by the Chinese who discovered gold beneath its foundation. A bargain was made that it be moved six miles to Buena Vista. The Chinese and Sam Cook rebuilt it on this site. Its roof is supported by rafters made of Georgia Pine brought "round the horn." Built in 1850, it is one of Amador County's oldest landmarks. — Map (db m10189) |
| California (Amador County), Jackson — 786 — Argonaut and Kennedy Mines |
| | Argonaut Mine, discovered 1850, and Kennedy Mine, discovered 1856, played dramatic roles in the economic development of California, producing $105,268,760 in gold. Kennedy Mine has a vertical shaft of 5,912 feet, the deepest in the United States and changed mining methods in the Mother Lode. The Argonaut Mine was the scene of the Mother Lode's most tragic mine disaster. Forty eight miners were trapped in a fire at the 3,500-foot level on August 27, 1922 – A few survived. Both mines closed in 1942. — Map (db m13090) |
| California (Amador County), Jackson — Kennedy Mining and Milling Company — 1860 - 1942 |
| | In the late 1850’s, Andrew Kennedy discovered gold in an outcropping of quartz. The mine produced over $34.2 million in gold, making it one of the richest gold mines in the world. With a depth of 5,912 feet, it was the deepest mine in North America when it was closed by the War Production Board in 1942. The mine office building was constructed in 1908 and contained as assay room with bullion furnace, administrative offices and guest rooms on the third floor.
This plaque is in memory of the . . . — Map (db m19797) |
| California (Amador County), Kirkwood — Maiden's Grave |
| | Broken dreams and hope, carried 2000 miles through scorching deserts and over loft mountains. At last...the sight of the promise land. Those of you who visit this grave carry a torch of love and hope (which this young girl lost), and pass it on, to generations unborn.
Rechall Melton was laid to rest here, on a cold and frosty morning, Oct.4,1850. Blessed are the pure of heart for they shall see God. — Map (db m11983) |
| California (Amador County), Sutter Creek — In Memory of GENERAL JOHN A. SUTTER — Benefactor of the Great State of — California |
| | Who mined here and gave Sutter Creek its name and under whose regime gold was discovered.
Also to those pioneer mothers, fathers and miners of the Mother Lode, which has produced millions is gold.
This rock used in Mother Lode Champion hand drilling contests. — Map (db m13407) |
| California (Amador County), Sutter Creek — 1007 — Knight Foundry |
| | Knight Foundry was established in 1873 to supply heavy equipment and repair facilities to the gold mines and timber industry of the Mother Lode. Samuel N. Knight developed a high speed, cast iron water wheel which was a forerunner of the Pelton Wheel design. Knight Wheels were used in some of the first hydroelectric plants in California, Utah, and Oregon.
This site is the last water powered foundry and machine shop in California. A 42 inch Knight Wheel drives the main line shaft, with smaller water motors powering other machines. — Map (db m10415) |
| California (Amador County), Sutter Creek — Leland Stanford, Jr. — 1824 – 1893 |
| | A man of tremendous ambition, Leland Stanford, Sr., was one of California’s most distinguished businessmen, politicians, philanthropists, and proponents of education. Lured to California by the Gold Rush in 1852, he became an owner of Sutter Creek’s Union-Lincoln Mine. Stanford went on to become California’s governor, a U.S. Senator, member of the Central Pacific Railroad, “Big Four” and founder of Stanford University, a living memorial to his son, Leland Stanford, Jr. — Map (db m12610) |
| California (Amador County), Volcano — 29 — Volcano |
| | [Larger Marker]:
Started 1848 by soldiers of Colonel Stevenson’s Regiment. Named by miners because of apparent volcanic appearance. Here the first California rental library, 1850, was established. And one of the first “Little Theaters” founded by the “Volcano Thespian Society”, 1854
Interesting Civil War History.
[Smaller Marker]:
Volcano - Right Here!
