class 2 fremont and gold 2015
TRANSCRIPT
You know you’re You know you’re a Tahoe Local if:a Tahoe Local if:
Your Your winter winter household household planning planning starts in starts in June!June!
Orographic Orographic precipitationprecipitation
Dams: California Dams: California versus in Nevada versus in Nevada
Cave Creek Dam, Cave Creek Reservoir, Nevada Department of Conservation and Natural Resources
Davis Dam, Lake Mohave, United States Bureau of Reclamation
Derby Dam (diversion dam), USBR Echo Canyon Dam, Echo Canyon
Reservoir, Nevada DCNR Hoover Dam, Lake Mead, USBR Lahontan Dam, Lake Lahontan USBR Rye Patch Dam, Rye Patch Reservoir,
USBR South Fork Dam, South Fork Reservoir,
Nevada DCNR Lake Tahoe Dam, Lake Tahoe, USBR
(on California / Nevada border) unnamed levee, Topaz Lake, Walker
River Irrigation District (on California / Nevada border)
Wild Horse Dam, Wild Horse Reservoir, Bureau of Indian Affairs
Dams in California
Dams in Nevada
PiuteLast Week We LearnedLast Week We Learned Week #1- Ancient Peoples, Week #1- Ancient Peoples,
Tahoe Geology, Tahoe’s treesTahoe Geology, Tahoe’s trees This week #2:This week #2: United States History prior to United States History prior to
18441844 Emigrant Trail beginnings Emigrant Trail beginnings Chapter 3- John C. Fremont – Chapter 3- John C. Fremont –
18441844 Chapter 4 – Gold California and Chapter 4 – Gold California and
Tahoe GoldTahoe Gold
Tahoe StatisticsTahoe Statistics 22 miles long22 miles long 12 miles wide12 miles wide 72 miles around72 miles around Deepest spot is 1638 feet deepDeepest spot is 1638 feet deep You can sink the Empire State You can sink the Empire State
Building in the deepest part of Building in the deepest part of Tahoe and have to look down Tahoe and have to look down 150 feet to see the top! 150 feet to see the top! (including broadcast antenna (including broadcast antenna reaches 1472 ft) reaches 1472 ft)
Averages 1000 feet deepAverages 1000 feet deep Approximately 39 trillion Approximately 39 trillion
gallons of water. What would gallons of water. What would Tahoe’s net worth would be if Tahoe’s net worth would be if you bottled and sold the water?you bottled and sold the water?
Value of Tahoe Water On The Value of Tahoe Water On The Open MarketOpen Market
39 trillion gallons 39 trillion gallons $6.00/quart in Cabo San Lucas $6.00/quart in Cabo San Lucas
Sheraton, June 2006Sheraton, June 2006 $24/gallon$24/gallon $936 trillion dollars$936 trillion dollars USA National debt- USA National debt- 09/28/2009 $18+ trillion09/28/2009 $18+ trillion http://www.usdebtclock.org/http://www.usdebtclock.org/
Tahoe Is in the Sierra Nevada Tahoe Is in the Sierra Nevada Range.Range.
What does Sierra Nevada mean?What does Sierra Nevada mean? Sierra – sawtooth or capSierra – sawtooth or cap Nevada – Nevar – Spanish for snowNevada – Nevar – Spanish for snow We live in the “snow capped” mountains.We live in the “snow capped” mountains. There is a mountain range named Sierra There is a mountain range named Sierra
Nevada in Spain.Nevada in Spain. Named by Padre Pedro Font in 1776 Named by Padre Pedro Font in 1776
looking East near Antioch, California.looking East near Antioch, California.
Sierra Nevada
California - Where Does the Word Come From?California - Where Does the Word Come From?
