| 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) |
| California (Alameda County), Livermore — Joaquin Murrieta and Murrieta's Well |
| | The legend of Joaquin Murrieta is one of the most enduring and fascinating of chapters in California history. Facts, fiction and romantic tales entangle to create a legend of unique aura that had become part of California's folklore, especially in the Livermore Valley where Joaquin was a frequent visitor.
In the early 1850's Joaquin Murrieta roamed this land. Most famous as an avenging outlaw or a Robin Hood, Joaquin Murrieta and his men were above everything else horsemen, and of the best . . . — Map (db m17944) |
| California (Alameda County), Livermore — Livermore Southern Pacific Depot |
| | This railroad station having been located about half a mile west of the old town of Laddsville, on land owned by Wm. M. Mendenhall. Established the location of the town Livermore. The first depot was a freight car that was soon replaced by a building. In 1891 this building burned, and by August 1892 a combination passenger and freight depot was built.
Dedicated April 13, 1991
by Joaquin Murrieta Chapter 13
E Clampus Vitus — Map (db m19993) |
| California (Alameda County), Livermore — Livermore Town Hall Jail and Firehouse |
| |
[Upper Marker:]
Built 1875, this building was first a hotel then the Livermore Valley Bank. It was the Livermore Town Hall from 1905 to 1957. The jail was in the rear, and to the left the firehouse. It was here a light bulb was lit and continues to burn to this day.
Dedicated by
Joaquin Murrieta Chapter 13
E Clampus Vitus
October 5, 1985
[Lower Marker:]
Old City Hall
and Firehouse
Built 1882
On this site:
Wooden Boarding House, c.1874
Bank of . . . — Map (db m19982) |
| California (Alameda County), Livermore — Tolliver Airship |
| | Eight miles southwest of this location, in the Spring of 1904, Charles Tolliver built an airship.
With an aluminum superstructure covered with 6,000 yards of rongee silk, the craft was to be 250 feet long, 40 feet wide and 44 feet high. Four gasoline powered engines and six propellers - two on each side, one in the front, one rear. There was no need for rudders with this type of construction.
Mrs. Phoebe Hearst was the main financial backer, contributing 72,000 dollars to the project. . . . — Map (db m19968) |
| California (Alameda County), Livermore — 957 — Wente Bros. Winery |
| | Here the first Wente Vineyards of 47 acres was established by C.H. Wente in 1883. In 1935 his sons, Ernest and Herman, introduced California’s first varietal wine label, Sauvignon Blanc. The efforts of the Wente family have helped to establish the Livermore Valley as one of the premier wine-growing areas of California. In their centennial year, Wente Bros. is the oldest continuously operating, family-owned winery in California.
California Registered Historical Landmark No.957
Plaque . . . — Map (db m19985) |
| California (Alameda County), Niles — Completion of the Transcontinental Railroad — Niles, California |
| | “May God continue the unity of our country as this railroad unites the two great oceans of the world.” The gold spike ceremony at Promontory, Utah in May of 1869 united the tracks of the Central Pacific and Union Pacific Railroads. However the trails did not span the United States from ocean to ocean until some months later. In September the final link between San Francisco and Sacramento was completed near the Flour Mill of Jesus Vallejo, a short distance east of this location. — Map (db m24473) |
| California (Alameda County), Pleasanton — J. W. Kottinger’s Barn — Pleasanton Heritage Site - 1852 |
| | John W. Kottinger (1819 – 1892) was Murray Township Justice of the Peace from 1853 to 1870. His home was the Seat of Justice for the township; The northwest corner of this adobe barn was used to jail prisoners. A frequent visitor was Joaquin Murrieta. On one occasion he was distracted by Mrs. Kottinger’s bountiful table, thus allowing Kottinger to make a hasty trip to a San Francisco bank. The bandit was deprived of the pleasure of relieving Kottinger of a large gold deposit. — Map (db m24507) |
| California (Alameda County), Sunol — Niles Canyon Railway |
| | In 1869, the first Transcontinental Railroad passed this spot on its way to the shore of the San Francisco Bay. In 1984 the Southern Pacific Railroad abandoned this historic line between Niles and Tracy, California.
Volunteers of the Pacific Locomotive Association have rebuilt the portion of the line between Sunol and Niles, so that future generations may enjoy a ride over this important link in America’s Railroad heritage.
Dedicated to commemorate the one hundred and
twenty-fifth . . . — Map (db m24489) |
| California (Alameda County), Sunol — Sunol |
| | Named in honor of Antonio Maria Sunol, merchant, naval man and cattlebarron, who acquired a Spanish / Mexican land grant in 1840.
Along with the vast ranching and fertile farmlands, coal and gold were found in the Sunol area in the 1870’s.
Sunol became a typical western cattletown with the arrival of the railroad in 1869, and a favorite hangout for banditos.
It was rumored that when Joaquin Murrieta stayed here his horse stood on a bed of charcoal keeping the hooves warm for a . . . — Map (db m24495) |
| California (Alpine County), Bear Valley — Camp Tamarack |
| | For more than 80 years, the area was known as Onion Valley due to the profusion of wild onions growing here. It was mainly used as a summer stock range. In the late 1860-70’s a sawmill was operated by C. Brown. Later a man called “Turkey” Johnson came every summer with sheep, pigs, chickens and turkeys. Once, during an early snowstorm, the turkeys took to the pines and Johnson could not get them down.
