Near Chinese Camp in Tuolumne County, California — The American West (Pacific Coastal)
Montezuma
Photographed By Syd Whittle, August 23, 2006
1. Montezuma Marker
First record of Montezuma was June 1850 when partners Solomon Miller and Peter K. Aurand, proprietors of the 'Montezuma Tent,' were attacked and Aurand killed by a group of Mexicans during the foreign miners tax excitement of that period. Due to the lack of water, little mining occurred here until 1852 when a ditch and flume were completed bringing water for placer mining. Two types of mining were carried on, placer operations on the flats and tunnels extending under Table Mountain. The gravel produced 3-1/2 C. per pan in the mid 50s. The yield was from $5 to $10 per day. One placer nugget found in 1853 weighed 18 lbs. 8 oz. By late 1852 the population was about 800. At its zenith Montezuma City had four saloons, two hotels, Adams Express Co., post office, church, some homes, and many tents and cabins. The town was nearly destroyed by an incendiary fire which started in Clarks Hotel on June 29, 1866.Erected 1986 by Matuca Chapter No. 1849, E. Clampus Vitus, April 12, 1986.
Topics and series. This historical marker is listed in these topic lists: Industry & Commerce
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Location. 37° 54.553′ N, 120° 27.139′ W. Marker is near Chinese Camp, California, in Tuolumne County. Marker is on State Highway 49, on the right when traveling north. Touch for map. Marker is in this post office area: Chinese Camp CA 95309, United States of America. Touch for directions.
Other nearby markers. At least 8 other markers are within 4 miles of this marker, measured as the crow flies. Woods Crossing (approx. 2.4 miles away); Chinese Camp (approx. 2.9 miles away); To Honor Eddie Webb (approx. 2.9 miles away); St. James Church (approx. 3.3 miles away); Mark Twain Bret Harte Trail (approx. 3.3 miles away); The Emporium – 1897 (approx. 3.4 miles away); National Hotel (approx. 3.4 miles away); Ramirez – Preston Building (approx. 3.4 miles away). Touch for a list and map of all markers in Chinese Camp.
Also see . . . Peter K. Aurand. Descendent's article
Photographed By Syd Whittle, August 23, 2006
2. Montezuma Marker
Additional keywords. Gold Rush
Credits. This page was last revised on June 16, 2016. It was originally submitted on October 25, 2008, by Syd Whittle of Mesa, Arizona. This page has been viewed 1,356 times since then and 102 times this year. Photos: 1, 2. submitted on October 25, 2008, by Syd Whittle of Mesa, Arizona.
