Coloma in El Dorado County, California — The American West (Pacific Coastal)

El Dorado Bath House and Shaving Saloon

Photographed By Joseph Alvarado, January 21, 2023

1. El Dorado Bath House and Shaving Saloon Marker

Inscription. In the 1850’s a black man, Joseph Smallwood, operated a barbershop that straddled the creek at this location. Typical of many barbershops of this period, Smallwood’s establishment also provided hot baths for his customers. The water was carried through a trough or pipe into the building and heated. The water was then poured over the bather, the used water was returned to the creek.

Marshall Gold Discovery State Historic Park

Erected by California Department of Parks & Recreation.

Topics. This historical marker is listed in these topic lists: African Americans • Industry & Commerce.

Location. 38° 47.957′ N, 120° 53.377′ W. Marker is in Coloma, California, in El Dorado County. Marker is on Coloma Road (California Route 49 at milepost 2) south of Brewery Street, on the right when traveling south. The resin marker is mounted to a metal stand next to the creek. Touch for map. Marker is in this post office area: Coloma CA 95613, United States of America. Touch for directions.

Other nearby markers. At least 8 other markers are within walking distance of this marker. Papini House (here, next to this marker); Odd Fellows Hall (a few steps from this marker); County Courthouse (a few steps from this marker); Kane House (within shouting distance of this marker); Robert Bell's Store

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(within shouting distance of this marker); Coloma (within shouting distance of this marker); Site of Virginia Saloon (within shouting distance of this marker); Coloma Schoolhouse (within shouting distance of this marker). Touch for a list and map of all markers in Coloma.

Related marker. Click here for another marker that is related to this marker. A previous marker on the same subject.

El Dorado Bath House and Shaving Saloon Marker & Creek image. Click for full size.

Photographed By Joseph Alvarado, January 21, 2023

2. El Dorado Bath House and Shaving Saloon Marker & Creek

Credits. This page was last revised on February 1, 2023. It was originally submitted on February 1, 2023, by Joseph Alvarado of Livermore, California. This page has been viewed 74 times since then and 10 times this year. Photos: 1, 2. submitted on February 1, 2023, by Joseph Alvarado of Livermore, California.