Dave Filipini received the first land patent. Later he sold to Will & Chas. . . . — Map (db m11971) |
| 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 — Kirkwood's |
| | This building has been the pioneer home of the Kirkwood and Taylor families since it was built by Zachary Kirkwood in 1864. This building was one of the first resorts operated in the Sierra Nevada Mountains. — Map (db m10985) |
| California (Alpine County), Kirkwood — Snowshoe Thom(p)son — (John Tostensen) — A True Pioneer |
| | “…there ought to be a shaft raised to Snow-Shoe Thompson: Not of marble; Not carved and not planted in the valley, but a rough shaft of basalt or of granite, massive and tall, with top ending roughly as if broken short, to represent a life which was strong and true to the last. And this should be upreared on the summit of the mountains over which the strong man wandered so many years, as an emblem of that life which was worn out apparently without an object…” Attributed to: Dan . . . — Map (db m12028) |
| California (Alpine County), Markleeville — Alpine Hotel |
| | Originally built in 1862 as the Fiske House in Silver Mountain City. It was dismantled, board by board, in 1886 by A.M. Grover and a crew of men. Each board was marked and many of the old square nails were saved. It was re-erected on this site and named the “Hot Springs Hotel”. In 1900 it was once again renamed, this time as the “Alpine Hotel” which it has carried to this day.
Dedicated September 16, 1972.
Snow-Shoe Thompson Chapter No. 1827
E Clampus Vitus — Map (db m20631) |
| California (Alpine County), Markleeville — Markleeville General Store |
| | On August 2, 1885, fire broke out in the Town of Markleeville destroying several buildings, including Harvey and Rask’s Bucher Shop and Smokehouse. Later on in the Fall, the building was rebuilt and reopened as Rask’s Butcher Shop.
The building today, contains the original section plus additions, made in the 1890’s and 1950’s. The old cooler room, now referred to as the Antiques Room, has 12 inches of sawdust in its 14 inch walls for insulation.
In the early 1900’s it changed into a general . . . — Map (db m11963) |
| California (Alpine County), Markleeville — Old Log Jail |
| | In 1975, the Alpine County seat was moved from Silver Mountain (Kongsberg) to Markleeville. A new jail being needed, a foundation was laid using logs. The iron cells from the old jail were placed thereon and using the mortise and tenon method the rest of the building was completed using logs. So far as is known not another jail was ever built like this one. In 1969 the jail was moved to its present site. Donated to the Historical Society in memory of Orrin P. Brown, Sheriff.
Dedicated on . . . — Map (db m3007) |
| California (Amador County), Drytown — Salute to Early Amador Miners — E Clampus Vitus |
| | This plaque is dedicated on September 10, 1960 by the ancient and honorable society of E Clampus Vitus to honor the memory of the early miners, both placer and quartz, of Amador County on the Mother Lode in California.
It marks the place where in May 1848 some gold miners from Monterey began to mine for gold on the south bank of Dry Creek. That year, and in 1849, Eastman and Thomas and others, including some Mexicans, found the nearby gulches and ravines to be very rich.
In February . . . — Map (db m10851) |
| California (Amador County), Ione — Iron Ivan |
| | Old No. 7 was the last steam locomotive to operate over the Amador Central Railroad between Ione and Martell. The twelve mile long railroad lies entirely within Amador County and is one of the shortest railroads in this country. Iron Ivan is a fine example of one of the early steam locomotives produced by the Baldwin Locomotive Works. This engine was manufactured in January 1901 and was brought to the Amador Central Railroad from the McCloud River Railroad in 1937. The last trip was made by . . . — Map (db m2371) |
| California (Amador County), Ione — Old Red Brick Building Saloon |
| | Later the Scully Building
Dedicated to the spirits within
James W. Marshall Chapter No. 49
E Clampus Vitus
April 24, 1974 — Map (db m2379) |
| California (Amador County), Jackson — The Old Spring |
| | This monument marks the site of a spring that refreshed the early travelers into this region. So many bottles were found around this spring that some Chilean miners called the site "Bottileas" or place of the bottles, the first name by which the area of Jackson was known.
Dedicated by
James W. Marshall Chapter No.49
E Clampus Vitus
May 16, 1964 — Map (db m21371) |
| California (Amador County), Kit Carson — Plasse’s Trading Post |
| | Founded by Raymond Peter Plasse in 1853. It was a stopping place for emmigrants on the Carson Pass Trail on the route to California gold field.
Dedicated by the
James W. Marshall Chapter
Of E. Clampus Vitus
September 15, 1984 — Map (db m21261) |
| California (Amador County), Plymouth — 762 — D'Agostini Winery |
| | D’Agostini Winery was started in 1856 by Adam Uhlinger, a Swiss immigrant. The original wine cellar, with walls made from rock quarried from nearby hills, hand hewn beams, and oak casks, is still in use and part of the present winery. Some original vines are still in production.
California Registered Historical Landmark Number 762
Plaque placed by the California State Park Commission in cooperation with the James W. Marshall Chapter No. 49, E Clampus Vitus. September 16, 1961. — Map (db m8971) |
| California (Amador County), Sutter Creek — C. Soracco Company |
| | Established in 1869 by Carlo Soracco, the store and adjoining residence were copied from similar buildings in Genoa, Italy. Carlo’s son, Frank, one of Amador County’s leading citizens, became proprietor in 1894. C. Soracco Co. was a major supplier to Mother Lode mines. — Map (db m10547) |
| California (Amador County), Volcano — Moose Milk |
| | This plaque is in memory of the pioneers of California who assembled in Volcano where Moose Milk was originated.
Dedicated this 13th day of January, 1951 by E Clampus Vitus.
