Guide to Marshall Gold Discovery State Historic Park

Eureka!  When James Marshall discovered gold in 1848 near present day Coloma, it sparked one of the greatest mass movements of people the world has seen, the California Gold Rush.  The discovery shaped California's and the nation's history.  The site of that discovery is considered one of the most significant historic sites in the nation and it's only about an hour away from Sacramento along the beautiful American River.

SUTTER'S MILL

James Marshall was building a sawmill for himself and John Sutter in the area known as "Callumah" to the local Nisenan and Miwok Indians.  In January 1948, he discovered flecks of gold in the streambed near the mill and the told the workers "Boy, by God, I believe I've found a gold mine".  You can still see parts of the original mill and a replica of the original at the site.

BUILDINGS

More than 20 historic buildings are also at the park including mining, house, school, and store exhibits.  You can the ruins of the jail at the site, building used by some of the Chinese miners who came to find their fortune and the Monroe house.  The Gooch-Monroe family came to Coloma as slaves in 1849 and the next year California became a free state.  The family became successful farmers and in 1940 sold some of their land to the state which included the original site of Sutter Mill and the site of the Marshall's gold discovery.

STATUE AND CEMETERY

A short trek up a hill from the mill, visitors can explore James Marshall's cabin and the pioneer cemetery.  A statue of James Marshall pointing toward the American River gold discovery site marks his grave in the cemetery.  The entire Gooch-Marshall family are also buried there.

GOLD PANNING

If you are looking to strike it rich yourself in the spot that sparked the Gold Rush, you can.  Recreational gold panning is allowed on the east side of the river across Mount Murphy Bridge with hands and pans only.  Park volunteers also give gold panning lessons on Saturdays and Sundays at 10 a.m., 11 a.m., 12 p.m., 2 p.m. and 3 p.m.
They will also give group lessons.

Group Lessons/ School Groups
Reservations Required   Call 530 344-1895
Tuesday- Friday  10:00 am - 4:00 pm

GETTING THERE

Gold Discovery Museum and Visitor Center
310 Back Street
Coloma
530-622-3470
More info: parks.ca.gov

The park is located in Coloma on Highway 49 between Placerville and Coloma.