| Germany, Bavaria, Munich — The Expansion of the Church of Our Lady Lane |
| | Durch hochherzige Spenden seiner königlichen hoheit des Prinzregenten Luitpold von Bayern, des Domkapitels zu Unserer Lieben Frau und opferwilliger Münchener Bürger wurde es ermöglicht, im Jahre 1888 das enge Liebefrauengässchen zu dieser Strasse zu erweitern und sogleich die hiesige Domfreiheit zu schaffen.
Translated, the marker reads:
Through the generous donations of His Royal Highness, Luitpold, the Prince Regent of Bavaria, the Ecclesiastical Chapter of the Church of Our . . . — Map (db m22603) |
| Alabama (Dallas County), Cahaba — Vine Street |
| | Vine Street was Cahawba Business district. Stores, offices and hotels were tightly packed together along these three blocks. Homes were scattered over an entire square mile. Nearly every house had a yard of one or two acres. — Map (db m23289) |
| Arizona (La Paz County), Quartzsite — 060-019 — Tyson's Well — Old Stage Station |
| | This was a stage stop between Ehrenberg and Wickenburg and points east. Travelers in the 1870's and 80's made their first stop here on eastward journeys from the Colorado River. "No grass, but good water," an early desert guide indicated accommodations for passengers were crude. — Map (db m7004) |
| 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), Littlefield — The Old Spanish Trail — 1829 - 1848 |
| | The Old Spanish Trail, the main trade route between Santa Fe and Los Angeles, passed this way beginning in 1829. At the end of the Mexican-American War this portion of the route evolved into what was variously known as the Salt Lake Road, the Mormon Trail, the California Road, and eventually U.S. Hwy. 91. The original pack trail descended Utah Hill, passed through Beaver Dam, then followed the Virgin River toward Las Vegas. As wagon traffic increased in the 1850s the route veered westward near . . . — Map (db m22729) |
| Arkansas (Clay County), St. Francis — Chalk Bluff Crossing and Town |
| | Since Crowley's Ridge provided the only natural route for north-south travel across the lowlands of northeastern Arkansas, an Indian trail and later a military road crossed the river here. About 1840 Abraham Seitz established a ferry which was later operated by Timothy Dalton. The town which grew up near the crossing faded away after 1882 when the railroad bridged the river downstream at the new town of St. Francis. — Map (db m4912) |
| California (Alameda County), Livermore — Duarte Garage — Built 1915 |
| |
Service Station and Car Dealership
Situated on the Original Route
of the Lincoln Highway
————————
City of Livermore
Historic Preservation Site
Dedicated July 1996
Operated by
The Livermore Heritage Guild — Map (db m19994) |
| California (Alpine County), Bear Valley — Old Emigrant Road |
| | This Sierra Crossing used by Jedediah Smith 1821 - Major John Ebbetts 1850 - Snowshoe Thompson 1856-76 - Gold Seekers 1850's. Old road left Carson Pass Road in Hope Valley, crossed Border Ruffian Pass to Hermit Valley, Pacific Summit and through Bear Valley to Big Trees. Big Trees Carson Valley Turnpike Co. built toll road over Ebbetts Pass to Silver Mountain in 1860's. Harvey Blood collected tolls at this point from 1864-1910. — Map (db m10730) |
| California (Alpine County), Kirkwood — First Summit |
| | Below this ridge is what some pioneers dubbed the “Devils Ladder.” A name reflecting the steepness and extreme difficulty that pioneers experienced as they began their ascent over the Sierra Nevada. This climb was usually referred to as the “first summit” or “three quarter mountain.” It was called “three quarter mountain” because it was only three quarters of a mile from Red Lake to the summit.
A staging area was set up at the base of the . . . — Map (db m21284) |
| 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), Kirkwood — Naming of Carson Pass |
| | In February of 1844, John C. Fremont led a group of men over these mountains as they struggled to reach Sutter’s Fort. Little did they know that the pass, which lay 20 to 30 feet under the snow beneath them, would be a major route for the Gold Rush in just a few years. Kit Carson, for whom the pass eventually be named, was among the group. Payroll records show that he was hired as a hunter and Indian Fighter and that Thomas Fitzpatrick was the official guide for the expedition.
On this . . . — Map (db m21278) |
| California (Alpine County), Kirkwood — 661 — Old Emigrant Road |
| | Here the Old Emigrant Road of 1848 swung down across the meadow now covered by Caples Lake (Twin Lakes) and climbed along the ridge at the right to the gap at the head of the valley. From this summit (9,460 feet) it descended to Placerville. This rough and circuitous section became obsolete in 1863 when a better route was blasted out of the face of the cliff at Carson Spur.
California Registered Historical Landmark No. 661
Plaque placed by the California State Park Commission in . . . — Map (db m21274) |
| 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 (Alpine County), Woodfords — The Pony Express - Woodfords |
| | During the initial five weeks of its operation in 1860, an important remount station of the famous Pony Express was located a few feet from here at Cary’s Barn.
This monument erected by the Historical Society of Alpine County.