[A rededication marker, just below the main one, reads]:
Rededicated May 15, 5989
Our Year
Chapter 49
E Clampus Vitus
[The Clamper year 5989 equates to 1984] — Map (db m9055) |
| California (Amador County), Volcano — Soldier Gulch |
| | This plaque is in commemoration of two soldiers of a party from Stevenson’s New York Regiment who discovered Volcano Valley in late 1848 and camped here in Soldier Gulch through a hard winter. Their bodies were discovered in the spring and buried somewhere here by a party of Mexicans.
May these pioneer miners rest in peace. — Map (db m11364) |
| California (Amador County), Volcano — 29 — Volcano |
| | [Larger Marker]:
Started 1848 by soldiers of Colonel Stevenson’s Regiment. Named by miners because of apparent volcanic appearance. Here the first California rental library, 1850, was established. And one of the first “Little Theaters” founded by the “Volcano Thespian Society”, 1854
Interesting Civil War History.
[Smaller Marker]:
Volcano - Right Here!
1934 plaque placed in Pine Grove as "obituary" when planned dam would flood Volcano. . . . — Map (db m11336) |
| California (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), Angels Camp — Archie Stevenot — “Mr. Mother Lode” |
| | He was born Sept. 25, 1882 on the old Stevenot Homestead one-half mile west of this marker. Son of Emile K. and Sarah E. Stevenot and the grandson of Gabriel K. Stevenot, Calaveras County pioneer who pitched tent there in April, 1850.
Student, salesman, miner, rancher, post master, school board member and general superintendent of the nearby Carson Hill Mine, he has spent a productive lifetime in this region. He established the Mother Lode Highway Association in 1919, serving as president or . . . — Map (db m6847) |
| California (Calaveras County), Angels Camp — James H. Carson |
| | James H. Carson (1821 - 1853)
- - Soldier, gold prospector and miner, writer, sportsman. Discovered gold at Carson’s Creek. He inspired a mutual confidence between man and man.
Dedicated by
Matuca Chapter, E.C.V.
This 27th Day of April 1974 — Map (db m7502) |
| California (Calaveras County), Avery — The Avery Hotel |
| | The oldest continuously operated hotel in Calaveras County, it was built as a family home in 1851 by Joseph and Sarah Goodell of Maine. The Goodells later relocated to Stockton. In 1853 Peter and Nancy Avery, also of Maine, began operating it as a hotel. Famous guests have included Alfalfa of “Our Gang” fame and such western legions as Black Bart and Roy Rogers. Owners and guests have reliably reported that the benign spirits of a late 19th century sea captain and a locally revered . . . — Map (db m20626) |
| California (Calaveras County), Copperopolis — Calaveras Telephone |
| | Present site of one of the last family - founded and - still - operated - by - that - family phone companies in America. Founded by Jim Tower, who strung his first telephone wires in 1895 tacked along posts of barb wire fences, earning himself the colorful nickname, “Barbed Wire Jim.” In 1900, Jim was franchised with Alexander Graham Bell to do business with the Bell system. Barb Wire Jim was born in nearby Salt Springs Valley in 1879, having been midwifed by Madame Felix herself. . . . — Map (db m19787) |
| California (Calaveras County), Copperopolis — Copperopolis — The Town of |
| | With the discovery of copper ore in 1860 by Thomas McCarty and William K. Reed, the town of Copperopolis sprang into existence and soon became the largest producer of copper in the western United States. The population of Copperopolis grew to exceed 10,000 by 1863. The Union Mine was the largest producing mine in the area, working three shafts and hundreds of men on the payroll.
During the nations three recent wars, the Civil War, World War I and World War II, much of the copper ore that was . . . — Map (db m13004) |
| California (Calaveras County), Copperopolis — Copperopolis Cemetery |
| | Located atop a prominent hill, this cemetery overlooks the community of Copperopolis and it’s surrounding area.
After crossing through the wrought iron gates and walking amongst the paths you’ll find yourself surrounded by the 4 foot natural stone walls.
Think of the Civil War veterans, Clampers and many members of the founding families buried and honored within. It is due to their diligence and perseverance that we stand here today.
The oldest tombstone is dated 1863.
Dedicated by . . . — Map (db m19759) |
| California (Calaveras County), Copperopolis — The Old Corner Saloon |
| | In the 1860’s Copperopolis had a population of 10,000 and was the principal mine in the west. The mine closed in 1945.
This building has housed a saloon since it was built in 1862. Twice it survived raging fires which destroyed the town.
The bar operated through Prohibition as a “speakeasy” in the basement. The main floor was a soda parlor and had a buzzer set up to warn those below of approaching law enforcement.
The upstairs functioned as a rooming house and a brothel. . . . — Map (db m19770) |
| California (Calaveras County), Dorrington — Dorrington Hotel |
| | Built in 1860 by John and Rebecca Gardner, this was a stage coach stop on the Big Trees Carson Valley Road. A toll road from 1862 – 1910. The hotel served as a depot for stockmen and as a summer resort.
Noted for its ice cold springs, it was called Cold Springs Ranch until a Post Office was established. Rebecca’s maiden name was submitted to the Postal Department and the town has been known as Dorrington since 1902. — Map (db m12027) |
| California (Calaveras County), Douglas Flat — The Italian Store |
| | Built is 1861 by Antonio and Caterina Gagliardo. Served as a Post Office and social center for the community of Douglas Flat. A hand dug well located next to the store supplied Douglas Flat with good fresh water and remains in good shape today. James Malespina purchased the store in 1885 where it remained in the family for several years.