1934 plaque placed in Pine Grove as "obituary" when planned dam would flood Volcano. . . . — Map (db m11336) |
| California (Amador County), Volcano — Volcano |
| | Discovered in 1848 by Colonel Stevenson’s men who mined Soldiers’ Gulch in ’49. First covered wagon party sluiced rich gravel beds. By ’53, men swarmed flats and gulches naming them picturesquely. Hydraulic operations, begun in ’55, brought thousands of fortune seekers to form town of 17 hotels, library, theaters and courts of justice. During Civil War, Volcano gold served the Union. “Volcano Blues” smuggled cannon “Old Abe” in, by hearse, to quell rebels. Mellow with . . . — Map (db m11365) |
| California (Butte County), Oroville — 770 — Chinese Temple |
| | Dedicated in the spring of 1863, this building served as a temple of worship for 10,000 Chinese then living here. Funds for its erection and furnishings were provided by the Emperor and Empress of China and local Chinese labor built the structure. The building was deeded to the City of Oroville in 1935 by the Chinese residents. — Map (db m17727) |
| California (Butte County), Oroville — 809 — The Last Yahi Indian |
| | For thousands of years the Yahi Indians roamed the foothills between Mt. Lassen and the Sacramento Valley. Settlement of this region by the White Man brought death to the Yahi by gun, by disease, and by hunger. By the turn of the century only a few remained. Ishi, the last known survivor of these people, was discovered at this site in 1911. His death in 1916 brought an end to stone age California. — Map (db m17743) |
| California (Calaveras County), Altaville — 499 — Altaville Grammar School |
| | This brick building, erected in 1858 with funds raised by a dance in the Billiard Saloon of the N.R. Prince Building (which still stands), is one of the oldest schools of California. Used as a school until 1950, it was then replaced by the present Mark Twain Elementary School in Altaville. — Map (db m10143) |
| California (Calaveras County), Altaville — 735 — Prince-Garibardi Building |
| | This structure was erected in 1852 by B. R. Prince and G. Garibardi for a general merchandise business. Improved in 1857 with living quarters on the second floor, it is still used for living and warehouse purposes. — Map (db m11047) |
| California (Calaveras County), Angels Camp — Angels Camp — Home of the Jumping Frog — Romance - Gold - History |
| | Founded in 1849 by George Angel, who established a mining camp and trading store 200 feet below this marker. A rich gravel mining area and one of the richest quartz mining sections of the Mother Lode. Production records of over $100 million for Angels Camp and vicinity. Prominent in early day California history. Townsite established in 1873. Locale of Mark Twain's famous story, The Jumping Frog of Calaveras. Frequented by Joaquin Murietta, Black Bart and other early day bandits. — Map (db m14460) |
| California (Calaveras County), Calaveritas — 255 — Calaveritas |
| | Calaveritas, settled in 1849 by Mexicans, was a flourishing mining town complete with stores, saloons, gambling houses, and fandango halls. Joaquin Murieta is reported to have frequently visited its Fandango Halls and gambling houses. Destroyed by fire in 1858. — Map (db m12992) |
| California (Calaveras County), Campo Seco — 257 — Campo Seco |
| | Settled in 1849 by Mexicans who worked placers in Oregon Gulch. Rich copper deposits discovered in 1859. The largest living cork oak tree in California was planted here in 1858. Ruins of Adams Express Building still standing. — Map (db m10629) |
| California (Calaveras County), Copperopolis — 296 — Copperopolis — State Registered Landmark No.296 |
| | Copper here discovered by W. K. Reed and Thomas McCarty in 1860. Mines utilized during the Civil War and the First and Second World Wars. During Civil War period was the principal copper producing section of the United States. — Map (db m13002) |
| California (Calaveras County), Copperopolis — Copperopolis — The Town of |
| | With the discovery of copper ore in 1860 by Thomas McCarty and William K. Reed, the town of Copperopolis sprang into existence and soon became the largest producer of copper in the western United States. The population of Copperopolis grew to exceed 10,000 by 1863. The Union Mine was the largest producing mine in the area, working three shafts and hundreds of men on the payroll.
