James
W. Marshall discovered gold in 1848 on the South Fork of the American River in
the valley the Nisenan Indians knew as Cullumah. This event led to the greatest
mass movement of people in the Western Hemisphere and was the spark that ignited
the spectacular growth of the west during the ensuing decades. The gold
discovery site, located in the still visible tailrace of Sutter's sawmill, in
present day Coloma California, is one of the most significant historic sites in
the nation.
The purpose of Marshall Gold Discovery State Historic Park is to secure for the
people and to make available for their observation, inspiration, and enjoyment,
the gold discovery site and its environs as an accurate portrayal of the story
that unfolded at the time of the discovery and Gold Rush. The park's
interpretive program primarily embraces the period from 1847 through 1852, but
also shows the town of Coloma as it developed.
Marshall Gold Discovery State Historic Park is the place where James W. Marshall
found some shining flecks of gold in the tailrace of the sawmill he was building
for himself and John Sutter. This discovery in 1848 changed the course of
California history. The park has a museum, with exhibits that tell the story of
the Gold Rush, a replica of the sawmill and a number of historic buildings.
Visitors also have the opportunity to try panning for gold in the American River
or enjoy a picnic under the trees. The monument and statue placed above
Marshall's gravesite (who died in 1885) is California's first historic landmark.
Throughout the year the park has daily sawmill demonstrations, special events
and exhibits, education and living history programs, and "Live History
Days" every Thursday, and Friday in Spring and Fall.
Seasons/Climate/Recommended Clothing
Summer and spring are warm; fall and winter can be cool.
Layered clothing is advised.
Location-Directions
The park is located in Coloma on Highway 49 between
Placerville and Auburn.
Coloma, CA Latitude/Longitude: 38.8000/-120.8892
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530-622-3470 |
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Operating Hours: | |
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Daily Park Hours 8:00 am to Sunset Museum and Building Hours: 10:00 am – 3:00 pm Closed Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year's. |
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Address: | |
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310 Back Street Coloma, CA 95613 Mailing Address: PO Box 265 Coloma, CA 95613 |
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