A Wells Fargo office also occupied the building with a safe and armed guard to protect the gold from the Table Mountain and along Coyote Creek. The mines . . . — Map (db m10964) |
| California (Calaveras County), Mokelumne Hill — 663 — Calaveras County Courthouse and Leger Hotel |
| | A portion of this building served as the Calaveras County Courthouse from 1852 to 1866, when the county seat was removed to San Andreas. George W. Leger then acquired the court building and made it a part of his adjoining hotel, which has been operating since early gold mining days. It was known as the Grand Hotel in 1874 when fire damaged it and destroyed its dance hall. Restored in 1879, it has since been known as the Leger Hotel. — Map (db m11537) |
| California (Calaveras County), San Andreas — Attempted Stage Robbery |
| | At this place, April 30th 1892, without warning, a lone bandit fired two charges of buckshot into the stage carrying the payroll for the Sheepranch Mine. Miss Johanna Rodesino, a passenger, was instantly killed. Babe Raggio, driver, was severely wounded. Mike Tovey, messenger, was slightly wounded. Miss Agnes Filipini and Mrs. A. Lloyd, passengers, were unhurt.
No treasure was taken and the bandit was never apprehended. — Map (db m11683) |
| California (Calaveras County), San Andreas — Calaveras County Hospital Cemetery |
| | In this cemetery lie the remains of 600 Calaveras pioneers. All died in the once adjacent county hospital and were interred here between 1890 and the 1910’s. Mostly older men, they lacked the means to be buried in a church or town cemetery. Some were natives of California, while others came to Calaveras from distant places, such as Chile, Mexico, Hawaii, Canada, Nova Scotia, England, Ireland, France, Italy, Spain, Belgium, Austria, Denmark, Norway, Australia, China, and virtually every state on . . . — Map (db m19324) |
| California (Calaveras County), Vallecito — Dinkelspiel Store |
| | The store was built in 1851 and opened for business in 1852 by the Dinkelspiel family, who had recently emigrated from Germany. The buildings were made of rhyolite tuff blocks from the Altaville Quarry. The small adjoining building originally used as a saddle shop. Later became the Wells Fargo Company’s express office. The first Wells Fargo agent in Vallecito was L. Dinkelspiel and Co. It was one of the many express companies which handled mail in the Mother Lode prior to 1854, when the Post Office was established. — Map (db m11967) |
| California (Calaveras County), Valley Springs — Valley Springs |
| | The original three foot narrow gauge line was built by the San Joaquin & Sierra Nevada Railroad, extending from Brack’s Landing on the Mokelumne River, east to Valley Springs. The depot and turntable were built around the time of completion of the last section, which was finished in April 1885, at a total cost of $409,570. The line was changed to standard gauge by Southern Pacific around 1904. It was then extended 13 miles further east to Kentucky House to service the Calaveras Cement Company . . . — Map (db m10635) |
| California (Contra Costa County), Byron — Byron — Est. 1878 |
| | At this location, in 1878, a railroad station was established for the San Pablo and Tulare Railroad, which ran from Los Banos to Martinez, later to become part of the Southern Pacific Railway, for the purpose of taking on water, and became known as the "By Run".
This township was famous for shipping more hay than any other station in California at the turn of the century.
Dedicated to the early pioneers and settlers of this community.
Dedicated September 19, 1987
Joaquin Murrieta Chapter 13
E Clampus Vitus — Map (db m17325) |
| California (Contra Costa County), Clayton — Joaquin Murrieta |
| | Born in Mexico in 1832 the renowned "Robin Hood of the El Dorado" spent his early days in Californa working in Contra Costa County as a vaquero before turning bandit.
Dedicated By
Joaquin Murrieta Chapter No. 13
E Clampus Vitus
November 6, 1976 in Commemoration
of our Bicentennial Year — Map (db m24567) |
| California (Contra Costa County), Clayton — The Clayton Club |
| | Jacob Rhine's National Saloon had an impressive inventory of cigars and liquor in 1874.
The saloon was renamed after Carl Berendsen bought the property in 1905. He added a building shipped from San Francisco via Martinez for family living quarters.
The Clayton Club survived 1920-1933 Prohibition as a cafe and social club, offering non alcoholic drinks, meals, and entertainment. A six-shooter "kept things honest" at the gaming table.
Jennie and Carl Milano bought the Clayton Club in 1959. . . . — Map (db m24490) |
| California (Contra Costa County), Martinez — Birthplace of the Martini |
| | On this site in 1874, Julio Richelieu, bartender, served up the first martini when a miner came into his saloon with a fistful of nuggets and asked for something special. He was served a "Martinez Special." After three or four drinks, however, the
"Z" would get vrey much in the way. The drink consisted of 2/3 gin, 1/3 vermouth, a dash of orange bitters, served over crushed ice and served with an olive.
Humorist James Thurber once said, "One is alright, two is too many, and three is not . . . — Map (db m24417) |
| California (Contra Costa County), Martinez — Borland Home |
| | This Victorian cottage was the home of the Robert Borland Family. Built in 1890 by Dr. John S. Moore, D.D.S., and originally used as his dental office. The property was inherited by his daughter, Mrs. Emma Moore Borland. The Martinez Historical Society, working in cooperation with the City of Martinez and volunteers, saved the building from demolition and is continually refurbishing it as time and funds allow.
