Columbia in Tuolumne County, California — The American West (Pacific Coastal)
Wilson/McConnell House
Photographed By Barry Swackhamer, March 2, 2012
1. Wilson/McConnell House Marker
Inscription.
Wilson/McConnell House. . James Wilson, a Norwegian immigrant shoemaker, purchased the property and brick building to the right in 1869. The brick building housed his shop; living quarters were in the rear. Wilson died in 1876, leaving his widow, Rose, and 8 children. This home had been planned and she saw to its completion in 1878. Dr. and Mrs. James McConnell purchased the properties in 1941, restored the home, moving in to it in 1943. Geraldine McConnell, widowed in 1961, continued to reside here. The home was the governor’s mansion for a day in 1945 when Columbia was designated a state historic monument; also, it was featured in the movie “High Noon.” It is noteworthy that 2 widows, Rose, in the 19th century, and Geraldine, in the 20th century, have been responsible for the building, restoration and preservation of this landmark.
James Wilson, a Norwegian immigrant shoemaker, purchased the property and brick building to the right in 1869. The brick building housed his shop; living quarters were in the rear. Wilson died in 1876, leaving his widow, Rose, and 8 children. This home had been planned and she saw to its completion in 1878. Dr. and Mrs. James McConnell purchased the properties in 1941, restored the home, moving in to it in 1943. Geraldine McConnell, widowed in 1961, continued to reside here. The home was the governor’s mansion for a day in 1945 when Columbia was designated a state historic monument; also, it was featured in the movie “High Noon.” It is noteworthy that 2 widows, Rose, in the 19th century, and Geraldine, in the 20th century, have been responsible for the building, restoration and preservation of this landmark.
Erected 1992 by Native Daughters of the Golden West, Golden Era Parlor No. 90.
Topics and series. This historical marker is listed in this topic list: Notable Buildings. In addition, it is included in the Native Sons/Daughters of the Golden West series list. A significant historical year for this entry is 1869.
Location. 38° 2.115′ N, 120° 24.043′ W. Marker is in Columbia, California, in Tuolumne County. Marker can be reached from Main
Click or scan to see this page online
Street, on the left when traveling south. This marker is located in Columbia State Historic Park between Jackson and State Streets. Touch for map. Marker is in this post office area: Columbia CA 95310, United States of America. Touch for directions.
4. The brick building to the right of the Wilson/McConnell House
Photographed By Denise Boose, May 29, 2016
5. The brick building to the right of the Wilson/McConnell House
Credits. This page was last revised on April 17, 2017. It was originally submitted on March 8, 2012, by Barry Swackhamer of Brentwood, California. This page has been viewed 711 times since then and 16 times this year. Photos:1, 2, 3. submitted on March 8, 2012, by Barry Swackhamer of Brentwood, California. 4, 5. submitted on April 16, 2017, by Denise Boose of Tehachapi, California. • Syd Whittle was the editor who published this page.