Either the Spanish name of an earthly Either the Spanish name of an earthly paradise, in a 16paradise, in a 16thth century novel or from century novel or from the Spanish phrase, hot as a furnace, the Spanish phrase, hot as a furnace, color de fornicolor de forni Dictionary of Word Origins Dictionary of Word Origins Joseph T. Shipley Littlefield Joseph T. Shipley Littlefield Adams and Co. Totowa New Jersey 1974 pg 335Adams and Co. Totowa New Jersey 1974 pg 335
In the 1510 Spanish author Montalvo In the 1510 Spanish author Montalvo wrote wrote Las Sergas de EsplandiánLas Sergas de Esplandián (The (The Exploits of Esplandian). The story Exploits of Esplandian). The story described the Island of California and it described the Island of California and it is populated by Amazon black women is populated by Amazon black women lead by Queen Califia. Their weapons lead by Queen Califia. Their weapons were all made of gold. The island were all made of gold. The island abounds with gold and precious abounds with gold and precious stones…" stones…"
Pacific Ocean explorer Cortez being Pacific Ocean explorer Cortez being familiar with the story initially named the familiar with the story initially named the “Island” (later learned it was a peninsula) “Island” (later learned it was a peninsula) in 1535 after the gold island.in 1535 after the gold island. Rolle/Graines The Rolle/Graines The Golden State: A History of California 2Golden State: A History of California 2ndnd ed Harlan Davidson Inc. 1979 ed Harlan Davidson Inc. 1979 Pg 31Pg 31
This 1669 map shows California as an island.
1720 map shows California as an island.
1750 map shows California not an island
Early Spanish CaliforniaEarly Spanish California 1769 Spanish Colonization of California started 1769 Spanish Colonization of California started
with San Diego Mission. with San Diego Mission. Padre Sera was a priest developing mission. The Padre Sera was a priest developing mission. The
distant property owner - was the King of Spain. distant property owner - was the King of Spain. Charles III (1759 – 1788).Charles III (1759 – 1788).
1792 American fur trading vessel 1792 American fur trading vessel Columbia Columbia RedivivaRediviva (commonly known as the (commonly known as the ColumbiaColumbia) ) was a privately owned ship under Captain Robert was a privately owned ship under Captain Robert Gray, best known for going to the Pacific Gray, best known for going to the Pacific Northwest for the maritime fur trade. The Northwest for the maritime fur trade. The "Rediviva" ("Rediviva" (LatinLatin "revived") was added to her "revived") was added to her name upon a rebuilding in 1787. Since name upon a rebuilding in 1787. Since ColumbiaColumbia was privately owned, she did not carry the prefix was privately owned, she did not carry the prefix designation "USS” and came for the sea otter designation "USS” and came for the sea otter pelts (Sea Otter pelt 600,000 hairs per square pelts (Sea Otter pelt 600,000 hairs per square inch sold for 120 Spanish silver dollars/pelt in inch sold for 120 Spanish silver dollars/pelt in China – equivalent of about $2,400)China – equivalent of about $2,400) John Vaillant The John Vaillant The Golden Spruce Norton and Company 2005 page 19Golden Spruce Norton and Company 2005 page 19 .. Warren A. Beck Warren A. Beck The California The California Experience: a literal odysseyExperience: a literal odyssey Peregrine Smith 1976 pg 50 Peregrine Smith 1976 pg 50
Spanish Missions -1769 to 1833
Land Ownership Changed From Land Ownership Changed From Spain to Mexico Through Spain to Mexico Through
RancherosRancheros 1821 Mexico wins Independence from 1821 Mexico wins Independence from
Spain.Spain. 1833 (12 years later) Mexican Government 1833 (12 years later) Mexican Government
has control from the Spanish missionaries has control from the Spanish missionaries and granted rancheros to the soldiers who and granted rancheros to the soldiers who had fought for Mexico, pledged allegiance had fought for Mexico, pledged allegiance to Mexico and entered the Catholic faith. to Mexico and entered the Catholic faith.
There were exceptions for some who did There were exceptions for some who did not fight in the war.not fight in the war.
Early California (future Lucky Early California (future Lucky Baldwin land)Baldwin land)
1839 (1845) Hugo Reid received 1839 (1845) Hugo Reid received provisional title to Rancho Santa Anita provisional title to Rancho Santa Anita after becoming a naturalized citizen and after becoming a naturalized citizen and promised to embrace the Catholic promised to embrace the Catholic religion. (Similar to homesteading)religion. (Similar to homesteading)
Land Grants – Rancheros – The title “Don” Land Grants – Rancheros – The title “Don” were given the owners of the rancheros. were given the owners of the rancheros.
