| Alberta, Athabasca — Athabasca Landing |
| | This was once the "jumping off point" for the vast northland. Here in 1887 the first steamboat "Athabasca" was built to ply the river between Mirror Landing and Grand Rapids.
Steamboats superceded the canoe, York boat, and scow, and were replaced themselves a few decades later by the railway. — Map (db m8837) |
| Alberta, Fort McMurray — Methye Portage |
| | The earliest trade route between eastward and northward flowing waters followed the Clearwater River and the Methye Portage.
Discovered by Peter Pond in 1778 and used continuously for more than a century for more than a century by fur-traders and explorers, including Sir Alexander Mackenzie, Sir John Franklin, and Sir George Simpson. — Map (db m8814) |
| British Columbia (Bulkley-Nechako Regional District), Southbank — Ootsa Lake Nechako Reservoir |
| | In 1952, the Kenney Dam was constructed on the Nechako River to service the new Alcan aluminum smelter at Kitimat, resulting in the creation of the Nechako Reservoir and the relocation of over 75 families. The damming also linked the rivers and lakes of Ootsa, Intata, Whitesail, Chelaslie, Tetachuck, Tahtsa and Natalkuz into the reservoir with a surface area of over 90,000 hectares. — Map (db m8855) |
| British Columbia (Kitimat-Stikine Regional District), Hazelton — Hazelton |
| | Head of sternwheeler navigation on the Skeena. The town grew at the landing close to the Indian village of Gitenmaks. Crews from the Collins Telegraph arrived in 1866. Following them Omineca gold miners, Hudson’s Bay pack strings and “gandy dancers” of the Grand Truck all tramped these streets. Each is a chapter in the history of “the town on the hazel flats.” — Map (db m9073) |
| British Columbia (Skeena-Queen Charlotte Regional District), Tyee — “K-Shian” – The Skeena |
| | The Skeena, “river of mists,” makes a major cleft through the Coast Mountains. To Coastal Tsimshian Indians and Interior tribes it was vital to trade and travel. In later years, Port Essington, near the river’s mouth, became the main port of this swift, treacherous waterway – a route serving pioneers from the 1860s to 1914 when the railway was built. — Map (db m9074) |
| British Columbia (Strathcona Regional District), Campbell River — Seymour Narrows |
| | Treacherous currents, swirling eddies, and turbulent tide-rips still harass vessels, despite the blasting away in 1958 of the twin peaks of Ripple Rock. Charted in 1792 by Captain George Vancouver, the Narrows has claimed numerous ships and lives and is considered by many seamen the worst hazard to marine navigation on the British Columbia coast. — Map (db m9077) |
| Manitoba, Lockport — St. Andrews Caméré Curtain Dam |
| | This is the only Caméré curtain bridge-dam built in North American, and by far the largest ever constructed. H.E .Vautelet, the Canadian engineer responsible for its design, adapted a French technological advancement to deal with the destructive and unpredictable floodwaters of the Red River. It has wooden curtains that dam the river for navigation and roll up to pass the spring freshets. The Canadian government constructed the dam, lock and machine shop/electrical powerhouse in 1907-1910 as . . . — Map (db m9205) |
| Quebec, Cap-des-Rosiers — Carricks Monument |
| | Sacred
to the memory of
187
Irish Immigrants
from Sligo
wrecked here
on April 28th 1847
Ship Carricks
of Whitehaven
87
are buried here
Pray for their souls
Erected by
Parishioners of St Patricks
Parish Montreal
Rev. J. Quinlivan P.P. — Map (db m22854) |
| Germany, Bavaria, Würzburg — Old Cranes — Alter Kranen |
| | In German: In den Jahren 1767-1773 errichtete Fürstbischof Adam Friedrich von Seinsheim ein Hebewerk am Mainufer, das unter dem Namen “Alter Kranen” bekannt ist. Dieser Kran diente den Binnenschiffern bis 1846 zum entladen ihrer Schiffe. Der ausführende Architekt war Franz Ignaz Neumann, der Sohn des berühmten Barockmeisters Balthasar Neumann. Franz Ignaz Neumann hat mit diesem Bauwerk eine noch heute in der Fachwelt bestaunte Anlage geschaffen.
Translated, the . . . — Map (db m22687) |
| Ireland, Connacht (County Galway), Kilronan, Inishmore, Aran Islands — A Fighting Chance |
| | John Ridgeway [sic] & Chay Bylth
rowed the Atlantic in English Rose III
from Orleans to Kilronan, Aran,
Ireland 4th June 1966 - 3rd Sept. 1966
Na laga dia iad — Map (db m22850) |
| 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) |
| Ireland, Munster (County Kerry), Listowel — "River Fort" |
| | This sculpture was designed by
local councillor and craftsman
Tony O'Callaghan
The “Standing Stone” illustrates
the River Feale
which flows around our town.
The “Ring” depicts an earthen fort
situated in the vicinity of the town
from which the town got its name
Lios Tuathail (Listowel).
— Map (db m23989) |
| Alabama (Jefferson County), Birmingham — Julius Ellsberry |
| | In dedication to Julius Ellsberry, the first Black Alabama man to die in World War II; born Birmingham, Ala, 1922.
