Where the California Gold Rush Began This is where it all began. It was here, on January 24, 1848, that James W. Marshall discovered gold on the South Fork of the American River in the valley the Nisenan Indians knew as Cullumah (beautiful valley), touching off the largest gold rush in history. This singular event not only changed the fate of California but the entire nation. The population of California and what would become El Dorado County exploded with miners hoping to strike it rich.
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oday, Marshall Gold Discovery State Historic Park is home to the gold discovery site, located in the still visible tailrace of Sutter’s sawmill in present day Coloma, is one of the most significant historic sites in the nation. See a replica of the original sawmill and over 20 historic buildings including a mining exhibit, Chinese store exhibits and schoolhouse exhibit. The park offers beginning panning lessons, Gold Discovery Tours, operating blacksmith shop, Gold Discovery museum, visitors center and mercantile. Visitors have the opportunity to pan for gold in the American River and enjoy hikes and picnics under the riparian oak woodlands. If it is true that history repeats itself, you’ve come to the right place!
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