During the nations three recent wars, the Civil War, World War I and World War II, much of the copper ore that was . . . — Map (db m13004) |
| California (Calaveras County), Copperopolis — 281 — O'Bryne Ferry |
| | In 1852 a chain cable bridge replaced the ferries that once crossed here, to be supplanted in its turn by a covered truss structure in 1862. Some writers claimed this was the locale of Bret Harte's Poker Flat. In late “49” there was a large camp here, with miners washing gold out on both banks of the Stanislaus River. — Map (db m13013) |
| California (Calaveras County), Jenny Lind — Jenny Lind |
| | Settled in the 1840’s as a flourishing gold mining, cattle ranching and farming community. — Map (db m13040) |
| California (Calaveras County), Mokelumne Hill — 663 — Calaveras County Courthouse and Leger Hotel |
| | A portion of this building served as the Calaveras County Courthouse from 1852 to 1866, when the county seat was removed to San Andreas. George W. Leger then acquired the court building and made it a part of his adjoining hotel, which has been operating since early gold mining days. It was known as the Grand Hotel in 1874 when fire damaged it and destroyed its dance hall. Restored in 1879, it has since been known as the Leger Hotel. — Map (db m11537) |
| California (Calaveras County), Mokelumne Hill — 265 — Chili Gulch |
| | Richest placer mining section, extending five miles, in Calaveras County. Received name from Chileans who worked gulch in 1848 and 1849, and scene of the so-called Chilean War. Largest known quartz crystals recovered from mine on south side of gulch. — Map (db m11515) |
| California (Calaveras County), Mokelumne Hill — 269 — Mokelumne Hill |
| | Mokelumne is an Indian word, first applied to the nearby river. Earliest settlement was at Happy Valley by French trappers. Gold was discovered by discharged members of Stevenson's Regiment in 1848. Center of the richest placer mining section of Calaveras County and one of the principal mining towns of California. Corral Flat produced over thirty millions in gold. Sixteen feet square constituted a claim. The so-called 'French War' for possession of gold mines occurred in 1851. 'Calaveras . . . — Map (db m12996) |
| California (Calaveras County), Murphys — 272 — Douglas Flat |
| | Douglas Flat was a roaring mining camp of the early 1850s. In 1857 the Harper and Lone Star Claims produced $130,000 worth of gold. The so-called Central Hill Channel, an ancient river deposit from which vast quantities of gold have been taken, is located here.
— Map (db m2563) |
| California (Calaveras County), Murphys — 275 — Murphys |
| | One of the principal mining communities in Calaveras County, named for the discoverer of gold on the flat in 1849. The objective of many immigrants coming over the Sierras by Ebbetts Pass, Murphys Flat and surrounding mines produced 20,000,000 dollars in gold. Early regulations restricted claims to 8 ft. square. Suspension flume conveying water across Murphys Creek and drainage race draining the flat, were two outstanding accomplishments of early day miners. Business portion of town destroyed . . . — Map (db m3887) |
| California (Calaveras County), Murphys — 466 — Peter L. Traver Building |
| | Constructed by Peter L. Traver in 1856, this is the oldest stone building in Murphys. Its iron shutters and sand on the roof protected it from the fires of 1859, 1874, and 1893. It served as a general store, a Wells Fargo office, and later a garage. — Map (db m2611) |
| California (Calaveras County), Murphys — 465 — Site of Brownsville |
| | A thriving mining camp on rich Pennsylvania Gulch in the 1850’s and 1860’s. Named for Alfred Brown, former owner of Table Mountain Ranch. Laws of Brownsville Mining District provided that each miner could own one wet and one dry claim, not to exceed 150 square feet. — Map (db m11501) |
| California (Calaveras County), San Andreas — 258 — Fourth Crossing |
| | Located on the Stockton-Murphy’s Road at the fourth crossing of the Calaveras River. This early mining settlement, once called Foremans, was famous in the 1850’s for its rich placer ores. Later it became an important stage and freighting depot and served the southern mines until after the turn of the century. — Map (db m11969) |