Enlisted in the U.S. Navy, 1940; First Class Mate [sic] Attendant aboard battleship Oklahoma in the Battle of Pearl Harbor, did sacrifice his life to save his shipmates, December 7, 1941. — Map (db m4635) |
| Alabama (Talladega County), Talladega — USS Talladega (APA-208) — Talladega County — "The Tremblin' T" |
| | Seven Battle Stars
* * * * * * *
World War II
* Iwo Jima Operation
* Okinawa Gunto Operation
First of the 31 ship convoy with occupation troops
to dock at Yokohama on VJ Day, September 2, 1945
Korean War
* 3rd Korean Winter
* Korea, Summer-Fall (1953)
Vietnam War
* Vietnam Defense Campaign
* Vietnamese Counteroffensive Phase II
* Vietnamese Counteroffensive Phase III
Commissioned October 31, 1944
Struck from Naval Register September 1, 1976 . . . — Map (db m12212) |
| Arizona (Yavapai County), Prescott — Granite Creek |
| | American History in Arizona is quite recent, although the history of the Native American, Spanish and Mexican occupation periods are much older. Encampments of Native Americans were drawn to the creeks, which offered a fairly reliable source of fresh water, and the Anglo settlers followed suit. The first known Anglo-Americans to camp in the vicinity of Prescott were the Walker and Weaver parties in 1863. The Walker Party camped on the banks of Granite Creek in what is now downtown Prescott. . . . — Map (db m20666) |
| California (Alameda County), Fremont — 46 — Vallejo Flour Mill |
| | Site of flour mill, Niles, built 1853 by Don Jose De Vallejo, brother of General Vallejo, on his Rancho Arroyo De La Alameda. Niles was once called "Vallejo Mills". Stone aqueduct carrying water for mill parallels Niles Canyon Road. — Map (db m14801) |
| California (Alameda County), Oakland — USS Potomac |
| | Completed in 1934, the Coast Guard Cutter Electra was converted to the presidential yacht and commissioned as a U.S. Navy Vessel, USS Potomac, in 1936. The 165-foot ship, which weighs 376 gross tons and has a cruising speed of 10-13 knots, and served as Franklin Delano Roosevelt's "Floating White House" until the time of his death in 1945.
USS Potomac endured a long decline, with many adventures and many owners, until 1981, when she was purchased by the Port of . . . — Map (db m19056) |
| California (Alameda County), Sunol — Sunol Water Temple |
| |
[Main Marker:]
California Historic
Civil Engineering Landmark
Alameda Creek Water System
1888
San Francisco Section A802 1975
[Second Marker:]
Restoration of the Sunol Water Temple
Started May 27, 1997
------------
Willie L. Brown – Mayor • E. Dennis Normandy – Commission President • Victor G. Makras – Commission Vice-President • Robert K. Werbe – Commissioner •
Frank L. Cook – Commissioner • Ann Moller Caen – . . . — Map (db m24499) |
| California (Calaveras County), Angels Camp — 276 — Robinson's Ferry |
| | In 1848 John W. Robinson and Stephen Mead established ferry transport for freight, animals and persons across river. In 1856 Harvey Wood purchased interest and later acquired property which was maintained by Wood family until 1911. Charges were 50 cents for each passenger, horse, jenny or other animal. — Map (db m6845) |
| California (Contra Costa County), Martinez — Martinez-Benicia Ferry — "Gateway to the Gold Fields" |
| | Founded by Dr. Robert Semple in 1847, the Martinez-Benicia ferry was the first established and longest operating ferry service in the S.F. Bay Area. In 1850 Oliver Coffin took over the operation and with his brothers purchased a new ferryboat, the "Carquinez", and built the Ferry Street Wharf, once located 100 feet west of this spot. The Pony Express, on one of its trips to San Francisco, first set foot in Contra Costa County on April 23, 1860, after an early morning ferry trip from Benicia. . . . — Map (db m24627) |
| California (Contra Costa County), Martinez — Pony Express Ferry "Carquinez" |
| |
Dedicated April 23, 2005
Martinez
By James Stretestky · Julian M. Frazer · Martinez Historical Society · Mayor Rob & Carole Schroder · Supervisor Gayle B. Uilkema · Vice Mayor Mark & Dianne Ross · Tesoro's Golden Eagle Refinery · Bart, Jane, Pete, Paul · Pat & Pam Bisio · Pony Express Trail Association
Sponsors: Wells Fargo Since 1852 · Ray & Denis Fowler · Haute Stuff Restaurant · Robert & Susan Chandler · A.T. Bray Family · Thomas & Catherine Greerty · Romeo Family · . . . — Map (db m19224) |
| California (Humboldt County), Eureka — 882 — Humboldt Harbor Historical District |
| | Captain Jonathan Winship made the first recorded entry into Humboldt Bay by sea in June 1806. Encountered in 1849 by Josiah Gregg’s party. New word of its existence reached San Francisco. By 1850 the Laura Virginia Association had founded Humboldt City, Union (Arcata), Bucksport, and Eureka. In subsequent years the bay became a major north coast lumber port and shipbuilding center.
California registered Historical Landmark No. 882
Plaque placed by the State Department of Parks and . . . — Map (db m1555) |
| California (Humboldt County), Shelter Cove — Built to Last — Withstanding the fury of the coast |
| | The Mendocino presented a huge challenge to the designers of this lighthouse
The lighthouse’s assigned position was a storm-battered, 400-foot cliff prone to frequent earthquakes and landslides. The compact tower, with its lifesaving beacon, had to be built to last.
The lighthouse was fabricated in San Francisco in 1867, then disassembled
and shipped to Cape Mendocino. about 35 miles north of here. The heavy lighthouse pieces were landed on Cape Mendocino through heavy surf, hauled up . . . — Map (db m1108) |
| 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 (Humboldt County), Shelter Cove — Saving Lighthouse History |
| | A new home in Shelter Cove. Shelter Cove is not the original home of the Cape Mendocino lighthouse. The lighthouse operated at Cape Mendocino, 35 miles north of here.
The compact metal tower was installed on a cliff at the cape in 1868 to warn ships away from the hazards of the rocky coast.
After it was deactivated and replaced by a pole beacon in 1971, the lighthouse began to deteriorate. Earthquakes and landslides threatened to send it over the cliff. In 1994, the US Coast . . . — Map (db m1107) |
| California (Humboldt County), Trinidad — 216 — Town of Trinidad |
| | Founded April 8, 1850, Trinidad is the oldest town on the Northern California coast. During the 1850s, it served as a vital supply link between ships anchored at Trinidad Bay and miners in the Klamath, Trinity, Salmon River, and Gold Bluff mines. It was the county seat of Klamath County (now disbanded) from 1851 to 1854, but its population declined as Eureka and other area port cities developed.