National Pony Express Centennial Association;
Dwight D. Eisenhower—Chairman,
Waddell R. Smith—President,
Sherrill Halbert—Director at Large. — Map (db m612) |
| California (Alpine County), Woodfords — Woodfords Station |
| | Historic Woodfords Station, the Eastern Sierra gateway to the goldfields of California, way station of the famed Pony Express, and entrance to Carson Pass on the Emigrant Trail to the Sacramento Valley. Beginning in 1849 with the building of the “Sign of the Elephant” hotel by Daniel Woodsfords, it was the first settlement in what is today Alpine County. In 1854 Willis P. Merrill opened a trading post in the area and later a hotel and store.
Dedicated in truth, liberty and . . . — Map (db m611) |
| California (Amador County), Kit Carson — Mormon-Carson Pass Emigrant Trail |
| | Mormon-Carson Pass Emigrant Trail, the heavily-travelled gateway to California gold fields, was blazed in 1848 by discharged members of the Mormon battalion traveling east to join their families.
Five hundred Mormon volunteers, recruited in Iowa, served one year in the Army of the West under command of Col. P. St. George Cooke during the war with Mexico. After their discharge in Los Angeles in July 1847, about 100 men worked in the Sacramento area for John Sutter over the winter to obtain . . . — Map (db m10824) |
| California (Amador County), Kit Carson — 338 — Tragedy Spring — No 338 — Erected 1967 |
| | This campsite on the Kit Carson Emigrant Trail was a resting place for California settlers. It was named by members of the Mormon Battalion enroute to Salt Lake Valley. Three of their men, serving as advance trail scouts, were murdered here by unknown persons June 27, 1848. Battalion friends, arriving a few days later, buried them in a common grave and carved their names (Henderson Cox, Ezra Allen, Daniel Browett) on a nearby tree, thus preserving the grave’s location. — Map (db m21273) |
| California (Amador County), Plymouth — Forest Home — 1850's — Stage and Freight Stopover |
| | Copper mines patented 1873:
Peak Outputs: Early 1860’s, 1895-1917, 1943-1947,
Township organized 1854.
A Methodist center for many years
U.S. Postoffice: 1862-1905 — Map (db m11361) |
| California (Calaveras County), Angels Camp — Archie D. Stevenot — “Mr. Mother Lode” |
| | September 25, 1882 – August 1, 1968
Founder of Mother Lode Association in 1919, which created colorful Highway 49 – California’s first highway association.
Plaque and 100 year capsules placed on July 23, 1976 by Golden Chain Council of the Mother Lode and Grand Council of E Clampus Vitus — Map (db m6876) |
| California (Calaveras County), Avery — Avery Hotel — Formerly Half-Way House |
| | Hotel and stagecoach relay station, halfway between Murphys and Big Trees. Settled in the 1850’s by Joseph and Sarah Goodell. Purchased by Peter Avery, then operated by three generations of Averys - Peter and Nancy, George and Henrietta and Morton and Louise. Overnight stops for logging, freight teams and stockmen with herds to and from summer ranges. Later a resort for guests, hunting and fishing parties. — Map (db m10615) |
| 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), 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 (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), 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 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), El Dorado Hills — Sterlingshire — Historical Site |
| | The Central Overland Pony Express passed this site many times. Green Valley Road was the gateway to the gold region, and was the center of activities in the 1850’s & 60’s, where many early California Inns were located. In the late 1800’s a stagecoach, driven by 13 year old Fred Dixon, a member of the Dixon family who were former owners of the property, also passed this way. — Map (db m11311) |
| California (El Dorado County), Kyburz — 705 — Moore’s (Riverton) |
| | This was the site of a change station of the Pioneer Stage Company in the 1850’s and 1860’s. During 1860-1861, the Central Overland Pony Express maintained here the first pony remount station east of Sportsman’s Hall. — Map (db m14166) |
| California (El Dorado County), Kyburz — Riverton Bridge |
| | These stone obelisks are all that’s left of the original four that once stood on the corners of the stone arch bridge spanning the American River from 1900 to 1930.
This monument erected by Caltrans District 3 History Committee and the California Transportation Commission, 1990. — Map (db m23183) |
| California (El Dorado County), Kyburz — 706 — Webster’s — (Sugar Loaf House) |
| | This was the site of Webster's Sugar Loaf House, well-known stopping place during the Comstock rush. Beginning in April 1860, it was used as a remount station of the Central Overland Pony Express. In 1861 it became a horse change station for pioneer stage companies and the Overland Mail. — Map (db m14177) |
| California (El Dorado County), Placerville — Placerville |
| | . . . — Map (db m16024) |
| 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), Pollack Pines — The Pony Express - Sportsman’s Hall |
| | California’s only Home Station where riders changed on the Pony Express trail. Here, at 8:01 A.M. on April 4, 1860, Sam Hamilton, first eastbound rider, was relieved by Warren Upson who carried the initial mail over the then storm swept Sierras.
Sacramento — Friday’s — Salt Lake City — Ft. Laramie — Julesburg — Ft. Kearny — Marysville — St. Joseph. — Map (db m613) |
| California (El Dorado County), Pollock Pines — 704 — Sportsman’s Hall |
| | This was the site of Sportsman’s Hall, also known as Twelve-Mile House. The hotel operated in the late 1850’s and 1860’s by John and James Blair, a stopping place for stages and teams of the comstock. It became a relay station of the Central Overland Pony Express. Here, at 7:40 A.M., April 4, 1860, Pony Rider William (Sam) Hamilton, riding in from Placerville, handed the express mail to Warren Upson, who, two minutes later, sped on his way eastward.