The Martinez Museum, opened here June 6, 1976, has changing displays of Martinez . . . — Map (db m16730) |
| 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 (El Dorado County), Coloma — Cabin of James Marshall |
| | This cabin was erected by Marshall and occupied by him from 1856 : 1870. Born in New Jersey October 8, 1810. Came to California in 1845 – Died at Kelsey, this state, August 10, 1885. The discovery of gold by Marshall in the tailrace of John A. Sutter’s Mill at Coloma on January 24, 1848 started the historic migration to California by land and sea. The original sawmill, the building of which Marshall superintended was located 2190 feet north of this cabin on the American River. On an . . . — Map (db m12215) |
| California (El Dorado County), Coloma — Chinese Miners of the Mother Lode |
| | Following the California Gold Rush of ’49, swarms of Chinese miners came to make their mark on the diggings in the Mother Lode, including this Coloma Valley. They were industrious and self-contained and mostly content to thoroughly comb the old diggings. Thus they reclaimed much gold that would have been overlooked. Chinese merchants came to serve their needs, such as Wah Hop who ran the adjoining store.
This plaque dedicated to the memory of the diligent Chinese miners of the gold days. — Map (db m12225) |
| California (El Dorado County), Coloma — James W. Marshall — Discoverer of Gold |
| | “Boys I believe I have found a gold mine” so said James W. Marshall to his millworkers on January 24, 1848, after he discovered gold in the tail race of Captain John A. Sutter’s sawmill at Coloma. This discovery started the great Gold Rush to California which resulted in its admission to the Union as the thirty first state on September 9, 1850. This plaque dedicated in his honor by E Clampus Vitus, January 27, 1957 — Map (db m12224) |
| California (El Dorado County), Coloma — Monroe Family Homestead |
| | The home of the pioneer Monroe family stood here for more than a century. The family matriarch, Nancy Gooch, came across the plains from Missouri as a slave in 1849. She gained her freedom in 1850 when California joined the Union as a “free” state. Later, she bought the freedom of her son, Andrew Monroe and his family, who joined her in Coloma.
Begun as a cabin, the home was enlarged as the family grew. Andrew and his son Pearley raised fruit and other crops. Their 80 acres of . . . — Map (db m17455) |
| California (El Dorado County), Coloma — Sutter Mill Replica |
| | This replica of Sutter’s Mill was based on research from many sources – a drawing by James Marshall, an old photograph of the mill, and the results of several excavations made on the original mill site. The building is 60 feet long, 20 feet wide, and 39 feet high, and 80,000 board feet of lumber were used in construction. The structure is assembled with wooden pegs – no nails were used. As in the original mill, all timbers were adzed by hand. The replica was placed here because the . . . — Map (db m12206) |
| California (El Dorado County), El Dorado — 700 — El Dorado (Mud Springs) |
| | Trading post, emigrant stop, and mining camp of the 1850’s. This became one of the remount stations of the Central Overland Pony Express. Here at the Nevada House on April 13, 1860, pony rider William (Sam) Hamilton changed horses while carrying the first west-bound mail of the Pony Express from St. Joseph, Missouri, to Sacramento, California. — Map (db m11571) |
| California (El Dorado County), El Dorado Hills — 699 — Mormon Tavern — Overland Pony Express Route - California |
| | At this site on the old Clarksville-White Rock Emigrant Road was Mormon Tavern. Constructed in 1849, this popular stage stop was enlarged and operated by Franklin Winchell in 1851. It became a remount station of the Central Overland Pony Express and on April 4, 1860, pony rider Sam (Bill) Hamilton changed horses here on the first eastbound trip. — Map (db m12056) |
| California (El Dorado County), Georgetown — 484 — Georgetown |
| | Founded August 7, 1849 by George Phipps and party. Nicknamed Growlersburg from the heavy nuggets that “growled” in the miners’ pans. Georgetown was the hub of an immensely rich gold area. After the disastrous fire of 1852 the old town was moved from the canyon in lower Main Street to its present site. Unique in early day planning, Main Street was laid out 100 feet wide and side streets 60 feet. Population was 3,000 in 1854 – 56. — Map (db m11370) |
| California (El Dorado County), 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), Latrobe — Latrobe — Est. 1864 |
| | The youngest town acquisition of El Dorado County owes its origin to the Placerville and Sacramento Valley Railroad. They established a station for neighboring Amador County at this crossing of the roads. The town started on the completion of the railroad. It was platted by Chief Engineer F. Bishop. He named the town after B. Latrobe, the civil engineer in charge of building the first railroad in the United States.
Dedicated January 26th 2008 by
E. Clampus Vitus Chapter 49
James W. Marshall — Map (db m19317) |
| California (El Dorado County), Meyers — 708 — Yank’s Station |
| | This was the site of the most eastern remount station of the Central Overland Pony Express in California. Established as a trading post in 1851 by Martin Smith, it became a popular hostelry and stage-stop operated by Ephraim “Yank” Clement on the Placerville-Carson Road. Pony Rider Warren Upson first arrived here on the evening of April 28, 1860. Changing ponies he galloped on to Friday’s in Nevada to deliver his mochila to Bob Haslam for the ride to Genoa. Used as a pony remount . . . — Map (db m433) |
| California (El Dorado County), Placerville — 475 — Placerville — Originally Known as “Hangtown” — Incorporated May 13, 1854 |
| | Established on banks of “Hangtown” Creek as rich mining camp in spring of 1848. Millions in gold were taken from its ravines and hills. Supply center for surrounding mining camps and transportation terminus for famous Comstock Lode. John M. Studebaker, Mark Hopkins, Leland Stanford, Phillip Armour, and Edwin Markham were among well-known men who contributed to Placerville’s early history. Also, “Snowshoe” John A. Thompson who carried from 60 to 80 pounds of mail on skies . . . — Map (db m12732) |
| California (El Dorado County), Placerville — 701 — Placerville Pony Express — Station and Terminus |
| | Gold Rush town and Western Terminus of the Placerville –Carson Road to the Comstock. Placerville was a relay station of the Central Overland Pony Express, April 4, 1860 – June 30, 1861. Here on April 4, 1860 the first east-bound pony rider, William (Sam) Hamilton changed horses, added one express letter to his machila, and sped away for Sportsman’s Hall. On July 1, 1861, Placerville became the Western Terminus of the Pony Express, until its discontinuous on October 26, 1861. — Map (db m12743) |
| California (El Dorado County), Placerville — Swift Berry — “Mr. Clamper” |
| | Born Nebraska 1887, Educated Biltmore Forest School, North Carolina, Began career 1908 in California with U.S.F.S.