California registered historical landmark No. 216
Plaque placed by the State Department . . . — Map (db m1188) |
| California (Marin County), Inverness — Point Reyes Light Station |
| | Point Reyes Light Station, built 1870,
has been placed on the National Register of Historic Places by the United States Department of the Interior. — Map (db m890) |
| California (Mariposa County), Coulterville — 6011 — Bagby |
| | From a vista point near the 1,156 long, 130 foot high bridge, completed in 1966, the site of Bagby lies east under, and sometimes exposed beside, the back waters of Lake McClure. Bagby's history passed through three definite development eras. From 1850 to 1859 it was the site for Thomas E. Ridley's ferry. Then a dam and Fremont's water-powered stamp mills were built there, and the place renamed Benton Mills for his father-in-law. Later Benjamin A, Bagby built a hotel, store, saloon, and . . . — Map (db m5957) |
| California (Mendocino County), Mendocino — Point Cabrillo Light Station |
| | The Point Cabrillo Light Station was built in 1908 by the US Lighthouse Service to protect the "Doghole Schooners" that plied the lumber trade between San Francisco and the Redwood Coast. These steam ships and sailing vessels were known for their ability to navigate the small coves, or "dogholes," of Mendocino's Rocky Shoreline. The third order Fresnel lens, which was turned by a clockworks mechanism with a descending weight, concentrated the light of a Kerosene Lamp through concentric prisms. . . . — Map (db m543) |
| California (Sacramento County), Folsom — Folsom Dam Improvements — Promoting Public Safety for the Sacramento Region |
| |
Folsom Dam and Reservoir are a component of the Central Valley Project, owned and operated by the Bureau of Reclamation, Mid-Pacific Region, Central California Area Office
Construction of Folsom Dam by the Corps began in October 1948 and was completed in May 1956. Folsom Dam was then transferred to Reclamation for operation.
Folsom Dam is a concrete gravity dam 340 feet high and 1,400 feet long flanked by left and right earthfill wing dams. “The Folsom . . . — Map (db m17644) |
| California (Sacramento County), Gold River — The Treasured American River |
| | The river before you is not the same river that flowed through here 200 years ago when the Nisenan Indians caught salmon and collected acorns along its bank. The river has been mined, dammed and surrounded by our cities, yet it still supports healthy runs of Chinook salmon and steelhead. The American River remains a vital part of our region and its protection is in your hands. — Map (db m15836) |
| California (Sacramento County), Rancho Murieta — 439 — Sheldon Grist Mill |
| | Site of Grist Mill built by Jared Dixon (Joaquin) Sheldon 1846-47 on Omochumnes Rancho, granted to him by Mexican Government 1843. Sheldon born Vermont January 8, 1813, came to California 1832. Sheldon shot July 11, 1851, by miners in quarrel over dam he built which flooded miners’ claims.
Tablet placed by California Centennials Commission. Base furnished by Liberty Parlor No. 213 Native Daughters and Elk Grove Parlor No. 41 Native Sons of the Golden West. Dedicated May 8, 1949.
. . . — Map (db m2036) |
| California (Sacramento County), Sacramento — “Cobblestone” Ballast |
| | Sailing ships since the “Gold Rush” laden with supplies and sitting deep in the water just above the river bottom have inched their way slowly up the Sacramento River to Sacramento. After unloading, the ships would risk rolling over because they were sitting high in the water without ballast to stabilize the vessel on its way back to San Francisco. The natural product to serve the purpose of ballast and a secondary cargo was “paving stones” or blocks which could be . . . — Map (db m16474) |
| California (Sacramento County), Sacramento — City Wharf and Warehouses |
| | The City’s Wharf and Warehouse probably was constructed in the late 1880’s. A south extension likely was added around 1900. The small waterfront facility provided river-craft dockage for a number of small independent operators. As indicated by the rooftop sign in the photo above, the American Fish Company had leased space within the building. A comprehensive historic study of these businesses has never been undertaken and little is known of the vessels or the transportation services they provided. — Map (db m16500) |
| California (Sacramento County), Sacramento — Independent Boat Operations of the 1850s |
| | The Sacramento Wood Company’s steamer wood freight shed, between N and O streets in the Front Street right-of-way, remained at this location for approximately 30 years. The Sacramento Wood Company could trace his roots from an earlier enterprise that gathered cut firewood from the banks of the upper Sacramento River.
In the photo above, the building at this time sports a banner reading “Opposition Str. Chin Du Wan.” The Chin Du Wan was a popular steamboat that operated from . . . — Map (db m16508) |
| California (Sacramento County), Sacramento — John Sutter Landing |
| | On the south bank of the American River near this spot General John A. Sutter landed August 12, 1839 and founded New Helvetia which is now Sacramento City. Also on this river in the mill race at Coloma fifty miles east of here on January 24, 1848 gold was discovered by James W. Marshall an employee of General Sutter. This monument is erected to commemorate these important historical events — Map (db m14925) |
| California (Sacramento County), Sacramento — Merchant Marine Monument |
| | Dedicated to all Merchant Marine Seaman
Members of the U.S. Merchant Marines serving world wide aboard
U.S. Flag cargo ships during World War II suffered a greater
percentage of war-related deaths than did all of the
nation’s regular armed forces combined.
The Merchant Marine Seaman suffered losses of 3.4%
Of the over 200,000 serving, with 6,798 killed.
The total of all other armed services suffered losses of 1.78%.
We were granted U.S. Armed Forces Veteran status January 19, . . . — Map (db m16493) |
| California (Sacramento County), Sacramento — Pony Express River Steamer “Antelope” |
| | [Front of Marker]
Dedicated April 13, 2000
SACRAMENTO
by
James Stretesky
George E. Kuchler Family
Rotary Club of Sacramento
Burnett & Sons Planing Mill and Lumber Co – Since 1869
Sacramento Traditional Jazz Society
Sacramento Metro Chamber of Commerce
Pony Express Trail Association
[Sponsors are listed on bottom of base.]
[Back of Marker]
The Pony Express mail was carried by river steamers of the “California Steam Navigation . . . — Map (db m15702) |
| California (Sacramento County), Sacramento — Prisoner of the River — LaGrange |
| | Among the many sailing ships bound for California in 1849 was the LaGrange, a three-masted bark from Salem, Massachusetts. The ship arrived at Sacramento on October 3, 1849, and the following June was purchased by the city for a prison. In preparation for its new role, the ship was stripped to the masts and cells built in its hold.