| California (Calaveras County), San Andreas — Pioneer Cemetery |
| | California Pioneers
Reinterred From
Poverty Bar Cemetery
[Left Column]
Mr. and Mrs. Calhoun
Elva Lucy Drennan
Mr. Hussky
[Right Column]
John Laplasse
Christian Kientz
Henry Christian Kientz
---Were known to have been buried at Poverty Bar Cemetery now covered by the waters of Comanche Reservoir. They and other persons who were found in unmarked graves, have been reinterred in this plot. — Map (db m13020) |
| California (Calaveras County), Valley Springs — 295 — Paloma (Fosteria) |
| | Gwin Mine, Paloma, and Lower Rich Gulch were mined for placer in 1849. Quartz was discovered by J. Alexander in 1851. Property acquired by Wm. M. Gwin, California's first U.S. Senator, in 1851. The Gwin Mine closed, in 1908, yielded millions. — Map (db m14449) |
| California (Calaveras County), Valley Springs — Valley Springs |
| | The original three foot narrow gauge line was built by the San Joaquin & Sierra Nevada Railroad, extending from Brack’s Landing on the Mokelumne River, east to Valley Springs. The depot and turntable were built around the time of completion of the last section, which was finished in April 1885, at a total cost of $409,570. The line was changed to standard gauge by Southern Pacific around 1904. It was then extended 13 miles further east to Kentucky House to service the Calaveras Cement Company . . . — Map (db m10635) |
| California (Calaveras County), West Point — 253 — Sandy Gulch |
| | This site, in 1849, was a trading center for pioneer miners of Northwestern Calaveras County. It was named after the gulch where William and Dan Carsner found large nuggets imbedded in the course sand.
Water for mining was brought from the Middle Fork of the Mokelumne River. Through the Sandy Gulch and Kadish Ditches. Quartz mining began in the early fifties. The first custom stamp mill was at the head of Sandy Gulch.
The school and elections precincts were established early. Hangman’s . . . — Map (db m11975) |
| California (Calaveras County), West Point — 268 — West Point |
| | Named by famous scout Kit Carson while searching for pass over Sierras. One emigrant road forked at Big Meadows, and north branch came directly to West Point. A thriving trading post prior to gold discovery. Bret Harte, famous author, lived here for a period — Map (db m11972) |
| California (Colusa County), Colusa — 890 — Colusa County Courthouse |
| | Erected in 1861, this Federal/Classic Revival style building is the oldest remaining courthouse in the Sacramento Valley. The “Southern” style reflects the county’s heritage from the Ante-Bellum South and states-rights sympathies during the Civil War. In its early years, the courthouse also served as the County’s center of cultural, social and religious activities. California Registered Historical Landmark No. 890 — Map (db m10386) |
| California (Contra Costa County), Crockett — 731 — The Old Homestead |
| | This was the first American home in Crockett. Constructed in 1867 by Thomas Edwards, Sr., on land purchased in 1866 from Judge J.B. Crockett. Located on an earlier Indian village near the Carquinez Straits, its timbers, some of which were brought around the Horn, have been well preserved. — Map (db m12153) |
| California (Contra Costa County), Diablo — 905 — Mount Diablo |
| | Mount Diablo, sacred to Native Americans who lived and worshipped there for over 5,000 years became a critical reference point for Spanish explorers in the 18th century, and American trappers and early California settlers in the 19th. In 1851 Colonel Leander Ransome established the crossing of the Mount Diablo Base and meridian lines from which most of California and Nevada are surveyed.
California Registered Historical Landmark No. 905
Plaque placed by the State Department of Parks . . . — Map (db m17541) |
| California (El Dorado County), Coloma — “Gold Boys Gold” |
| | On January 24, 1848, James Marshall set off early and alone to inspect progress in deepening the ditch that channeled water from the sawmill back to the river. Suddenly, he bent over and picked up a few particles gleaming in the icy water. “Hey, boys, by God, I believe I’ve found a gold mine,” he called, walking toward the mill hands.