Major U.S. Army A.E.F. 1917 – 1919
General Manager
Michigan California Lumber Co. 1925 – 1949
California State Senator 1952 – 1960
We salute our esteemed Clampatriarch and Clamproctor,
Historian, Forester, Banker and Tireless Civic Leader
A “MAN TO MATCH OUR MOUNTAINS.” — Map (db m15531) |
| California (El Dorado County), Placerville — Three Unfortunates Hanged |
| | “Somewhere here lie the remains of the three unfortunates hanged in late 1849 from the oak tree in the feed corral after fair trial by the vigilantes. This incident changed the name of Dry Diggins to Hangtown.
Let us not judge them too harshly for those were the rough days of the great Gold Rush” — Map (db m13267) |
| 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 (Fresno County), Squaw Valley — Millwood |
| | Two miles northwest of here astride Mill Flat Creek is the site of old Millwood. A sawmill town established in 1891. Railroads brought logs here for milling and later lumber from other nearby mills including that which cut the privately owned redwoods in Converse Basin.
The lumber was dried and placed in a fifty four mile wooden flume terminating in Sanger, Sequoia Lake was formed to provide flume water. The operation continued until 1910 when it was moved to Hume.
Millwood once had . . . — Map (db m2979) |
| California (Humboldt County), Eureka — 154 — Fort Humboldt |
| | By the early 1850's, newly arrived white settlers had moved into the Humboldt Bay area, causing conflict with the native inhabitants. To protect both Indians and settlers, Fort Humboldt was established in 1853 and operated until 1866. It became a focal point in the violent struggle between two cultures. Many Native Americans were assembled here before removal to reservations.
California Registered Historical Landmark No. 154
Plaque placed by the State Department of Parks and . . . — Map (db m19936) |
| California (Humboldt County), Orick — Big Diamond — A Circus Elephant |
| |
"Big Diamond", a circus elephant expired near here in 1927. His skinned hulk was buried. Years later, his bones were unearthed and speculation arose about a
Humboldt mastodon until investigators were enlightened
by people who'd seen the pachyderm's ignominious end. — Map (db m22274) |
| 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), 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 (Inyo County), Aspendell — Power for the Diggins |
| | With the discovery of gold and silver in Nevada at Goldfield and Tonopah, the need for electric power for mining operations was fulfilled in September, 1905, by construction of a hydro-electric plant on Bishop Creek, which supplied 1,300 kilowatts of energy over a 113 mile long transmission line.
The Nevada Power, Mining & Milling Co. which built the project later became the Nevada-California Power Co., and four additional plants were built using the water from North, Sabrina, and South . . . — Map (db m629) |
| California (Inyo County), Bishop — Owensville |
| | The first white man’s settlement in northern Owens Valley was built here in 1861 and two years later prospectors named it Owensville. It thrived for some time but in 1864, as mining in the White Mts. petered out the miners moved on to better diggings, leaving the town deserted.
Dedicated June 11, 1977
Slim Princess Chapter
E Clampus Vitus — Map (db m2953) |
| California (Inyo County), Bishop — Pine Creek Mine |
| | West of this spot, gold was discovered in the Pine Creek drainage by Civil War veterans. It was not until April, 1916, when tungsten was discovered by four men: O.E. Vaughn, A.E. & C.C. Beauregard, and James Sproul on their claims, Blizzard 1, 2, 3 and 4, high on the mountain. Years of development and production went by and the mine was acquired by U.S. Vanadium, a division of Union Carbide Corp., on May 14, 1936. After more development, this mine became the world’s largest tungsten mine and is . . . — Map (db m2952) |
| California (Inyo County), Bishop — 208 — San Francis Ranch |
| | In 1861, Samuel A. Bishop, his wife and party left Fort Tejon for the Owens Valley driving 650 head of stock. On August 22, Bishop reached a creek later named for him and southwest of this spot, established San Francis Ranch. There a peace treaty was signed by the settlers and the chiefs of the Paiute Indians.
Dedicated June 22, 1985
Slim Princess Chapter 395
E Clampus Vitus
California Registered Historical Landmark No. 208
— Map (db m627) |
| California (Inyo County), Death Valley Junction — Death Valley Junction |
| | This historic crossroad has been used by Indians, Clampers, Death Valley 49ers, ranchers, farmers, settlers and tourists. The town was originally called Amargosa. In 1907, the name was changed to Death Valley Junction. At this junction, the Tonopah & Tidewater Railroad connected with the Las Vegas-Tonopah Railroad to service the Ryan and Lila C. borax mines near Ryan during the years 1914-28. Death Valley Junction had rail service until 1940. At it's peak, the town had a population of 300. . . . — Map (db m13673) |
| California (Inyo County), Independence — 349 — Camp Independence |
| | At the request of settlers, Colonel George Evans led a military expedition to this site on July 4, 1862. Hence its name “Independence”. Indian hostilities ceased and the camp closed. War again broke out in 1865 and the camp was reoccupied as Fort Independence until its abandonment in 1877. This fort made possible the early settlements in the Owens Valley.
