Murphys in Calaveras County, California — The American West (Pacific Coastal)
John Murphy
1824 – 1892
Photographed By Syd Whittle, July 5, 2010
1. John Murphy Marker
Founder of Murphys, 1848.
John and brother Daniel set up trading post; hired Miwok Indians to mine gravel – paid them in merchandise
Murphys was first known as Murphys Diggings; then Murphys Camp – later Murphys
John Murphy left camp in Dec. 1849 with $1,500,000 in gold. Returned to San Jose. Married Virginia Reed of Donner Party.
Served as Mayor of San Jose and Sheriff of Santa Clara
Erected by E Clampus Vitus.
Topics and series. This historical marker is listed in these topic lists: Industry & Commerce • Native Americans. In addition, it is included in the E Clampus Vitus series list. A significant historical month for this entry is December 1849.
Location. 38° 8.265′ N, 120° 27.924′ W. Marker is in Murphys, California, in Calaveras County. Marker can be reached from Main Street. Marker is located on the E Clampus Vitus Wall of Comparative Ovations at the Murphys Old Timers Museum. Touch for map. Marker is at or near this postal address: 470 Main Street, Murphys CA 95247, United States of America. Touch for directions.
Other nearby markers. At least 8 other markers are within walking distance of this marker. Maj. James D. Savage (here, next to this marker); E Clampus Vitus (here, next to this marker); William Gordon Huff (here, next to this marker); a different marker also named E Clampus Vitus
this page online
Regarding John Murphy. The ECV Wall of Comparative Ovations exhibits multiple plaques dedicated to Clamperdom over many years. William Gordon Huff created all of the plaques which commemorate important figures in Western History.
Related markers. Click here for a list of markers that are related to this marker. Markers commemorating sites of Murphy homes in California.
Photographed By Syd Whittle, July 5, 2010
2. John Murphy Marker and Portrait Tile
Photographed By Syd Whittle, July 5, 2010
3. Portrait Tile
Credits. This page was last revised on November 3, 2019. It was originally submitted on August 12, 2010, by Syd Whittle of Mesa, Arizona. This page has been viewed 1,219 times since then and 65 times this year. Photos: 1, 2, 3. submitted on August 12, 2010, by Syd Whittle of Mesa, Arizona.