The men ran to meet him. One seized a flake, bit it, and when the metal did not break, yelled, “Gold, boys, gold!” After they had . . . — Map (db m17241) |
| California (El Dorado County), Coloma — Cabin of James Marshall |
| | This cabin was erected by Marshall and occupied by him from 1856 : 1870. Born in New Jersey October 8, 1810. Came to California in 1845 – Died at Kelsey, this state, August 10, 1885. The discovery of gold by Marshall in the tailrace of John A. Sutter’s Mill at Coloma on January 24, 1848 started the historic migration to California by land and sea. The original sawmill, the building of which Marshall superintended was located 2190 feet north of this cabin on the American River. On an . . . — Map (db m12215) |
| California (El Dorado County), Coloma — Coloma — An Artists View |
| | ”The principle street of Coloma was alive with crowds of moving men, passing and repassing, laughing, talking, and all appearing in the best of humor. It was a scene that no other country could ever imitate.”
from “A California Journal” by Charles Gillespie
Look over your left shoulder and you will see the view this artist saw in 1853 — Map (db m12274) |
| California (El Dorado County), Coloma — James W. Marshall — 1810 - 1885 |
| | Erected by the State of California
in memory of
James W. Marshall
1810 - 1885
Whose discovery of gold
January 24, 1848
in the tailrace of Sutter’s Mill at Coloma
started the great rush of Argonauts. — Map (db m10490) |
| California (El Dorado County), Coloma — James W. Marshall — Discoverer of Gold |
| | “Boys I believe I have found a gold mine” so said James W. Marshall to his millworkers on January 24, 1848, after he discovered gold in the tail race of Captain John A. Sutter’s sawmill at Coloma. This discovery started the great Gold Rush to California which resulted in its admission to the Union as the thirty first state on September 9, 1850. This plaque dedicated in his honor by E Clampus Vitus, January 27, 1957 — Map (db m12224) |
| California (El Dorado County), Coloma — Partners In History |
| | Friday, Aug. 27, 1847…made a contract and entered in partnership with Marshall for a sawmill to be built on the Amer. Fork.
So wrote John Augustus Sutter, methodically recording the agreement that led to California’s astonishing gold rush. Sutter left Germany for the United States in 1834, after several years in the Midwest, reached the Sacramento Valley in 1839. A year later he received a 48,000-acre land grant from the Mexican government and began creating a small empire near the . . . — Map (db m17226) |
| California (El Dorado County), Coloma — Sutter Mill Replica |
| | This replica of Sutter’s Mill was based on research from many sources – a drawing by James Marshall, an old photograph of the mill, and the results of several excavations made on the original mill site. The building is 60 feet long, 20 feet wide, and 39 feet high, and 80,000 board feet of lumber were used in construction. The structure is assembled with wooden pegs – no nails were used. As in the original mill, all timbers were adzed by hand. The replica was placed here because the . . . — Map (db m12206) |
| California (El Dorado County), Coloma — 748 — The Coloma Road |
| | Here in the Valley of the Cul-lum-mah Indians, James W. Marshall discovered gold on January 24, 1848, in the tailrace of Sutter’s sawmill. The Old Coloma Road, opened in 1847 from Sutter’s Fort to Coloma, was used by Marshall to carry the news of the discovery to Captain John A. Sutter. During the Goldrush it was used by thousands of miners going to and from the diggings. In 1849 it became the route of California’s first stage-line, established by James E. Birch. — Map (db m12272) |
| California (El Dorado County), Coloma — The Tailrace |
| | Here on a chilly morning in January, 1848, carpenter James Marshall picked up the small pieces gold that touched off one of the largest, most frenzied mass migrations in history. Within a year of Marshall’s discovery, six thousand gold seekers swarmed over the western slope of the Sierra Nevada. Thousands more who followed completely changed the what had been a quiet, remote Mexican province. — Map (db m17608) |
| California (El Dorado County), El Dorado — 486 — El Dorado |
| | El Dorado, meaning “The Gilded One”, was first known as Mud Springs from the boggy quagmire the cattle and horses made of a nearby watering place.