The LaGrange served as Sacramento’s jail until November 1859 when it sank during a week-long storm. Other ships were used as hotels and warehouses . . . — Map (db m16989) |
| California (Sacramento County), Sacramento — Sacramento’s Maritime Heritage |
| | The second world war found river transportation companies continuing service on the Sacramento River while under the restrictions of wartime conditions. In the 1950’s, river commerce consisted of the transportation of barges of bulk grain, petroleum, and crushed rock between Bay Area points and upriver as far north as Colusa. In 1954, Sacramento River traffic amounted to 2,172,451 tons of cargo, largely rice. River commerce in the 1960’s continued to be primarily tug boats and barges including . . . — Map (db m16467) |
| California (Sacramento County), Sacramento — The Docks |
| | “The Docks” has had a remarkably varied occupational history. Gold Rush immigrants camped along the riverbank. In the following years, a limited number of individuals and families lived in the area in private residences and lodging houses. From the beginning of Euro-American occupation, however, the area was dominated by commercial and industrial activity because of its location adjacent to a navigational river. Speculators; small businesses including saloons, fish wholesalers, . . . — Map (db m16511) |
| California (Sacramento County), Sacramento — The Guy West Bridge |
| |
Named in honor of
Dr. Guy A. West
Founding President of
Sacramento State College
(1947 – 1966)
Under his guidance and dedicated
leadership, the university grew from
four faculty and fewer than two
hundred students to a comprehensive
regional institute of higher
learning with a national reputation
for excellence — Map (db m19578) |
| California (Sacramento County), Sacramento — The Northern Electric Bridge |
| | In 1911, the Northern Electric Railway Company, along with Sacramento and Yolo counties, built the Northern Electric Bridge. The bridge carried a single railroad track with twin motor-vehicle roadways. Pedestrian walks cantilevered from the central support structure. It had two fixed-approach spans, each 125 feet long, with a center draw of 400 feet. The 12-foot square operator’s house, constructed of 4-inch thick concrete, was placed over the center of the structure.
Two 60 HP-D.C. motors . . . — Map (db m16492) |
| California (Sacramento County), Sacramento — The River Lines Fleet |
| | In the early 1920’s the California Transportation Company, the leading passenger carrier on the Sacramento and San Joaquin rivers, announced plans to build two modern passenger vessels for its Sacramento to San Francisco run. In 1927, the Delta King and Delta Queen, with a combined length of 500 feet, became the largest vessels ever to regularly operate on the Sacramento River. For the first time in Sacramento’s history, the foot of M Street became the central point of passenger . . . — Map (db m16507) |
| California (Sacramento County), Sacramento — The United States Merchant Marine |
| | Throughout history, two categories of ships, merchants and naval combatants, have carried out the world’s seagoing activities. Those of the merchant marine, known as merchantmen, carry cargo, passengers, and perform special functions during times of war. Navies have the mission of maintaining sea lanes to enable the nation’s merchant marine to move freely and safely and to prevent an enemy from doing so. In times of war, the distinction between merchantmen and fighting ships can be narrow. . . . — Map (db m16468) |
| California (Sacramento County), Sacramento — Tower Bridge: Gateway to the Capital |
| |
Identifying A Need
By the early 1930’s, Americans were moving away from trains and ships and turning to automobiles as their mode of transporation. As a result, traffic on roadways increased dramatically. In Sacramento, M Street (now Capital Mall), one of the city’s busiest routes during his period, served as a major link to U.S. Highway 40 (now West Capital Avenue and State Route 275). The Sacramento Northern Railroad Bridge spanned the Sacramento River directly north of the . . . — Map (db m16490) |
| California (Sacramento County), Sacramento — U.S.S. Sacramento – 1964 |
| | Constructed during the early years of the Viet Nam War, she was commissioned as a “Combat Supply and Auxiliary Support Ship” (AEO-1). At 793’ and 53,000 tons, she is by far the largest ship in the US Fleet to be named ”Sacramento.” With a crew of 600, she has been assigned to the Seventh Fleet and award fifteen Battle Stars. She has been dubbed a floating supermarket, holding in a single load eight million gallons of fuel, 1600 tons of ammunition, 250 tons of . . . — Map (db m16464) |
| California (Sacramento County), Sacramento — U.S.S. Sacramento 1863 – 1867 |
| | A wooden sloop, 229 feet long and with a crew of 138, she was commissioned for blockade service during the Civil War. First, she contained Confederate ships off the coast of North Carolina and later Atlantic ports in Europe. In 1865, she “bottled up” the Confederate ship Rappahannock in Calais, France and engaged the Confederate “Iron Clad” CSS Stonewall in battle off Ferrol, Spain. After the close of the Civil War, the USS Sacramento saw extensive . . . — Map (db m16470) |
| California (Sacramento County), Sacramento — U.S.S. Sacramento 1914 – 1942 — The Galloping Ghost of the China Coast |
| | Brought into service in 1914 to join the United States “Great White Fleet”, dubbed such for the sparkling white paint used on naval ships at the time, she was in service 28 years and two world wars. A 226-foot gleaming white steam gunboat with a crew of 160, she earned her many names and associations.
In Japan she was called the “Sacramento Moru”, and in Central America she was part of the “Banana Fleet.” In 1919, she served in Murmansk, Russia, . . . — Map (db m16475) |
| California (Sacramento County), Sacramento — USS California Bell Memorial |
| | [Left Side of Base Holding Bell]
Only battleship
built on the
Pacific Coast
Launched at
Mare Island
Navy Yard
Nov. 20, 1919
Ship’s bell
dedicated and
rung for the
last time by
Governor
Earl Warren
Oct. 27, 1949
[Right Side of Base Holding Bell]
World War I
Pearl Harbor
Mariana’s
Leyte Gulf
Surigao
Lincayen Gulf
Okinawa
Japan
Placed out
of commission
in reserve at
Philadelphia
Feb. 14, 1947
Third Naval
Ship so named — Map (db m14832) |
| California (Sacramento County), Sacramento — USS Sacramento (PG-19) — “The Galloping Ghost of the China Coast” — 1914 – 1946 |
| | As part of our nation’s maritime history, USS Sacramento steamed more than one-half million miles during her proud service in the United States Navy.</br>
She logged 64,000 miles convoying 483 ships through submarine-infested European waters during World War I. Moved to the Pacific in 1922, the gun boat’s presence was witnessed during the Russian and Chinese revolutions.
