Grass Valley in Nevada County, California — The American West (Pacific Coastal)
N. C. N. G. R. R.
(Nevada County Narrow Gauge Railroad)
Photographed By Syd Whittle, November 13, 2011
1. N. C. N. G. R. R. Marker
Nevada County Narrow Gauge Railroad ran from here 5 miles N. to Nevada City and 17 miles S. to Colfax. Built 1874-76 by John F. Kidder whose home is N.E. corner. Depot and shops were 50 yards N. Rails removed 1942. Sarah, widow of builder was first woman R.R. president.
Erected 1977 by Wm. Bull Meek – Wm. Morris Stewart No. 10, E Clampus Vitus, Nevada City.
Topics and series. This historical marker is listed in this topic list: Railroads & Streetcars. In addition, it is included in the E Clampus Vitus series list. A significant historical year for this entry is 1942.
Location. 39° 13.016′ N, 121° 3.41′ W. Marker is in Grass Valley, California, in Nevada County. Marker is at the intersection of Bennett Street and Kidder Street, on the left when traveling east on Bennett Street. Marker is located on the northeast corner. Touch for map. Marker is at or near this postal address: 300 Bennett Street, Grass Valley CA 95945, United States of America. Touch for directions.
Other nearby markers. At least 8 other markers are within walking distance of this marker. Columbiad Cannon – 1850 (about 600 feet away, measured in a direct line); Chinatown, Grass Valley (approx. 0.2 miles away); The Old Post Office (approx. 0.3 miles away); Washington Brewery (approx. 0.3 miles away); Three Stamp Mill from the Red Ledge Mine
this page online
Related markers. Click here for a list of markers that are related to this marker. Click on “Click to map all markers shown on this page” to view marker placements from Nevada City to Colfax.
Also see . . .
1. Nevada County Narrow Gauge Railroad. Satellite views of the depot site showing building and route layouts. (Submitted on November 13, 2011.)
2. History of the Nevada County Narrow Gauge Railroad. Nevada County website entry:
The company’s first President was John C. Coleman, president of the North Star Mine. Kidder, the builder, decided to settle down in Grass Valley, becoming the General Superintendent, and in 1884, became the second president. Upon his death in 1901, Kidder’s widow, Sarah, took over, becoming the first female railroad president in the world. (Submitted on November 13, 2011.)
Photographed By Syd Whittle, November 13, 2011
2. N. C. N. G. R. R. Marker
Photographed By Syd Whittle, November 13, 2011
3. N. C. N. G. R. R. Marker
Marker can be seen in the center of the photo above the retaining wall.
Photographed By Syd Whittle, November 13, 2011
4. N. C. N. G. R. R. Ticket Office
This is now a private residence. Please respect their privacy.
Photographed By Syd Whittle, November 13, 2011
5. N. C. N. G. R. R. Placard
Placed on the chimney of the former ticket office is a plaque with the logo of the NCNGRR.
Photographed By Syd Whittle, November 13, 2011
6. N. C. N. G. R. R. Passenger Entrance
Click on photo to enlarge.
One block northwest at the corner of Bennett and Bank Streets. Signage in the rock retaining wall reads "N.C.N.G.R.R. Passenger Entrance". Entrance to the walkway leading to the boarding area may still be seen.
One block northwest at the corner of Bennett and Bank Streets. Signage in the rock retaining wall reads "N.C.N.G.R.R. Passenger Entrance". Entrance to the walkway leading to the boarding area may still be seen.
Photographed By Syd Whittle, November 13, 2011
7. Site of Depot Complex
Area where railroad shops, yard and offices were located. Fire destroyed the last of the buildings in 1940.
1895
8. Kidder Mansion
The home of John and Sarah was located a short distance up Kidder Street from the marker. The mansion was built in 1883, was three stories, and had 28 rooms. It was considered the social center of Grass Valley.
Credits. This page was last revised on February 14, 2024. It was originally submitted on November 13, 2011, by Syd Whittle of Mesa, Arizona. This page has been viewed 988 times since then and 32 times this year. Photos: 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8. submitted on November 14, 2011, by Syd Whittle of Mesa, Arizona.