California Registered Historical . . . — Map (db m609) |
| California (El Dorado County), Rescue — Old Coloma Road |
| | With the discovery of gold on January 24, 1848, Coloma Road became one of the primary routes to the gold fields of El Dorado County. The road started at Sutter’s Fort (New Helvitia), then proceeded to Willow Springs (near Folsom), Mormon Island, Green Valley (near Rescue), Rose Springs, turned north at Tennessee Creek, crossed Dry Creek and then Weber Creek, and continued on to Coloma. Soon thereafter, a connection to Uniontown (Lotus) was built and the present-day general road alignment for Green Valley Road and Lotus Roads completed. — Map (db m11282) |
| 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), Strawberry — 707 — Strawberry Valley House |
| | This popular resort and stopping place for stages and teams of the Comstock, established by Swift and Watson in 1856, became a remount station of the Central Overland Pony Express on April 4, 1860. Here on that date division superintendent Bolivar Roberts waited with a string of mules to help pony rider Warren Upson through the snowstorm on Echo Summit.
California Registered Historical Landmark No. 707 — Map (db m436) |
| California (Humboldt County), Eureka — Harold G Larsen / Vista Point |
| | 1925 — 1972
Hal, a native of San Diego, was graduated from San Diego State College with a degree in Civil Engineering, and subsequently started work with the California Division of Highways in that area.
As a person dedicated to serving the needs of others, Hal served as a Planning Commissioner with the Walnut Creek Planning Commission, was instrumental in formation of the Humboldt County United Crusade, was an active member of the Calvary Lutheran Church, the Eureka Rotary . . . — Map (db m1556) |
| California (Humboldt County), Patrick's Point — William Z. Hegy — 1915 - 1986 |
| | A native of Plunkett, Saskatchewan, Canada. Graduated from Stanford University with a degree in Civil Engineering, began work with the Division of Highways in 1936. He worked in many positions and locations throughout his career, becoming State Maintenance Engineer prior to serving as Caltrans District Director in Eureka.
He was active in the community as President of the Eureka Rotary Club and the United Way; commissioner of the Boy Scouts of America; Board Chairman of Humboldt Area . . . — Map (db m1509) |
| California (Humboldt County), Redcrest — Sam Helwer |
| | 1913 — 1991
Sam Helwer, the son of German-Russian immigrants, began his life on a small dairy farm in Russell, Kansas. In 1936 he began his career with the California Division of Highways as an Engineering Aid. By the 1940's he was Project Engineer for the world's first four-level freeway interchange in Los Angeles; and became nationally recognized as State expert on freeway interchange design. Although eventually promoted to Deputy State Highway Engineer, Sam Helwer is best . . . — Map (db m1558) |
| California (Kern County), Lebec — Camel Trail Terminus — Fort Tejon — California Historical Landmark |
| | Jefferson Davis, “Father of National Highways,” as Secretary of War 1853-57 sponsored the importation of 33 camels for transporting military supplies to the west coast. The camel trail survey ran from San Antonio, Texas to Fort Tejon which marks the western terminus, part of the Jefferson Davis Highway.
The army camel corps arrived at this fort in November, 1857, with Lt. Edward F. Beale in command.
Erected by
California Division,
United Daughters of the Confederacy
May 11, 1956 — Map (db m8053) |
| California (Kern County), Mojave — 652 — Mojave 20-Mule Team Borax Terminus |
| | Just west of this point was the Southern Pacific terminus for the 20-mule-team borax wagons that operated between Death Valley and Mojave from 1884 to 1889. The route ran from the Harmony Borax Mining Company works, later acquired by the Pacific Coast Borax Company, to the railroad loading dock in Mojave over 165 miles of mountain and desert trail. A round trip required 20 days. The ore wagons, which hauled a payload of 24 tons, were designed by J. W. S. Perry, Borax Company superintendent in . . . — Map (db m11928) |
| California (Lake County), Middletown — 467 — Old Bull Trail Road and St. Helena Toll Road |
| | The Old Bull Trail Road ran from Napa Valley to Middletown. It was built by volunteers in the 1850’s. A number of grades were 35 percent. It was an official road in 1861 and abandoned in 1868. St. Helena Toll Road also ran from same points. Was completed in 1868. The grades ran to 12 percent. State of California purchased from John Lawley heirs in 1925. — Map (db m11989) |
| California (Lassen County), Litchfield — 677 — Noble Emigrant Trail |
| | This route was first used in 1852 by emigrants to Northern California seeking to avoid the hardships of the Lassen Trail. It crossed the desert from the Humbolt River in Nevada, passed this point, and proceeded over the mountains to the town of Shasta. Later, 1859-1861, it was known as the Ft. Kearney, South Pass and Honey Lake Wagon Road. From this point Peter Lassen and J.C. Bruff on October 4, 1850, saw Honey Lake while on an expedition hunting for Gold Lake. — Map (db m10269) |
| California (Lassen County), Susanville — Birth of Peter Lassen |
| | “Peter Lassen was born on October 31, 1800 in Farum, Denmark. At the time Farum was a small village about 15 miles northwest of Copenhagen. Peter was a son of humble parents. His mother was Johanne Sophie Westergaard and his father was Lars Nielson. In the church records Lars Nielson was called farm laborer, day laborer or smallholder.