Called the “Galloping Ghost of the China Coast”, USS Sacramento was a positive symbol of America’s . . . — Map (db m16483) |
| California (Sacramento County), Sacramento — View Near the M Street Bridge |
| | Sacramento’s importance during the Gold Rush was as a supply depot for outlying towns in the foothill-mining region. The City’s central location to the northern mining region, combined with reliable year-round river transportation to San Francisco, made it ideal as the commercial service point for the mines. — Map (db m16496) |
| 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 Diego County), San Diego — Clifton A. F. Sprague, Vice Admiral, USN — Born 8 January 1896 - Died 11 April 1955 |
| | [Front]:
Awards
Navy Cross for the 25 October 1944 action off Samar. Admiral Sprague was aboard the escort carrier, USS Fanshaw Bay during this engagement.
Legion of Merit Medal for his command of the USS Wasp.
Gold Star in lieu of second Legion of Merit for the Morotai landings.
Gold Star in lieu of third Legion of Merit for the Iwo Jima and Okinawa operaitons.
Gold Star in lieu of fourth Legion of Merit for Operation Crossroads.
Presidential Unit Citation to Task Unit . . . — Map (db m8521) |
| California (San Diego County), San Diego — USS Gambier Bay CVE 73 and Composite Squadron VC-10 — United States Navy — In Memory of the Men Lost in Action |
| | [Panel 1]:
Eternal God who alone spreads out the heavens and rules the raging seas, may this memorial bring continued remembrance to the one hundred and thirty seven men who died defending their country in time of danger, and whose bodies found their last resting place in the waters of the Pacific. May it call to mind that they were called by their nation to defend liberty and preserve unity.
We do not what those who died in air and sea battles, often against hopeless odds, to . . . — Map (db m8480) |
| California (San Diego County), San Diego — USS Hoel * USS S. B. Roberts * USS Johnston — United States Navy — "In Everlasting Memory" |
| | Inscribed here are the names of 525 men who died in the Battle of Leyte Gulf during the liberation of the Philippine Islands on 25 Oct 1944. Their ships, the destroyers USS Johnston (DD-557) and USS Hoel (DD-533) and destroyer escort USS Samuel B. Roberts (DE-413), were sunk while fighting a vastly superior force of four battleships, eight cruisers and eleven destroyers in what was to be the last and longest surface battle of World War II.
May the names and sacrifice these brave men made . . . — Map (db m8428) |
| California (San Francisco City and County), San Francisco — Dewey Monument |
| | (Panel 1)
On the night of April Thirtieth 1898 Commodore Deweys squadron entered Manila Bay and undaunted by the danger of submerged explosives reached Manila at dawn of May First 1898 • Attacked and destroyed the Spanish fleet of ten war ships • Reduced the forts and held the city in subjection until the arrival of troops from America
(Panel 2)
Erected by the citizens of San Francisco to commemorate the victory of the American Navy under Commodore George Dewey at Manila . . . — Map (db m15075) |
| California (San Francisco City and County), San Francisco — Roald Amundsen — 1872-1928 |
| | Roald Amundsen, the Norwegian polar explorer, was the first to detect the magnetic North Pole and to navigate the Northwest Passage, the Arctic water route from the Atlantic to the Pacific. He left Norway with a crew of six on June 16 of 1903 in 1 69-foot converted herring boat named Gjoa. Amundsen spent three years on the perilous journey. The Gjoa continued on, sailing through the Bering Strait and anchored off Point Bonita, outside the Golden Gate, on October 19, 1906. The San Francisco . . . — Map (db m21336) |
| California (San Francisco City and County), San Francisco — San Francisco Bay Shore Line Marker |
| | This tablet marks the shore line of San Francisco Bay at the time of the discovery of gold in California, January 24, 1848. Map reproduced above delineates old shore line.
Placed by Historic Landmarks Committee, Native Sons of the Golden West, 1921.
— Map (db m638) |
| California (San Francisco City and County), San Francisco — The Arrival of the First Japanese Naval Ship |
| | This monument is erected to commemorate the arrival of the first Japanese naval ship Kanrin Maru in San Francisco Bay on 17 March, 1860. The Kanrin Maru crossed the Pacific at the same time as the U.S.S. Powhatan which brought the first Japanese Embassy to the United Stated. Presented to the City of San Francisco by its sister city Osaka as a token of its sincere desire to further strengthen the ties of friendship and goodwill between the United States and Japan and as part of the . . . — Map (db m18266) |
| California (San Joaquin County), Stockton — Head of Navigation |
| | For the Stockton Channel in 1849 was at El Dorado Street. Sailing ships and paddlewheel steamboats made the Stockton Levees a major supply center for the Southern mines during the Gold Rush. In 1933, the Port of Stockton became California’s first modern inland seaport. — Map (db m24182) |
| California (San Mateo County), Half Moon Bay — In Memorial to the Commercial Fisherman Lost at Sea |
| | Down to the sea in ships they go, these chosen men of steel. Though mist and foam and northwest wind is pounding at the keel. So sail they must each crispy morn, away from trees and sod. The sea may own their windburned flesh but their souls belong to God! —by Bud Smith 1975
Lynn Martin 1934 • George P. Nerli 1938 • [missing] • Jose Delago 1974 • Thomas A. Bettencourt 1974 • Nguyen Van Doi 1983 • Bob Starkey 1984 • Keith Young 1988 • Kirk Pringle 1994 • Joseph Fischer . . . — Map (db m14249) |
| California (San Mateo County), Pacifica — 24 and 394 — Discovery of San Francisco Bay |
| | Captain Gaspar de Portola camped, October 31, 1769, by the creek at the south side of this valley, and to that camp scouting parties brought news of a body of water to the east. On November 4 the expedition advanced. Turning inland here, they climbed to the summit of Sweeney Ridge and beheld for the first time the Bay of San Francisco.
