Copperopolis Marker

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Copperopolis in Calaveras County, California — The American West (Pacific Coastal)

Copperopolis
The Town of

Copperopolis Marker Photo, Click for full size

By Syd Whittle, August 23, 2006

1. Copperopolis Marker

Inscription. With the discovery of copper ore in 1860 by Thomas McCarty and William K. Reed, the town of Copperopolis sprang into existence and soon became the largest producer of copper in the western United States. The population of Copperopolis grew to exceed 10,000 by 1863. The Union Mine was the largest producing mine in the area, working three shafts and hundreds of men on the payroll.

During the nations three recent wars, the Civil War, World War I and World War II, much of the copper ore that was so vital to the implements of war was supplied by this area.

During the Civil War the price of copper reached an all time high of 55 cents a pound, falling to 19 cents when the war drew to a close. Although six mines were operating in 1866, they did not hold out for long, for the grade of ore had also fallen. From 1861 until 1976, the camp has produced about 72,500,000 pounds of copper valued at the time at $12,100,000.00

1960 marked the 100th anniversary of the discovery of copper which also marked the beginning of mining asbestos for this unique little “nearly ghost” town of Copperopolis.

Erected 2000 by Matuca Chapter 1849, E. Clampus Vitus, June 17, 2000 (6005) Credo Quia Absurdum.

Marker series. This marker is included in the

By Syd Whittle, August 23, 2006

2. Copperopolis Marker

E Clampus Vitus marker series.

Location. 37° 58.678′ N, 120° 38.306′ W. Marker is in Copperopolis, California, in Calaveras County. Marker is on Main Street, on the right when traveling south. Click for map. Marker is in this post office area: Copperopolis CA 95228, United States of America.

Other nearby markers. At least 8 other markers are within walking distance of this marker. Calaveras Telephone (within shouting distance of this marker); The Old Corner Saloon (within shouting distance of this marker); a different marker also named Copperopolis (about 600 feet away, in a direct line); Thomas McCarty (approx. 0.2 miles away); Copperopolis Armory (approx. 0.2 miles away); Copperopolis Cemetery (approx. 0.2 miles away); The Copperopolis Bell and Cannon (approx. 0.3 miles away); Black Bart at Funk Hill (approx. 0.4 miles away). Click for a list of all markers in Copperopolis.

Regarding Copperopolis. The Town of Copperopolis has been designated as California Registered Historical Landmark No.296

Also see the nearby markers Copperopolis and Copperopolis Armory for additional information.

Also see . . .
1. History of Copperopolis. (Submitted on October 26, 2008, by Syd Whittle of El Dorado Hills, California.)
2. Copperopolis – Town History. (Submitted on October 26, 2008, by Syd Whittle of El Dorado Hills, California.)