“As it will be seen, Peter’s family name was not Lassen. His father was called Lars Nielson – and it was in honor of him that Peter was . . . — Map (db m14179) |
| California (Lassen County), Susanville — Migration of Peter Lassen |
| | “We do not know the exact date on which Peter Lassen arrived in America. Let us suppose that he landed in the early spring of 1831. Most reports say that Lassen arrived in Boston, Massachusetts. Also his passport had Boston written as the destination. Besides, this town was at that time one of the most important immigrant gateways.
“In Boston, Lassen got his first impression of his newly adopted country, America. He must of felt confused by hearing all the different tongues: . . . — Map (db m14190) |
| California (Lassen County), Susanville — 675 — Noble Emigrant Trail |
| | This meadow, now a city park, was a welcome stopping place on the Noble Emigrant Trail, pioneered by William H. Nobles in 1851 and first used in 1852. Here, emigrants en route to the Northern California mines were able to rest, refresh their stocks, and obtain provisions at Isaac Roop's establishment, from which grew the city of Susanville. — Map (db m10268) |
| California (Lassen County), Westwood — 678 — Lassen Emigrant Trail |
| | Through this draw passed many covered wagons and gold seekers enroute to California over the Lassen Trail during 1848-1851. Approaching this location from the north, the trail passed what is now Bogard Ranger Station. Proceeding southward to Big Springs and Big Meadows (now Lake Almanor), it then turned westward to Deer Creek, which it followed generally to Vina in the Sacramento Valley.
California Registered Historical Landmark No. 678
Plaque placed by the California State Park . . . — Map (db m22027) |
| California (Los Angeles County), Newhall — 1009 — Beale's Cut Stagecoach Pass |
| |
[This site was designated as California Registered Historic Landmark No. 1006 on May 11, 1992.
There are three rock and concrete bases which at one time displayed three different plaques. The plaques are now missing.]
California Office of Historic Preservation Statement of Significance:
Beale's Cut is the only physical and cultural feature of its kind in the entire Los Angeles Basin. At the time of its construction in 1862, the actual creation and maintenance of the Cut was . . . — Map (db m20086) |
| California (Los Angeles County), Newhall — Last Horse Drawn Hearse of Los Angeles County |
| | This vehicle was manufactured at about the same time the first internments were made in this cemetery – 1860. — Map (db m20097) |
| California (Los Angeles County), Newhall — 688 — Lyons Station |
| | This site was the location of a combination store, post office, telegraph office, tavern, and stage depot accommodating travelers during the Kern River gold rush in the early 1850s. A regular stop for Butterfield and other early California stage lines, it was purchased by Sanford and Cyrus Lyons in 1855, and by 1868 at least twenty families lived here. Eternal Valley Memorial Park has called their final resting place "The Garden of the Pioneers."
California Registered Historical Landmark . . . — Map (db m20098) |
| California (Mono County), Benton — Aurora and Owens River Wagon Road |
| |
Established by the Nevada
Territorial Legislature
February 20, 1864
Rates of Toll
Wagon with two animals $1.00
Carriage and one animal $.75
Each additional animal $.25
Empty teams returning half price
Saddle animals each $.25
Pack do do $.15
Loose do do $.10 — Map (db m20732) |
| California (Mono County), Mammoth Lakes — Casa Diablo |
| | A distinctive landmark and gathering place used by many early inhabitants of the area for bathing, food preparation, ceremonial and medicinal purposes. It was named “House of the Devil”, by early explorers, for it’s boiling hot springs, plumes of rising steam and spectacular geysers.
From 1878 to 1881 it was a stage stop along the Bishop Creek—Bodie state route, a vital relay station for supplies, mail and equipment en route to the mining camps of Mammoth City, Mill . . . — Map (db m2950) |
| California (Monterey County), Carmel — Lone Cypress — Perched over the Pacific for Hundreds of Years |
| | Even though Monterey cypress trees prefer this area's rugged bare granite headlands, the Lone Cypress is a testament to the hardiness of these trees. It has withstood Pacific storms and winds for roughly 250 years. Fences and cables now offer added protection in the hopes it will live to be 300.
Due to Samuel F.B. Morse, the preservation-minded founder of Pebble Beach, the Del Monte Forest now consists of nature trails and reserves, spectacular 17 Mile Drive, resorts and golf courses, and . . . — Map (db m8476) |
| California (Nevada County), Grass Valley — 799 — Overland Emigrant Trail |
| | At this point the Old Overland Trail approaches the present highway. More than a hundred years ago the trail resounded to creaking wheels of pioneer wagons and the cries of hardy but footsore travelers buoyed by the realization their long trip to the gold fields was about over. — Map (db m10546) |
| California (Nevada County), Nevada City — 001 — Julius Albert Apperson — Born June 1855 - Died May 6, 1858 |
| | A pioneer who crossed the plains to California who died and was buried here. The Emigrant Trail followed along this ridge and through Nevada City. The marking of this lone grave perpetuates the memory of the lone graves throughout the State of California.