State Registered Landmarks Nos. 24 and 394
Tablet placed by California Centennials Commission. Base furnished by County Board of Supervisors in . . . — Map (db m1095) |
| California (San Mateo County), Pescadero — 930 — Pigeon Point Lighthouse |
| | This brick lighthouse was built to incorporate a French first order Fresnel lens. Although no longer used, the lens is still operable in the lantern room. Previously the lens had been installed at Cape Hatteras, North Carolina. It first flashed over the Pacific in November 1872, and the lighthouse has served continuously without structural modifications since that time.
— Map (db m2541) |
| California (Santa Clara County), Alviso — Alviso |
| |
∙∙∙Known as the El Embarcadero de Santa Clara in pre-American days. ∙∙∙Was the port of entry for San Jose prior to the coming of the railroad. ∙∙∙Surveyed and platted by C.S. Lyman in 1849.
∙∙∙Incorporated in 1852.
This structure, built in 1896, by the South Bay Yacht Club, is one of the older buildings in the Alviso area. — Map (db m24342) |
| California (Santa Clara County), Alviso — Location, Location, Location — Once a Hub for the South Bay |
| | Because of its location at the mouth of the Guadalupe River, Alviso was deemed the ideal location for a seaport. In the 1830s and 40s, it was the only port where raw materials and crops could be shipped from the Santa Clara Valley to San Francisco. Following the Gold Rush of 1849, steamships also provided passenger access to San Francisco.
A series of events, however, diminished Alviso’s prospects. Relocation of the state capitol from San Jose to Sacramento in the 1850s caused a decline in . . . — Map (db m24429) |
| California (Santa Clara County), Alviso — Salt Ponds — Past, Present, Future |
| | Beginning with the Ohlone people, who harvested salt for local use and regional trade, small scale salt production on San Francisco Bay expanded into one of the largest industrial solar evaporation complexes in the world. Salt production transformed the South Bay landscape and contributed to the loss of more than 85 percent of the rich tidal marshes that once surrounded the Bay. However, salt ponds can be a natural part of San Francisco Bay.
Twenty-five square miles of former commercial . . . — Map (db m24444) |
| California (Santa Clara County), Alviso — Water Everywhere — Water Seeks Its Own Level |
| | Water in Alviso is a complex issue that touches on the environment, economics, and life safety. Already susceptible to flooding, Alviso’s situation was worsened by regional development. Hard paving, which prevented water absorption into the ground, and increased groundwater pumping caused the water table to drop. As a result, the land subsided, and Alviso dropped 13 feet over the last 100 years. Situated below sea level, it became even more vulnerable to flooding.
More recently, Alviso . . . — Map (db m24414) |
| California (Shasta County), Fall River Mills — 555 — Lockhart Ferry |
| | Established by Samuel Lockhart in 1856 as a link in the first wagon road from Yreka to Red Bluff, the Lockhart Ferry crossed below the confluence of the Fall and Pitt Rivers near this spot. After a massacre in December 1856, the ferry was re-established in 1857 below Fall River Falls. — Map (db m10292) |
| California (Shasta County), Whiskeytown — Kennedy Memorial |
| | [President John F. Kennedy dedicated the Clair A. Hill Whiskeytown Dam on September 28, 1963]
KENNEDY MEMORIAL
PLAQUE
Donated by a Committee of Citizens
Redding – California
Artist – R. Ciabani — Map (db m14434) |
| California (Solano County), Benicia — 973 — Turner/Robertson Shipyard — 1882 – 1918 |
| | In 1882, Mathew Turner of San Francisco relocated his shipyard to Benicia. Turner, the most prodigious shipbuilder in North America, constructed 228 vessels, 169 of which were launched here. In 1913, the shipyard was purchased by James Robertson, who operated it until 1918. The yard sways, and the Whaler "Stambohl", used as a shipyard work platform, are visible at low tide. — Map (db m16337) |
| California (Sonoma County), Bodega Bay — 833 — Bodega Bay and Harbor |
| | Discovered in 1602-03 by the expedition of Vizcaíno. It was named by Bodega in his survey of 1775. The harbor was used in 1790 by Colnett and by the Kusov expeditions in 1809 and 1811. The Russian-American company and their Aleut hunters used the bay as an outpost until 1841. Stephen Smith took control in 1843. Pioneer ships of many nations used Bodega Bay as an anchorage.
California Registered Historical Landmark No. 833
Plaque placed by the State Department of Parks and Recreation . . . — Map (db m856) |
| California (Sonoma County), Jenner — Sandy Beach Cove |
| | Sandy Beach Cover lies below the fort. The principal port of the settlement was 19 miles to the south at Port Rumiantsev (Bodega Bay), where there was a deep-water anchorage and a warehouse. Russian Navy and Russian-American Company ships frequently visited California ports, trading and conducting scientific studies. They stopped at Rumiantsev to load and offload goods and to get fresh water. Vessels from many other countries stopped there to trade as well. There was frequent travel and . . . — Map (db m16362) |
| California (Sonoma County), Sonoma — Embarcadero – St. Louis |
| | A short distance down-stream from this spot, at the head of navigation on the banks of Sonoma Creek, an early landing place was established. From the 1830’s hides and tallow from the Pueblo of Sonoma were shipped to Yerba Buena , and goods and people disembarked here. By 1847 a town, optimistically named St. Louis, had sprung up and steamers from San Francisco were making regularly scheduled trips. From here stage service carried travelers to Sonoma, Bodega and points between. St. Louis existed . . . — Map (db m15315) |
| California (Stanislaus County), Empire — 418 — Empire City |
| | 1 mile south of this spot is the site of Empire City. Founded 1850 by John G. Marvin . Head of navigation on the Tuolumne River, military supply depot and 2nd county seat of Stanislaus County. Destroyed by flood in 1861 – 62.