California Registered Historical Landmark No. 349
Dedicated June 13, 1981
Slim Princess Chapter No. 395
E Clampus Vitus — Map (db m2954) |
| California (Kern County), Tehachapi — The Great Flood of 1932 and Engine No. 3834 |
| | On September 30th torrential rains flooded Tehachapi Creek, undermining the tracks under Santa Fe Engine No. 3834 which was waiting out the storm about ½ mile east of Woodward Station. The engine disappeared into the raging water below. It remained “lost” for two weeks, hidden under 10 feet of mud. It took one month to free the severely damaged engine. Its bell was never found. Almost three years after the flood the newly refurbished engine was returned to service with people . . . — Map (db m11912) |
| California (Lake County), Lower Lake — 429 — Lower Lake Stone Jail |
| | Built in 1876 at the height of the quicksilver mining boom, the Lower Lake stone jail was a response to rapid town growth and the urgent need for civil order. Stephen Nicolai, one of the first stone masons in Lower Lake, built the jail from local materials along with the help of Theodore and John Copsey. The jail is one of the smallest in the United States.
California Registered Landmark No. 429
Plaque placed by the State Department of Parks and Recreation in cooperation with the ancient . . . — Map (db m8509) |
| California (Los Angeles County), Newhall — 168 — Oak of the Golden Dream |
| | Francisco Lopez made California’s first authenticated gold discovery on March 9, 1842. While gathering wild onions near an oak tree in Placerita Canyon he found gold particles clinging to the roots of the bulbs. The San Fernando placers and nearby San Feliciano Canyon were worked by Sonoran miners using panning, sluicing and dry washing methods. Lopez’s find predated James Marshall’s strike at Sutter’s Mill by six years.
California Registered Historical Landmark No.168
First registered . . . — Map (db m20109) |
| California (Madera County), Raymond — The Charles Miller House — Est. 1886 |
| | The first house in Raymond was home to Charles Miller. He was the first railroad station master and stagecoach agent. He filed the homestead for Raymond and is a
substantial part of Yosemite history.
California Point of Historical Interest restored by Lynn and Wayne Northrop and dedicated as Raymond Museum in 2008. Dedicated by E Clampus Vitus, Grub Gulch
Chapter 41-49 Feb 15th 2009 — Map (db m20545) |
| California (Mariposa County), Bear Valley — 5999 — Fremont’s Fort |
| | General John C. Fremont, 1813-1890. A noted military man, explorer, topographer, senator & businessman, Fremont was also a miner. He settled in Mariposa County living just outside Bear Valley. He operated the Josephine, Pine Tree & Princeton mines and other claims. In 1858 he returned from his travels to operate his mines and found many had been “jumped.” In taking them back a feud developed with several groups, one being the “Hornitas League” which tried to seize one . . . — Map (db m5783) |
| 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 (Modoc County), Fandango Pass — 546 — The Applegate-Lassen Trail |
| | This spot marks the convergence of two pioneer trails widely used by emigrants during the years 1846-1850. The Applegate Trail, established in 1846, led from the Humbolt River in Nevada to the Willamette Valley in Oregon. The Lassen Cut-Off, established by Peter Lassen in 1848, turned south at Goose Lake to the Northern Mines and settlements of California. — Map (db m10174) |
| 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), Bodie — Bodey’s Grave |
| | This marker placed in memory of William S. Bodey, discoverer of the Bodie mines, who lies buried on this hillside.
“Let him repose in peace among these everlasting hills”
Erected by Snowshoe Thompson Chapter ECV October 5, 1957 — Map (db m8549) |
| California (Mono County), Bodie — Return to Bodie |
| | During the California gold rush, E Clampus Vitus was a fraternal order and benevolence society for miners. It was rumored to be one of the secret societies in the town of Bodie during its heyday.
Today, ECV is dedicated to the preservation of California history and accordingly, members of the present day Bodie chapter were instrumental in preserving the town as a historical landmark. With their help in 1956, legislation was drafted to add Bodie to the state park system. By 1962 the process . . . — Map (db m8493) |
| California (Mono County), Bridgeport — Bridgeport Elementary School |
| | Built in 1880, this historic building was used until October, 1964. Plans for a new school building called for the destruction of this one. It was saved by the Mono County Historical Society, the citizens of Bridgeport and Mono County. Through the support of Mono County Supervisors, the building was purchased and moved to this location to serve as the first county museum. This is a proud old building and when first set in place on its new foundation, its doors and windows would not open or . . . — Map (db m10324) |
| California (Mono County), Bridgeport — First Bridgeport Courthouse |
| | Located near this site was the first courthouse in the town of Bridgeport. Previously, the county courthouse was in Aurora (the county seat established in 1861) However, a state boundary survey completed in 1863 determined that town was actually in Nevada.