Nevada County Historical Landmark 001
Placed by the Grand Parlor
Native Sons of the Golden West
David S. Mason III, Grand President
October 10, 1971
In memory of Sen. James D. Phelan — Map (db m971) |
| California (Nevada County), Truckee — Donner Pass — Who Passed This Way |
| | For thousands of years, people have crossed the Sierra Nevada near this place called Donner Pass.
Traveling by foot, wagon, train or automobile, the journey has always been challenging.
By Foot
Long before it’s “discovery” by Euro-Americans, this 7,000 foot pass was used as a travel corridor by Native Americans.
The Washoe Indians trekked through the area, from their Great Basin home enroute to the foothills of California, to gather acorns and to trade. They . . . — Map (db m23571) |
| California (Nevada County), Truckee — Nev.-01-95 — Schallenberger Cabin Site |
| | Near this spot stood a small cabin built by 18 year old Moses Schallenberger and two other men. They were members of the Stephens-Townsend-Murphy party of 1844, the first pioneers to take wagons over the Sierra Nevada, opening the Truckee Route of the California Trail. The three men had volunteered to remain behind and guard six of the wagons left here by the main party.
Due to extreme winter weather conditions and lack of food, the three men agreed to separate. The two older men rejoined . . . — Map (db m11601) |
| California (Nevada County), Truckee — World War I Memorial / Victory Highway Monument |
| |
[Located on Front of Monument:]
Dedicated to
California’s Sons and Daughters
Who Served Their Country
In the World War 1917 -1918
And to the Memory of
Those Who Gave the
“Last Full Measure of Devotion”
[Located on Back of Monument:]
Victory Highway Monument Rededication
July 24, 1998
This monument was originally sited on old Highway 40 near the California/Nevada State line in 1928 and removed in the mid 1970’s due to vandalism. It was one . . . — Map (db m23519) |
| California (Placer County), Foresthill — Old Joe |
| | On the day of July 3, 1901 a stagecoach, driven by Henry Crockett, was on its way to the town of Foresthill when a hooded man appeared with a shotgun and ordered Crockett to stop, to which he replied, "You are only foolin". At that the robber shot and killed the wheel horse known as "Old Joe". He then robbed the stage and its passengers. Although the robber was later identified as Henry Wise, he was never captured. This plaque and monument replaces the wooden sign that was put at this site by . . . — Map (db m667) |
| California (Placer County), Granite Bay — 585 — Pioneer Express Trail |
| | Between 1849 and 1854, Pioneer Express riders rode this gold rush trail to the many populous mining camps on the American River bars now covered by Folsom Lake. - Beals, Condemned, Dotons, Long, Horseshoe, Rattlesnake, and Oregon - on the route to Auburn and beyond. — Map (db m10202) |
| California (Placer County), Michigan Bluff — Michigan Bluff to Last Chance |
| | A historic section of the Western States Trail through the Sierra Nevada.
Michigan Bluff–Last Chance Trail.
The Michigan Bluff to Last Change section of the Western States Trail was built in 1850 and later became a maintained toll-trail, perhaps one of only a few toll-trails in the state.
As early as 1850 pack-trains carried supplies down the trail connecting the mining camps of Michigan Bluff, Deadwood, and Last Change. During this period these camps were . . . — Map (db m692) |
| California (Placer County), Newcastle — 400 — Virginiatown |
| | Founded June 1851 - Commonly called 'Virginia.' Over 2,000 miners worked rich deposits. Captain John Brislow built California's first railroad, 1852, to carry pay to Auburn Ravine, a distance of one mile. Site of Philip Armour's and George Aldrich's butcher shop, said to have led to founding of the famous Chicago Armour Meat Packing Company. — Map (db m10973) |
| California (Placer County), Nyack — 403 — Emigrant Gap |
| | The spring of 1845 saw the first covered wagons to surmount the Sierra Nevada Mountains. They left this valley, ascended to the ridge and turned westward to Old Emigrant Gap. The wagons were lowered by ropes to the floor of Bear Valley. Hundreds followed, before, during and after the Gold Rush. This was a hazardous portion of the Overland Emigrant Trail.
State Registered Landmark No. 403
Tablet placed by California Centennials Commission.
Base furnished by Placer County Historical Society
Dedicated June 25, 1950. — Map (db m548) |
| California (Sacramento County), Elk Grove — The Lincoln Highway |
| | The Lincoln Highway, a coast to coast all weather road from Times Square in New York to San Francisco’s Lincoln Park, was an idea whose birthday was the 10th of September 1912. This road which freed America from the clutches of changeable weather was completed finally in the mid 1920’s. Autos now could travel twelve months of the year.
The Lincoln Highway is recognized as the first graveled road highlighted with markers from the East Coast to its terminus in San Francisco. This roadway truly . . . — Map (db m18026) |
| California (Sacramento County), Gold River — 746 — The Coloma Road |
| | Alder Springs, South of this point, marks the Old Coloma Road, running between Sutter’s Fort and Culluh-mah (Coloma). Established in 1847, this road was used by James W. Marshall in January 1848 to bring the first gold from Sutter’s Mill to the Fort. Later, travelled by thousands to and from the diggings, it became the route of California’s first stageline, established in 1849 by James F. Birch — Map (db m11901) |
| California (Sacramento County), Rancho Cordova — 698 — Fifteen Mile House |
| | Owned and operated from 1857 as a stage station by Henry F. W. Deterding. This was the site of the second remount station of the Central Overland Pony Express during March-July 1860. Here on April 4, 1860, Sam (Bill) Hamiton with the first eastward mail of the Pony Express changed ponies with Morman Tavern as his next stop.