Dedicated Oct. 28, 1961
Estanislao Chapter No. 58
E. Clampus Vitus — Map (db m19453) |
| California (Stanislaus County), La Grange — Tuolumne Gold Dredge |
| | Behind this monument rests the historic Tuolumne Gold Dredge which started operation at Patricksville, just east of this location, on June 15, 1938. A Walter Johnson No. 52 Model, it floated on a self-created pond of water. It was larger than a football field, weighed over 2500 tons, and cost $543,148 to construct. The dredge used electricity to drive 120 4000 lb. buckets 70 ft. deep to recover gold. It ceased operation in July 1951. The total amount of gold recovered is unknown. — Map (db m7323) |
| 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), Groveland — O’Shaughnessy Dam |
| | (Tablet 1) O’Shaughnessy Dam
1915–1922
City and County of San Francisco.
James Rolph Jr. Mayor
• Foundation Elev. 3388
• Bottom Valves Elev. 3508
• Initial Crest Elev. 3726
• Length of Crest 600
• Storage Cap’y Gals. 66,000,000,000
• Drainage Area Acres 294,000
• Reservoir Area Acres 1590
• Concrete Volume Cu. Yds. 390,000
M.M. O’Shaugnessy, Engineer
Utah Construction Co. Contr’s.
(Tablet 2) Structure Completed 1938 • Height . . . — Map (db m1920) |
| California (Yolo County), West Sacramento — Flood Control — West Sacramento River Walk |
| | On January 15, 1850, the fledging City of Sacramento, consisting mostly of tents and simple wooden buildings, stood in 6 feet of water. Two weeks later, the community pledged $200,000 to levee construction. But before the levee system could be completely developed, the city was inundated 3 more times – In 1852-3, 1861-2, and 1867-8. Eventually, the levee construction was completed and the low-lying areas along the waterfront were filled in, resulting in the city’s downtown streets being . . . — Map (db m15720) |
| California (Yolo County), West Sacramento — Hydraulic Mining — West Sacramento River Walk |
| | Hydraulic gold mining was introduced in the 1850’s. Men with hoses blasted hillsides with powerful jets of water, which reduced the hills to mounds of gravel 20 times faster than with pick and shovel. Massive quantities of gravel and silt from hydraulic mining washed into the river channel, filling the streambed and contributing to flooding in the valley.
The U.S. Bureau of Mines, estimated that $81 million in gold was removed from California mines in 1852. Between 1848 and 1855, . . . — Map (db m15713) |
| California (Yolo County), West Sacramento — Pony Express Bridge |
| | [Front of Marker:]
Dedicated April 23, 2000
WEST SACRAMENTO
by
James Stretesky
First Northern Bank
Daniel F. Ramos Family
Frank C. Ramos Family
Dr. & Mrs. James O. Farley
West Sacramento Land Company
West Sacramento Chamber of Commerce
Pony Express Trail Association
[A list of sponsors is on bottom of base]
[Back of Marker:]
The first bridge to span the Sacramento River was built by the Sacramento and Yolo Bridge Company. It was a wooden spring span . . . — Map (db m15708) |
| California (Yolo County), West Sacramento — Salmon Cannery — West Sacramento River Walk |
| | This is the historic site of the first salmon cannery established on the Pacific Coast. Begun in 1864 by William and George Hume and Andrew Hapgood on a barge moored to the bank, the cannery processed salmon harvested along the rivers – with gill nets and spears – as they migrated up the Sacramento and American Rivers. In comparison, most of today’s salmon are harvested in the ocean before they begin to migrate back up stream.
Hapgood, Hume and Company ran the cannery for 3 years . . . — Map (db m15724) |
| California (Yolo County), West Sacramento — The Rivers’ Flow — West Sacramento River Walk |
| | Prior to European settlement in the mid-1800s, river flows in the valley changed with the seasons: spring torrents followed by low water during the summer. Construction of dams and other flood control measures during the mid-to late 1950s tamed the surrounding rivers’ unpredictable levels, but also destroyed the floodwaters’ natural role in clearing old debris and silt from the channel. Farmlands protected by levees no longer receive nourishing silt provided by periodic flooding.
The . . . — Map (db m15715) |
| California (Yolo County), West Sacramento — Tower Bridge — West Sacramento River Walk |
| | Sacramento’s graceful Tower Bridge has spanned the river since 1936. It is the only historically significant vertical-lift bridge in California and was placed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1982. Lights added in 1986 in honor of its golden anniversary provide a stunning nighttime view of the bridge and Old Sacramento’s waterfront.
The Tower Bridge shares its streamline Moderne architectural style with San Francisco’s Golden Gate Bridge. This style reflects strong, clean vertical lines and smooth surfaces. — Map (db m15711) |
| California (Yolo County), Woodland — Leonidas Taylor |
| | Erected to the memory of Leonidas Taylor. Born in the city of Philadelphia on the 3rd of July 1832. He grew to manhood in the city of St. Louis and was killed by the explosion of the Steamer Belle opposite this spot on the 5th of February 1856; his body was never found.
Far distant from those who loved him, the waters of the Sacramento will roll over him until till that day when the sea shall give up its dead. — Map (db m16355) |
| California (Yuba County), Marysville — Ellis Lake |
| | Beautiful Ellis Lake and scenic surroundings
were made possible through the
foresight and enterprise of
W. T. ELLIS
This plaque presented in honor of 65 years of
Public service on the 87th birthday of
W.T. Ellis, 3-17-53, by grateful citizens of
the community, and the Marysville-Yuba County
Chamber of Commerce — Map (db m17742) |
| California (Yuba County), Marysville — River Pumps |
| | In 1895 pumps were installed at the confluence of the Yuba and Feather Rivers to protect the City of Marysville from the danger of flooding.
These pumps with a capacity to pump 18,265 gallons per minute, helped to keep Marysville dry during the Great Floods of 1955.