1875 Lucky Baldwin (famed Tahoe 1875 Lucky Baldwin (famed Tahoe resident) purchased the 8,500 acre Santa resident) purchased the 8,500 acre Santa Anita Ranchero. By 1879 he added Anita Ranchero. By 1879 he added Ranchos: Portero Grande, de Felipe Lugo, Ranchos: Portero Grande, de Felipe Lugo, La Puente, and San Francisquito (46,000 La Puente, and San Francisquito (46,000 acres in total).acres in total). California Arboretum Foundation California Arboretum Foundation Historic Santa Anita: The Development of the LandHistoric Santa Anita: The Development of the Land 2004 2004 pg 8 -13pg 8 -13
Russians in CaliforniaRussians in California The Russian-American Fur The Russian-American Fur
Company came in 1805 at Fort Company came in 1805 at Fort Ross, above Bodega Bay and Ross, above Bodega Bay and was the principal center of was the principal center of Russian activities to grow Russian activities to grow supplies for their fellow supplies for their fellow workers in Alaska. workers in Alaska.
By 1841, over hunting of seal By 1841, over hunting of seal and sea otters and and sea otters and increasingly hostile relations increasingly hostile relations with the Pomo Indians the with the Pomo Indians the Russians left California. They Russians left California. They sold their moveable property sold their moveable property to new Sacramento resident to new Sacramento resident John Sutter in 1841.John Sutter in 1841. Beck Williams Beck Williams California: A History of the Golden StateCalifornia: A History of the Golden State 1972 1972 DoubleDay and Co. Inc. Page 95DoubleDay and Co. Inc. Page 95
Watercolor of Fort Ross by Il'ia Watercolor of Fort Ross by Il'ia Voznesenky, 1841 Voznesenky, 1841
Map of Bodega Bay and Russian RiverMap of Bodega Bay and Russian River
Fort Ross
Fort Ross
Unite d Sta te s 1803 Sp a nish o r o the r ruleUnite d Sta te sLo uisia na Purc ha se 1803
No rthwe stTe rrito ry
T h ir t ee n o r ig
in a l Co l o n ie sLouisiana
Purchase
US History ContinuedUS History Continued Lewis and Clark were instructed by President Lewis and Clark were instructed by President
Jefferson to: Jefferson to: A. Map a new route to the Pacific OceanA. Map a new route to the Pacific Ocean B. Make contact with the Native AmericansB. Make contact with the Native Americans C. Obtain specimens for further studyC. Obtain specimens for further study D. Keep a full record of activities during the D. Keep a full record of activities during the
ExpeditionExpedition Lewis & Clark along with the Corps of Discovery Lewis & Clark along with the Corps of Discovery
departed from Camp Dubois, (On the east side of the departed from Camp Dubois, (On the east side of the Mississippi and Missouri river confluence, directly Mississippi and Missouri river confluence, directly East of St. Louis Missouri) on May 14, 1804. East of St. Louis Missouri) on May 14, 1804.
1805 Lewis and Clark passed Fort Vancouver (WA) 1805 Lewis and Clark passed Fort Vancouver (WA) and reached the Oregon coast after 18 months of and reached the Oregon coast after 18 months of travel.travel. California Chronology; A Period of 350 years 1510-1860California Chronology; A Period of 350 years 1510-1860
1804 - 18061804 - 1806
1805 Fort Ross had 1805 Fort Ross had already put a moratorium already put a moratorium on sea otter peltson sea otter pelts
Spain/Mexico
RussiaUSAEngland
M isso uri C o m p ro m ise 1820 No rthe rn Fre e So ilSo uthe rn Sla ve So il
M is s o u r i # 2 4
M a ine# 23
Fre e So il
Sla ve so il
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Fe d e ra l Te rrito ryUnite d Sta te s
Sp a nish Rule 1769until 1821 the nM e xic o
Sp a n ish Ru le
until 1821 the n
Unite d Sta te sUS a nd Britishc o -rule 1818until 1846
Missouri is North of the Missouri is North of the Ohio River. This opposes Ohio River. This opposes the ban of slavery by the the ban of slavery by the Northwest Ordinance of Northwest Ordinance of
17871787
California HistoryCalifornia History
1838, Sutter went to Fort Vancouver, WA, 1838, Sutter went to Fort Vancouver, WA, (remember Lewis and Clark 1805) in hopes of (remember Lewis and Clark 1805) in hopes of finding a ship that would take him to San Francisco finding a ship that would take him to San Francisco Bay. Bay.
His journey involved detours to the Hawaiian His journey involved detours to the Hawaiian Islands and to a Russian colony at Sitka, Alaska. Islands and to a Russian colony at Sitka, Alaska.