California Registered Historical Landmark No. 698
Plaque placed by the California State Park Commission in cooperation with the Sacramento County Historical . . . — Map (db m2034) |
| California (Sacramento County), Sacramento — El Camino Real Bell |
| | This commemorative bell celebrates a combined century of service by the California Federation of Women’s Clubs and California State Automobile Association including the establishment of bell markers along the historical El Camino Real. — Map (db m14819) |
| California (Sacramento County), Sacramento — Father Junipero Serra — 1713 – 1784 |
| | Dedicated to the Memory of
FATHER JUNIPERO SERRA
1713 - 1784
the first Franciscan missionary
to whom California owes an
everlasting tribute – he brought
civilization to our land and in deed
and character he deserves a foremost
place in the history of our state — Map (db m14817) |
| California (Sacramento County), Sacramento — 745 — The Coloma Road |
| | Sutter’s Fort, established by Capt. John A. Sutter in August 1839, marked the Western end of the Coloma Road. Opened in 1847, this road ran from the Fort to Sutter’s sawmill at Coloma. Used by James W. Marshall in January 1848 to bring the news of the gold discovery to Sutter. It was traversed later by thousands of miners going to and from the diggings in 1849. The Coloma Road became the route of California’s first stage line, established by James E. Birch. — Map (db m11897) |
| California (Sacramento County), Sacramento — The Pony Express — Russell, Majors, Waddell — Founders, Owners, Operators |
| | 1861 ** 1961
120 celebrated riders rode 650,000 miles with only one rider killed by Indians, one schedule not completed and one mail pouch lost. — Map (db m11348) |
| California (San Benito County), San Juan Bautista — El Camino Real — (The Kings Highway) |
| | The above marker shows the direction of the road that connected the 21 Missions. Expeditions left here to go north to Mission Santa Clara or go south to the head-quarters at Mission San Carlos Borromeo de Carmelo.
This road was used from 1797 to about 1850.
__________________
Erected by Boy Scout Troop 233 - Salinas, California, March 3, 1968 as qualification for the Historical Trails Award. — Map (db m15344) |
| California (San Benito County), San Juan Bautista — El Camino Real Bell |
| | . . . — Map (db m15335) |
| California (San Bernardino County), Fenner — John Wilkie Safety Roadside Rest Area At Fenner |
| | As Caltrans Highway Superintendent for the Needles area, John Wilkie sought ways to improve maintenance at this Rest Area. Pursuing this goal, John became a statewide leader in increasing employment opportunities for persons with disabilities.
John's passionate belief in the abilities of people let him to develop and promote the "Roads as Bridges to Employment" program. Today, throughout California, Rest Areas are maintained by persons with disabilities.
John represented the highest . . . — Map (db m335) |
| California (San Bernardino County), Upland — George Chaffey, Jr. — 1848–1932 |
| |
Man of Vision
Land, Water and Power
Father of
The Model Colony
Sponsored by
Upland Sister Cities Association.
Upland's Sister City
Mildura, Australia,
was founded by
George and W.B. Chaffey.
John Edward Svenson, FNSS
Sculptor — Map (db m168) |
| California (San Bernardino County), Upland — 1028 — Madonna of the Trail |
| | (South Face)
N.S.D.A.R. Memorial
to the
Pioneer Mothers
of the
Covered Wagon Days.
(East Face)
This trail, trod by the Padres in Spanish Days,
became, under Mexican rule, the road connecting
Los Angeles, later the American Post Road.
(North Face)
The National Old Trails Road.
(West Face)
Over this trail, November 1826, Jedediah Smith, seeking a river flowing westward, led a band of sixteen trappers, the first Americans to enter California overland.
— Map (db m162) |
| California (San Diego County), San Diego — 784 — El Camino Real |
| | This plaque is placed on the 250th anniversary of the birth of California’s Apostle Padre Junipero Serra O.F.M., to mark the Southern terminus of El Camino Real as Padre Serra knew it and helped to blaze it.
1713 – November 24 – 1963 — Map (db m11958) |
| California (San Diego County), San Diego — 257 — Women of the Mormon Battalion |
| |
[Marker located on Front of Base:
Mormon women were anxious to reach the glorious West and any means offered seemed an answer to prayer to help them on their way. When it was learned four laundresses would be allowed each of the five companies, the wives of the soldiers made application and twenty were chosen. Men who could meet the expenses were permitted to take their families. Hence nearly eighty women and children accompanied the Battalion. They endured the hardships of the . . . — Map (db m14484) |
| California (San Francisco City and County), San Francisco — Western Terminus of the Lincoln Highway |
| | You are standing at the western terminus of the Lincoln Highway, the first direct coast-to-coast highway from Times Square in New York City to Lincoln Park in San Francisco. It was conceived in 1912 by Carl Fisher (founder of the Indianapolis Speedway and pioneer developer of Miami Beach) who encouraged manufacturers of autos, tires and cement to contribute funds to establish a direct motor-vehicle route, traversing 3,300 miles through 12 states, from the Atlantic Ocean to the Pacific Ocean. . . . — Map (db m18145) |
| California (San Mateo County), Portola Valley — 825 — Casa de Tableta |
| | This structure, built by Felix Buelna in the 1850s, served as a gambling retreat and meeting place for Mexican-Californios. It was strategically located on the earliest trail used both by rancheros and American settlers crossing the peninsula to the coast. Acquired by an American in 1868, it has continued to serve under various names as a roadhouse and saloon. — Map (db m11992) |
| California (Santa Clara County), Gilroy — Butterfield Overland Stage |
| | On September 16, 1857, John Butterfield, a New Yorker, received a contract with the U.S. Post Office Department to establish reliable transportation between Missouri and San Francisco.
