Jamestown in Tuolumne County, California — The American West (Pacific Coastal)
The Willow
Est. and in continuous operation since 1862. The Willow Hotel was named for the trees that were growing here long before the Gold Rush started. In its heyday The Willow hosted President McKinley, Mrs. Robert E. Lee and Bat Masterson among many others.
Plagued by fires much of the original building was destroyed in 1982. However, the original redwood bar has survived intact. Internationally famous for its ghosts The Willow enriches local history and preserves a reputation for good food and drink.
Erected 2000 by Matuca Chapter 1849, E Clampus Vitus.
Topics and series. This historical marker is listed in these topic lists: Industry & Commerce • Notable Buildings. In addition, it is included in the E Clampus Vitus, and the Former U.S. Presidents: #25 William McKinley series lists. A significant historical year for this entry is 1862.
Location. 37° 57.255′ N, 120° 25.355′ W. Marker is in Jamestown, California, in Tuolumne County. It is at the intersection of Main Street and Willow Street, on the right when traveling north on Main Street. Building is located at the intersection and the marker is mounted on the side of the building facing Main Street. Touch for map. Marker is at or near this postal address: 18723 Main Street, Jamestown CA 95327, United States of America. Touch for directions.
Regionally, this marker is in California’s Sierra Nevada. It is also in the American Mountain West. Globally, it is in North America, on the Ring of Fire, in the Pacific Rim, in the Western Hemisphere, in the Western World, and in the Anglosphere. Historically, it finds itself in what was once New Spain and also Mexicos Alta California.
Other nearby markers. At least 8 other markers are within walking distance of this marker: Community Hall/Jamestown Justice Court (within shouting distance of this marker); 75 Pound Nugget (within shouting distance of this marker); Red Light District (within shouting distance of this marker); Jamestown Branch Jail (about 300 feet away, measured in a direct line); Rocca Park (about 300 feet away); Jamestown (about 400 feet away); Jamestown Museum (about 400 feet away); Ramirez Preston Building (about 500 feet away). Touch for a list and map of all markers in Jamestown.
Regarding The Willow. The new structure is a one-story wood frame building which is all that remains of the original two-story gabled-roof hotel and restaurant that burned in 1978. A new false front has been added to the north and west facing street fronts to give a feel for the former height of the original building. Built in 1896 by early pioneer John Pereira, it has operated continuously as a bar and restaurant.
Credits. This page was last revised on June 1, 2026. It was originally submitted on July 29, 2010, by Syd Whittle of Mesa, Arizona. This page has been viewed 1,473 times since then and 55 times this year. Last updated on May 29, 2026, by Liam Williams of Irvine, California. Photos: 1, 2, 3, 4. submitted on July 29, 2010, by Syd Whittle of Mesa, Arizona. • Devry Becker Jones was the editor who published this page.