1839 July: In California, John Sutter becomes a 1839 July: In California, John Sutter becomes a California Mexican citizen and Catholic, then California Mexican citizen and Catholic, then receives a land grant along the Sacramento River.receives a land grant along the Sacramento River. California Chronology; A Period of 350 years 1510-1860California Chronology; A Period of 350 years 1510-1860
California HistoryCalifornia History Sutter was granted nearly fifty Sutter was granted nearly fifty
thousand acres and authorized "to thousand acres and authorized "to represent in the establishment of New represent in the establishment of New Helvetia for Mexico.” Helvetia for Mexico.”
Sutter's Swiss-inspired name for his Sutter's Swiss-inspired name for his colony colony New Helvetia New Helvetia was built on the was built on the Sacramento River.Sacramento River.
http://www.pbs.org/weta/thewest/people/s_z/http://www.pbs.org/weta/thewest/people/s_z/sutter.htmsutter.htm
California HistoryCalifornia History 1839 April Sutter built Sutter's Fort, clay 1839 April Sutter built Sutter's Fort, clay
bricks from Sutterville Bricks structure with bricks from Sutterville Bricks structure with walls eighteen feet high and three feet walls eighteen feet high and three feet thick. thick.
1841 built a farm named Hock Farm 20 1841 built a farm named Hock Farm 20 miles north near Yuba City on the Feather miles north near Yuba City on the Feather River.River.
1841 the Russians abandoned Fort Ross, 1841 the Russians abandoned Fort Ross, and after trying several other buyers they and after trying several other buyers they offered the furnishings to John Sutter for offered the furnishings to John Sutter for thirty thousand dollars. thirty thousand dollars.
http://www.pbs.org/weta/thewest/people/s_z/sutter.htmhttp://www.pbs.org/weta/thewest/people/s_z/sutter.htm
9 years after Sutter first arrived. 9 years after Sutter first arrived. Purposefully built on higher ground. Purposefully built on higher ground. South of the America River and East of South of the America River and East of the Sacramento River.the Sacramento River.
1948 Sutter deeded his land to his son, John Sutter, Jr. The 1948 Sutter deeded his land to his son, John Sutter, Jr. The younger Sutter began laying out the Sacramento town site younger Sutter began laying out the Sacramento town site in January 1849 and selling lots with Sam Brannan.in January 1849 and selling lots with Sam Brannan.
May 12: Sam Brannan set off gold fever in San Francisco May 12: Sam Brannan set off gold fever in San Francisco when he waved a bottle of gold dust and shouted "Gold! when he waved a bottle of gold dust and shouted "Gold! Gold! Gold from the American River!" He received the gold Gold! Gold from the American River!" He received the gold as payment for goods he sold in his store at New Helvetia as payment for goods he sold in his store at New Helvetia at Sutter's Fort.at Sutter's Fort.
Sutter moved to Hock Farm, near Yuba City, with his wife Sutter moved to Hock Farm, near Yuba City, with his wife and children. In 1865, Hock Farm was burned down by a and children. In 1865, Hock Farm was burned down by a disgruntled worker. Sutter then decided to try to obtain disgruntled worker. Sutter then decided to try to obtain reimbursement from Congress for his help settling reimbursement from Congress for his help settling California; his aid to emigrants; and his losses from having California; his aid to emigrants; and his losses from having his Sobrante Land Grant declared invalid by the courts. his Sobrante Land Grant declared invalid by the courts.
In 1871, he moved to Lititz, Pennsylvania because of his In 1871, he moved to Lititz, Pennsylvania because of his poor health. On June 16, 1880, Congress adjourned poor health. On June 16, 1880, Congress adjourned without passing a bill that would have given Sutter $50,000 without passing a bill that would have given Sutter $50,000 as reimbursement. Two days later John Sutter died of as reimbursement. Two days later John Sutter died of heart failure in Washington D.C.. Mrs. Sutter died the heart failure in Washington D.C.. Mrs. Sutter died the following January.following January.
From 1864 to 1873 Sacramento built up the streets 10 to 12 feet high. Choice for building owners , either raise the whole building 10 feet and put on blocks or left the building same level and walked in the second floor! Historic tours are available for the under ground
John C Fremont Stages in Life John C Fremont Stages in Life 1813 - 1890 1813 - 1890
StudentStudent – Fremont studied excelled in math (and – Fremont studied excelled in math (and starts a life long hobby of questioning authority) at starts a life long hobby of questioning authority) at Charleston (S.C.) College but was expelled in 1831 Charleston (S.C.) College but was expelled in 1831 for bad attendance, he eventually obtains an for bad attendance, he eventually obtains an degree and teaches mathematics on board USS degree and teaches mathematics on board USS Natchez.Natchez.