As a young man he joined with Henry Wells and William Fargo to establish the American Express Company. Later, Wells and Fargo set up their own operations in California, separate from American Express.
The California Route traversed from the south east part of the state through Los Angeles to the San . . . — Map (db m18501) |
| California (Santa Clara County), Saratoga — 435 — Saratoga — (Formerly Toll Gate, McCartysville, Bank Mills) |
| |
Anza exploring party passed through the Saratoga area March 25, 1776. Lumbering in the mountains, which began 1847 and continued many years, brought the first settlers 1850. Among other industries established were lime quarry 1850s, grist mill 1854, tannery 1863, paper mill 1868, and pasteboard mill 1870. Pacific Congress Springs, popular resort, 1866–1942. Pioneered in fruit industry. Blossom Festivals began in 1900. — Map (db m2624) |
| California (Shasta County), Shasta — “Stage Drivers’ Plaque” |
| | In Loving Memory to These Pioneers Who “Held the Ribbons” but Have Turned the Bend in this Road
One of the best known and beloved men in California
Williamson Lyncoya Smith • Aug 6. 1830. Born on a plantation on the James River, Bedford Co. Va. Named “Lyncoya” by President Andrew Jackson. 1822, family settled in Pike Co. Mo. Apr. 25, 1850, left Pike Co. Mo. with McPike & Strothers Express Line for California. Aug. 6, 1950, arrived in Placerville Calif. 1851, . . . — Map (db m1177) |
| California (Shasta County), Shasta — 377 — Pioneer Baby's Grave |
| | Charles, infant son of George and Helena Cohn Brownstein of Red Bluff, died December 14, 1864. He was buried near land established by the Shasta Hebrew Congregation as a Jewish Cemetery in 1857. One of the earliest such cemeteries in the region. Since there was no Jewish burial ground in Red Bluff, Charles’ parents made the arduous journey to Shasta to lay their baby to rest. Concern for the fate of the grave led to the rerouting of Highway 299 in 1923.
California registered historical . . . — Map (db m1184) |
| California (Shasta County), Whiskeytown — Toll Bridge |
| | To cross Clear Creek in 1865 it would have cost you 10 cents to walk across, 25 cents to ride over on horseback, and $1.25 to cross by wagon. Charles Camden, the bridge owner, spent $20,000 to improve the road between here and the town of Shasta. He widened the road, built a bridge over Whiskey Creek, and improved the and covered the bridge over this creek.
The investment paid off. With a franchise obtained from the state of California, Camden collected tolls for 50 years from travelers going between Shasta and Weaverville. — Map (db m12565) |
| California (Shasta County), Whiskeytown — Tower House Historic District |
| | Down this short trail, a bridge crosses Clear Creek just before the creek converges with Crystal and Mill Creeks. Prehistory and history converge here, too – on the Tower House Historic District. For more than 6000 years this area was home to the Wintu People. Other evidence of human enterprise and growth are here as well, sparked by the discovery of gold in Clear Creek during the mid 1800s.
Water is the thread that connects history here. These streams provided year-round water, relief . . . — Map (db m12545) |
| California (Sierra County), Bassetts — Site of Howard Ranch and Inn 1865 |
| | The Log Cabin Inn was rebuilt and renamed, Bassett House, by Mary and Jacob H. Bassett in 1871. This stopover was used by state and freight teams between Truckee, Sierraville, Gold Lake, and Downieville until 1906. No wayfarer ever went away hungry from the Bassett House.
Dedicated October 14, 1970 by Naomi Parlor No. 36 and Auburn Parlor No. 233 Native Daughters of the Golden West — Map (db m21897) |
| California (Siskiyou County), Hilt — Jefferson Davis Highway — 1808 - 1889 |
| | Jefferson Davis
1808 - 1869
Highway No 99
California — Map (db m12528) |
| California (Solano County), Benicia — Dedicated to the Memory of Pony Express Riders — 1860 The Knights of the Saddle 1861 |
| | William Hamilton, the first Pony Express rider to reach Benicia on the final relay. Carrying the mail from St. Joseph, Missouri to California. Arrived in this city April 23, 1860, at 7 a.m. Thomas J. Bedford, a young Benician, took the mochila by ferry across Carquinez Straits to San Francisco via Martinez and Oakland. — Map (db m16325) |
| California (Solano County), Benicia — Pony Express Ferry “Carquinez” |
| | [Front of Marker:]
Dedicated April 23, 2000
by
James Stretesky
Benicia Historical Society
Benicia (N.S.G.W.) Native Sons
Richard & Veronica Tipton
Benicia Camel Barn Museum
Exxon Mobile, Benicia Refinery
Benicia Chamber of Commerce
Benicia Volunteer Fire Department
Pony Express Trail Association
[A list of sponsors is on bottom of base]
[Back of marker:]
Captain Oliver C. Coffin and his brothers purchased the ferry “Carquinez” from an eastern . . . — Map (db m16327) |
| California (Stanislaus County), Knights Ferry — Knights Ferry Covered Bridge |
| | Built in 1864, to replace the original bridge washed away by the flood of 1862. Fastened together with locust pins. A toll bridge until purchased by Stanislaus County in 1885.