Originally a important camp along the old Carson Emigrant Trail. By 1849 – 50 it had become the center of a mining district and the crossroads for freight and stage lines. At the height of the Rush its large gold production supported a population of several thousand. — Map (db m13148) |
| California (El Dorado County), El Dorado — 700 — El Dorado (Mud Springs) |
| | Trading post, emigrant stop, and mining camp of the 1850’s. This became one of the remount stations of the Central Overland Pony Express. Here at the Nevada House on April 13, 1860, pony rider William (Sam) Hamilton changed horses while carrying the first west-bound mail of the Pony Express from St. Joseph, Missouri, to Sacramento, California. — Map (db m11571) |
| California (El Dorado County), El Dorado Hills — 699 — Mormon Tavern — Overland Pony Express Route - California |
| | At this site on the old Clarksville-White Rock Emigrant Road was Mormon Tavern. Constructed in 1849, this popular stage stop was enlarged and operated by Franklin Winchell in 1851. It became a remount station of the Central Overland Pony Express and on April 4, 1860, pony rider Sam (Bill) Hamilton changed horses here on the first eastbound trip. — Map (db m12056) |
| California (El Dorado County), Georgetown — 484 — Georgetown |
| | Founded August 7, 1849 by George Phipps and party. Nicknamed Growlersburg from the heavy nuggets that “growled” in the miners’ pans. Georgetown was the hub of an immensely rich gold area. After the disastrous fire of 1852 the old town was moved from the canyon in lower Main Street to its present site. Unique in early day planning, Main Street was laid out 100 feet wide and side streets 60 feet. Population was 3,000 in 1854 – 56. — Map (db m11370) |
| California (El Dorado County), Georgetown — 521 — Greenwood |
| | John Greenwood, a trapper and guide who came to California in 1844, established a here a trading post in 1849. The mining town of Greenwood, which developed during the Gold Rush, boasted a theater, 4 hotels, 14 stores, a brewery, and 4 saloons. Among its illustrious citizens was John A. Stone, California songwriter, who was buried here in 1863. — Map (db m10447) |
| California (El Dorado County), Pilot Hill — 551 — California’s First Grange Hall |
| | Pilot Hill Grange No.1, of 29 charter members: Master, F. D. Brown; Secretary, A. J. Bayley; was organized August 10, 1870. The Grange Hall, dedicated at this site November 23, 1880, was built by Alcander A. Bayley — Map (db m11607) |
| California (El Dorado County), Placerville — Emigrant Jane |
| | Drove a band of horses across the plains and from the proceeds of their sale she erected this building in 1861. — Map (db m13272) |
| California (El Dorado County), Placerville — 141 — Hangmans Tree |
| | This city in the days of ’49 was called “Hangtown”
This was the site of Elstner’s Hay Yard on which stood the ‘Hangman’s Tree’ where vigilantes executed many men for various crimes. The stump of the tree is under this building. — Map (db m10504) |
| California (El Dorado County), Placerville — Methodist Episcopal Church |
| | Erected in 1851, Oldest church building in El Dorado County. It originally stood on the corner of Cedar Ravine and Main Street. The Ponderosa Pine beams are hand hewn. First church bell was purchased from the sailing ship “Staffordshire.” Restored by public contribution. — Map (db m11055) |
| California (El Dorado County), Placerville — 475 — Placerville — Originally Known as “Hangtown” — Incorporated May 13, 1854 |
| | Established on banks of “Hangtown” Creek as rich mining camp in spring of 1848. Millions in gold were taken from its ravines and hills. Supply center for surrounding mining camps and transportation terminus for famous Comstock Lode. John M. Studebaker, Mark Hopkins, Leland Stanford, Phillip Armour, and Edwin Markham were among well-known men who contributed to Placerville’s early history. Also, “Snowshoe” John A. Thompson who carried from 60 to 80 pounds of mail on skies . . . — Map (db m12732) |
| California (El Dorado County), Placerville — 701 — Placerville Pony Express — Station and Terminus |