With the relocation of the county seat to Bridgeport in 1864, a new courthouse was needed. A survey of the town revealed only one suitable building – the American Hotel (owned by J. C. Kingsley). Subsequently the hotel was . . . — Map (db m8545) |
| California (Mono County), Bridgeport — Mono County Court House |
| | Since April 1, 1881 with the trial of Morton, indicted for theft of gold bullion from the Standard Co. of Bodie, the scales of justice in this building have continuously weighed the problems of Mono County from infancy to this present day. This impressive building remains a classic example of the artisans of yesterday. — Map (db m10322) |
| California (Mono County), Bridgeport — Mountain Warfare Training Center — U.S. Marine Corp |
| | Was established in 1951, in cooperation with the U.S. Forest Service. One of the Corps most remote and isolated posts. The mission was providing cold weather training for Korea bound replacement personnel. The name changed to “Marine Corp Cold Weather Training Center” after the Korean conflict. In 1963, because of its expanded role, the center was re-named “Marine Corp Mountain Warfare Training Center,” operating on a full-time basis until 1967 when it was placed on . . . — Map (db m11919) |
| California (Mono County), Bridgeport — Old County Jail |
| | Since the formation of Mono County in 1861, six facilities have served as the county jail. This stone building was placed into service by Sheriff C.F. McKinney, Dec. 5, 1883, and became the 5th Mono County Jail. It replaced the wooden jail facility partially destroyed, December 16, 1882, during an escape attempt by prisoners. This replacement jailhouse, larger than its predecessor, contained – an office, dining area, 6 cells, 2 wash and storage rooms. The walls were two feet thick and . . . — Map (db m10364) |
| California (Mono County), Bridgeport — Poor Farm |
| | It began as the county hospital in Bodie in 1879. With the decline of Bodie in the mid 1880’s, the hospital was moved eventually to a site east of this monument and Highway 395 to the rear of the small meadow that you see. At that time it became known as the “Poor Farm”, a refuge for the aged, ill, and penniless. It continued to operate for several years, but the high cost of maintaining the facility forced its closure and the building and property were put up for bid and sold to a local rancher. — Map (db m11347) |
| California (Mono County), Coleville — Coleville |
| | Founded in 1860 by A. Horteshorne, Coleville played a major roll in the development of Mono County. It was once known as Centerville, Double Town (due to the high prices charged for supplies) and Amonia. It was finally named as Coleville after Senator Cornielus Cole. Coleville was one of the very important stage and freighter supply centers coming to Bodie and Mono County area from the booming towns of the Comstock Lode Country. — Map (db m11342) |
| California (Mono County), Lee Vining — Navy Beach |
| | During the Cold War, Mono County was home to one of many remote facilities used by the US Military to test new weapons and weapons systems. A "secret military installation" operated by the US Navy was located along the south shoreline of Mono Lake.
During the 1950's and 1960's several branches of the US Armed Forces utilized this test facility to conduct various research. Numerous top-secret exercises were actually performed here during what was called "seismic testing." However with the . . . — Map (db m20739) |
| California (Mono County), Lee Vining — Sheriff James P. Dolan |
| | In July of 1915, the peace and quiet of Mono County was shattered when Sheriff James P. Dolan died as a result of gunshot wounds received while attempting to apprehend two outlaws who had terrorized ranchers a short distance from this location.
Outraged by the shooting of Sheriff Dolan, the citizens of Mono County quickly formed a Sheriff’s posse which tracked the outlaws to a location near the Mono Craters. Justice was served when both outlaws were killed in a shootout with possemen. A . . . — Map (db m11416) |
| California (Mono County), Lee Vining — Upside-Down House |
| | A distinctive local landmark and nationally renowned tourist attraction. It was the creation of - Nellie Bly O’Bryan (1893–1984), visionary, entrepreneur and long time resident of the Mono Basin.
Originally, located along US-395 north of the Tioga Lodge, it was inspired by two children’s stories—“Upside Down Land” and “The Upsidedownians.” Upon her death in 1984 The Upside-Down House fell into disrepair until....October 9, 2000 when it was rescued and . . . — Map (db m10167) |
| 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 (Mono County), Mammoth Lakes — Convict Lake |
| | Convict Lake and Creek are so named as the result of an encounter here September 17, 1871, between Robert Morrison, Benton Merchant and member of a posse of citizens, and three convicts who had escaped from the Carson City, Nevada, State Penitentiary. Morrison encountered the convicts on present Convict Creek, then known as Monte Diablo Creek. Morrison was killed and the convicts escaped. Other members of the posse captured the fugitives in Round Valley. They were taken to Bishop where two of . . . — Map (db m19879) |
| California (Mono County), Mammoth Lakes — Legend of Deadman |
| | In 1861 the burned and headless body of Robert Hume, a prospector, was found in a shallow grave not far from this site. Later, the head was located in a nearby stream (now known as Deadman Creek). Hume was last seen alive with his partner, Farnsworth, searching for the fabled Lost Cement Mine. When next seen, Farnsworth was asked about his partner, to which he told a story of a surprise indian attack and barely escaping with his life. A subsequent investigation proved this to be untrue. . . . — Map (db m615) |
| California (Mono County), Mammoth Lakes — Lost Cement Mine |
| | Somewhere near this spot is located the famous Lost Cement Mine. First discovered in 1857, the find was described as a ledge, "wide as a curb stone" of rusty, reddish cement, two thirds of it pure gold. Various circumstances prevented the original discoverers from returning to claim their wealth. History indicates the location of the Lost Cement Mine may have been rediscovered and mined periodically until 1877 and then again concealed. An occasional prospector still searches for the elusive . . . — Map (db m759) |
| California (Mono County), Mammoth Lakes — McGee Mountain Rope Tow #34 |
| | The first permanent rope tow in the Eastern Sierra was built west of this site on the east slope of McGee Mountain. This predecessor of Mammoth Mountain ski area was constructed here in 1938 because of its dependable snow and nearness to a highway. Prior to this facility most down hill skiing was done by use of a portable rope tow system (a working gasoline engine, rope, and pullies.) Dave McCoy—world class skier, entrepreneur, and visionary, was instrumental in organizing and promoting . . . — Map (db m2951) |
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