Dedicated May 30, 1948
Rededicated May 2, 1988 — Map (db m12013) |
| California (Stanislaus County), Knights Ferry — Knights Ferry Hook & Ladder — Est. December 8, 1871 |
| | The Hook and Ladder Fire Wagon was purchased in New York, by Knights Ferry and shipped around the Horn. Arriving in San Francisco in 1872. On arrival it was “claimed” by a S.F. Fire Company. A delegation from Knights Ferry liberated the fire wagon and brought it home. In 1998 the Oakdale Rural Volunteers completely rebuilt it to its original splendor. — Map (db m12945) |
| California (Stanislaus County), Newman — Orestimba |
| | A local Indian word for "meeting place". Nearby are the famous Indian rocks and sycamore grove where mission padres met with the local Indian tribes. Visited by Lt. Moraga and Fr. Viader on October 25, 1810. Became a favorite watering place for travelers of El Camino Viejo, "the Old Road", that traversed the west side of the valley from San Pedro to San Antonio".
Erected April 20, 1974
Estanislao Chapter No. 58 NGH
E Clampus Vitus — Map (db m17243) |
| California (Tehama County), Red Bluff — Herbert S. Miles Safety Roadside Rest |
| | In recognition of his contributions to the State highway system over a 42 year career and his leadership as District Engineer in establishing the Safety Roadside Rest Program in California.
Redding Rotary and Friends — Map (db m1116) |
| California (Tuolumne County), Chinese Camp — To Honor Eddie Webb |
| | Born December 17, 1880, in Snelling, Calif. One of the last of the stage drivers, Eddie made the haul from Chinese to the Coulterville, Groveland areas between 1898-1902 and drove the first mail stage over the "new" Shawmut Road.
Dedicated By Matuca Chapter, No. 1849
E Clampus Vitus
May 6, 1961
— Map (db m907) |
| California (Tuolumne County), Columbia — 438 — Parrott’s Ferry — Mark Twain Bret Harte Trail |
| | Site of ferry crossing established 1860 by Thomas H. Parrott connecting mining towns of Tuttletown and Vallecito. Ferry in operation until 1903 when first bridge built. Ferry boat of flat bottom wooden construction propelled on heavy cables. Cable anchorage in large boulder Calaveras side of river still visible (1949) at low water, sandbag dam built to form small lake. — Map (db m6839) |
| California (Tuolumne County), Kennedy Meadows — Sonora Mono Toll Road |
| | Oldest of the Trans-Sierra Emigrant Trails to California is spectacular Sonora Pass crossed by Highway 108, second highest (9,626 feet) of all the highway crossings of the range. The Bartleson-Bidwell Party, with mules, horses and oxen, made the first crossing on October 18, 1841. This route was not attempted by wagons until 1852. “Grizzly” Adams took the trail over Sonora Pass in April, 1854, and reported “on all sides lay old axel trees and wheels ….melancholy evidence of . . . — Map (db m12481) |
| California (Tuolumne County), Kennedy Meadows — Sonora Pass — Elevation 9,628 — Historical Landmark |
| | The idea of a wagon road through this pass connecting Tuolumne County with mining towns of Mono County was first called to attention by Andrew Fletcher in 1862. The original trail through Sonora Pass was opened for pack animals in September 1862. The trail passed over this divide, departed from the route of the present highway, one mile west, climbed northwesterly through St. Mary’s pass. Elev. 10, 040 ft. Then down the canyon of the Clark Fork of the Stanislaus River.
Then in 1863 the route . . . — Map (db m12480) |
| California (Tuolumne County), Sonora — Emigrant Trail Terminus |
| | Sonora was the goal of many emigrants traveling the various overland and sea routes.
The 1852 Clark-Skidmore Party of emigrants from Elizabethtown, Ohio and Lawrenceburg, Indiana struggled to force a wagon train up the Walker River and over the 10,000 ft. pass east of Sonora. In 1853, more than 2,000 emigrants with 20,000 cattle followed, creating a new emigrant road to Sonora.
Difficult for wagon travel, the Walker River and Sonora wagon route was soon abandoned. The Emigrant Wilderness . . . — Map (db m7566) |
| California (Tuolumne County), Sugarpine — 422 — Sonora Pass – Mono Road — Mark Twain Bret Harte Trail |
| | Toll gate, fine hotel and stables near this spot 1850's. Jedediah Smith reputed to have been first white man to cross over or near Sonora Pass, 1827. Portion of road built by Tuolumne County Water Co., 1852. Surveyed to Bridgeport, Mono County, 1860. Completed 1864 when six horse team took three weeks for round trip, Sonora to Bridgeport. — Map (db m6884) |
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