Dedicated the 4th Day of April, 1990
Donated by
The Rotary Club of Marysville — Map (db m17741) |
| Connecticut (Fairfield County), Greenwich — Old Greenwich Yacht Club |
| | On July 18, 1640, Daniel Patrick and Robert Feaks landed on these shores in the name of the New Haven Colony to start a new settlement, later called Greenwich. This neck of land is called Elizabeth’s Neck after Mrs. Feaks.
The anchor above this tablet was given to the Club by Clyde B. Ford, a founder. It was taken from the Thames-Sugar boat which sank by the point in April 1930. — Map (db m2048) |
| Connecticut (Litchfield County), New Milford — Ships Bell of the U.S.S. Pittsburgh |
| | North face
Ships Bell of the U.S.S. Pittsburgh
Flagship of Admiral Harry Shepard Knapp
1856 – 1923
South face
Erected in memory of
Admiral Harry S. Knapp
by
Ezra Woods Poat No. 31
American Legion
1951 — Map (db m20917) |
| Delaware (New Castle County), Delaware City — Delaware Historic Civil Engineering Landmark |
| | Chesapeake & Delaware Canal
Designated 1982, Delaware Section, ASCE — Map (db m10204) |
| Delaware (New Castle County), Delaware City — The Diving Bell |
| | Made in Philadelphia 1839 for the Chesapeake and Delaware Canal Company, it was used as an air chamber for workmen to make underwater repairs on the lock gates. The canal was opened in 1829 and was operated until the sea level canal was opened at Reedy Point in 1927. This diving bell as restored in 1961 by the Delaware City Community Park District. — Map (db m10201) |
| Delaware (New Castle County), Newark — Milling in Pencader Hundred |
| | What is Milling? Milling is a process of taking whole bulbs, tubers, nuts, seeds, grains or other foods from its original size to a smaller size by pounding, grinding or rolling it until it is the consistency of a meal, flour or powder. Early Milling From the beginning of history, man has known that grain was a great energy food. When he realized that grain could be planted and cultivated, it became possible for him to stop the wandering life and settle down in one spot. In order to get . . . — Map (db m10712) |
| Delaware (New Castle County), Newark — NC-53 — Washington's Reconnaissance |
| | Generals Washington, Greene and Lafayette came to Iron Hill, August 26, 1777 in hope of viewing British army then landing along Elk River. Only a few tents could be seen. A heavy storm coming up, they spent the night in a nearby farm house. — Map (db m9778) |
| Delaware (New Castle County), Newark — Your Gateway to Pencader Heritage — Exploring the Past |
| | Left Column Welsh Tract Church William Penn granted a 30,000 acre tract of land to three Welshmen, (David Evans, William Davis, and William Willis) in 1701. They and their followers had left southern Wales in search of religious freedom. In encouraging settlement of this portion of "the lower three counties", William Penn was defending his charter against possible incursion of settlers from the adjacent Calvert Charter which established Maryland. The Welsh were an Old School . . . — Map (db m10874) |
| Delaware (New Castle County), Port Penn — Floating Cabins and Skinning Shacks — Symbols of the Marsh |
| | Left Panel The European Markets Port Penn once figured prominently in world markets. As the supply of beaver fur in the American West declined, European demand for quality fur remained high. toward the end of the 19th century, muskrat pelts became an important material for fur coats, hats and winter clothing. Even after their fur went out of fashion in the 20th century, however, muskrat trapping in Port Penn continued providing food for local families. Sturgeon roe (eggs) from the . . . — Map (db m10435) |
| Delaware (New Castle County), Port Penn — NC-131 — Port Penn Front Range Light |
| | In 1875, Congress approved funding to build several lighthouses along this segment of the Delaware River. This site was purchased in April 1876, and by December the Port Penn Front Range Light was completed. Constructed under the direction of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, it was a two story frame structure with a lantern room above. The light was powered by a double-wick oil burner. The floors below served as living space for the lighthouse keeper and his family. Keepers were Henry C. . . . — Map (db m10536) |
| Delaware (New Castle County), Port Penn — The Cannery Lot — Opportunity from Change |
| | Left Panel Local Goods, Global Markets In the changing economy of the late 19th and early 20th centuries, small towns looked for ways to survive. Port Penn's livelihood depended on exporting local agricultural goods to major markets miles away. The cannery and other export operations connected Port Penn's economy to trade networks throughout the country and the world. Center Panel The W.B. & J.S. Zacheis, Inc. cannery operation stood across the street from the schoolhouse from . . . — Map (db m10396) |
| Delaware (New Castle County), Port Penn — The Cleaver House — At the Crossroads of Commerce |
| | Left Panel Changing Times in Port Penn Following construction of the Chesapeake and Delaware Canal (c.1829) a few miles to the north, major shipping began to bypass Port Penn. The town still managed to provide local agricultural producers with a convenient method to export their goods. The port began to lose its competitive advantage with the advent of the railroad. Today Port Penn is known as a fishing village. Center Panel A symbol of the Cleaver family's importance to the . . . — Map (db m10388) |
| Delaware (New Castle County), Port Penn — Wetland Ways — Bob Beck: Preserver of Port Penn Traditions |
| | Port Penn is a community connected to its wetland landscape. Seasonal changes bring about changes in the lifestyles of Port Penners themselves. Autumn waterfowl hunting and winter muskrat trapping lead into spring shad runs and summer sturgeon fishing. The livelihoods of local families have been dependent upon these cycles on the river and marsh habitats for three centuries. This sense of kinship with the environment is characterized by the traditions of people like Bob Beck. Bob's family has . . . — Map (db m10438) |
| Delaware (New Castle County), Wilmington — NC-101 — Brandywine Village |
| | Around 1740 water-powered mills began to appear in this area where the Brandywine River ends its journey falling 124 feet in its final five miles. Small vessels carrying grain from nearby farms sailed directly to the mills. Other ships laden with flour sailed away to distant markets where Brandywine Superfine flour was known for it high quality. In 1799 residents of the community erected a handsome building to serve as a community hall and school. By 1820 several fine millers' homes overlooked . . . — Map (db m13585) |
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