| | Gold Rush town and Western Terminus of the Placerville –Carson Road to the Comstock. Placerville was a relay station of the Central Overland Pony Express, April 4, 1860 – June 30, 1861. Here on April 4, 1860 the first east-bound pony rider, William (Sam) Hamilton changed horses, added one express letter to his machila, and sped away for Sportsman’s Hall. On July 1, 1861, Placerville became the Western Terminus of the Pony Express, until its discontinuous on October 26, 1861. — Map (db m12743) |
| California (El Dorado County), Rescue — 747 — The Coloma Road |
| | Past this point on the Old Coloma Road, running between Sutter’s Fort and his sawmill on the American River, James W. Marshall rode with the first gold discovered at Coloma on Jan. 24, 1848. Traveled by thousands to and from the diggings, this road became the route of California’s earliest stage line, established in 1849 by James E. Birch. — Map (db m11268) |
| California (El Dorado County), Shingle Springs — 456 — Camp Site of Boston-Newton Party |
| | On this site the Boston-Newton Joint Stock Association encamped on September 26, 1849. The company left Boston April 16 and arrived at Sutter’s Fort September 27. After a remarkable journey across the continent a rich store of written records preserved by these pioneers has left for posterity a fascinating picture of the Gold Rush. — Map (db m11568) |
| California (El Dorado County), Skinners — 703 — Pleasant Grove House |
| | This was the site of a popular roadhouse, where the ponies of the Central Overland Pony Express were changed during July 1, 1860 to June 30, 1861. From here the route of the pony riders continued westward to Folsom and eastward through Rescue, Dry Creek Crossing, and Missouri Flat to Placerville. — Map (db m10442) |
| California (Fresno County), Coalinga — 344 — Arroyo de Cantua — 14 Miles |
| | Headquarters of notorious bandit, Joaquin Murieta. Killed here July 25, 1853, by posse of State Rangers, led by Captain Harry Love. Terrorized mining camps and stage operations during his career.
Historical Landmark No.344
Department of Public Works – Division of Highways — Map (db m20128) |
| California (Humboldt County), Shelter Cove — Cape Mendocino Lighthouse |
| | Lit Dec. 1, 1868, the light from its first order Fresnel lens swept 30 miles to sea. Decommissioned in 1951, the structure slowly began to inch toward the 422’ cliff. The light was dismantled in 1998 and moved to Point Delgada, Shelter Cove by the Cape Mendocino Lighthouse Preservation Society. The lantern roof portion was airlifted by the Army National Guard. Funded during the Lincoln administration, the lighthouse is now a monument to those hardy and long-suffering keepers of the light and to . . . — Map (db m1093) |
| California (Kern County), Arvin — Francisco Garces O.F.M |
| | Padre Garcés, first recorded non-Indian to visit this locality, came in April of 1776, seeking a new route from Mexico to California. His epic journey covered more than two thousand miles of uncharted wilderness, opening trails that later became highways and railroads. — Map (db m11932) |
| California (Kern County), Grapevine — 300 — Rose Station |
| | Wm. B. Rose, in 1875, a mile east; built an adobe stage station on the site of the Overland Mail Way Station established 1858. From 1853 to 1875 site was known as Rancho Canoa (trough). Originally vaquero camp of the Sebastian Indian Reservation. Rose Station was a stockmen's headquarters, post office, and polling place.
Dedicated
November 16, 1941
Bakersfield Parlor No.42, N.S.G.W.
El Tejon Parlor No.239, N.D.G.W.
Kern County Historical Society
Kern County Chamber of Commerce . . . — Map (db m20196) |
| California (Kern County), Grapevine — 133 — Sebastian Indian Reservation |
| | The Sebastian or Tejon Indian Reservation (headquarters 10 miles east of here) was established in 1853 by Gen. Edward Fitzgerald Beale as one of several California Reservations. The number of Indians quartered here varied from 500 to 2000. General Beale acquired title to this area under Mexican Land Grant of 1843. In 1864 the U.S. Government transferred the Indians to other reservations.
Dedicated
Nov. 12, 1937
Bakersfield Parlor Number 42, N.S.G.W.
El Tajon Parlor Number 239, . . . — Map (db m20161) |
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