Landmark #274 | Calaveras County | Visited: June 27, 2015 | Plaque? YES! 🙂 |
What is it? | A plaque marking the discovery site of California’s largest gold nugget! |
What makes it historical? | THE GUIDE SAYS: Gold was discovered in the creek just below here in 1848 by James H. Carson, whose name was given to the creek, hill, and town. In November 1854 the largest gold nugget in California, weighing 195 pounds troy, was found. It was worth $43,000 at that time.
OTHER TIDBITS: Lieutenant Carson was one of the “first responders” to news that gold had been discovered at Sutter’s Mill, being stationed in San Francisco! A local Native American fellow pointed out some placers where he could find gold, and though he did find some, it wasn’t until 1850 that the quartz gold vein, was discovered, and thousands flocked to reap the rewards of the earth! Many mines dug deep into Carson Hill, and the dirty dealings that went on here led to many a lawsuit and ownership change! |
How can I Help the Helpers? | HERE’S HOW:
|
Where is this place? | LISTED DIRECTIONS: On State Hwy 4 (P.M. 3.3) 3.7 mi S of Angels Camp on Hwy 49 ANNOTATIONS: From Los Angeles: ~336mi (541km) — 5.6hrs |
When should I go? | Whenever the mood strikes you! |