Explorer / Map makerExplorer / Map maker - 5 expeditions covering - 5 expeditions covering 30,000 miles over land surveying and recording 30,000 miles over land surveying and recording findings of plant and animals. Expedition#2 he findings of plant and animals. Expedition#2 he wrote down the sighting of Lake Tahoe February wrote down the sighting of Lake Tahoe February 14, 1844 and it was his map made on this trip used 14, 1844 and it was his map made on this trip used to determine the California Nevada border in the to determine the California Nevada border in the California Constitutional Convention 1849.California Constitutional Convention 1849.
Gold Mine OwnerGold Mine Owner – Mariposa County (near – Mariposa County (near Yosemite) through a deception of a friend buying Yosemite) through a deception of a friend buying him land.him land.
MilitaryMilitary – Leader in the California Bear Flag Revolt – Leader in the California Bear Flag Revolt - Mexican War and a general in the Civil War, found - Mexican War and a general in the Civil War, found guilty of mutiny 1848 for disobeying orders after guilty of mutiny 1848 for disobeying orders after the Mexican War.the Mexican War.
PoliticalPolitical – one of the first two California Senators, – one of the first two California Senators, two time presidential candidate - First Republican two time presidential candidate - First Republican Presidential candidate 1856, Ran against Abraham Presidential candidate 1856, Ran against Abraham Lincoln for president 1864, appointed Governor of Lincoln for president 1864, appointed Governor of Arizona.Arizona.
Ft. Laramie
Fremont’s Father-in-law and WifeFremont’s Father-in-law and Wife
28 year old Fremont elopes with 16 year old Jessie Benton-Fremont in 1841
Missouri 1st Democratic Senator Thomas Hart “Bullion” Benton. Proponent of US currency being backed by gold!
After two surveys as an understudy, in 1842 Nicollet gets After two surveys as an understudy, in 1842 Nicollet gets sick so John C. Fremont becomes the leader of his sick so John C. Fremont becomes the leader of his FirstFirst Topographical Expedition. It mapped the trail to the South Topographical Expedition. It mapped the trail to the South Pass and Pass and Rocky MountainsRocky Mountains. (Fremont Peak). (Fremont Peak)
Frémont was his own astronomer, hypsometrist (measure Frémont was his own astronomer, hypsometrist (measure elevation), meteorologist, geologist, botanist, and elevation), meteorologist, geologist, botanist, and ethnographer (study of people) --later surveys employed ethnographer (study of people) --later surveys employed specialists. specialists.
22ndnd Expedition 1843– 44 Tahoe Expedition 1843– 44 Tahoe 1843 to 1844 1843 to 1844 SecondSecond Topographical Topographical
ExpeditionExpedition, started to the Oregon started to the Oregon region through the South Pass. region through the South Pass. Eventually by Eventually by TahoeTahoe into California into California and back to St. Louis.and back to St. Louis.
Explore the land, survey and map it, Explore the land, survey and map it, record the location of Indian groups record the location of Indian groups and gather as much “scientific” and gather as much “scientific” (reconnaissance) information about it (reconnaissance) information about it as was possible.as was possible.
““Manifest Destiny” Atlantic to Pacific.Manifest Destiny” Atlantic to Pacific.
M isso uri
Miss
issip
p i
St J o se p h
C o lum b ia Rive r
John C. Fremont 2nd trip 1843-John C. Fremont 2nd trip 1843-1844 Route – Tahoe Discovery1844 Route – Tahoe Discovery
Thirty-one year old Second Lieutenant John Charles Frémont's second Topographical Expedition, left Missouri June 5, 1843, and, mapping the Oregon Trail, had traveled to Fort Vancouver.
Instead of returning east, the Expedition turned south in Oregon to explore the Great Basin.
November 18, 1843
February 14, 1844January 26, 1844
March 8, 1844
June 5, 1843August 6, 1844
The expedition was comprised of 39 men and 104 horses and mules and a bronze howitzer cannon.
The Pyramid and Domes, a line of dome-shaped tufa rocks in Pyramid Lake, Nevada photographed in 1867. Taken as part of Clarence King's Geological Exploration of the Fortieth Parallel, Timothy O'Sullivan's mesmerizing pictures of the other-worldly rock formations at Pyramid Lake committed the sacred native American Indian site to camera for the first time. O’Sullivan photographed the land in the 1860s and 1870s.
http://www.dailymail.co.uk,/news/article-2149899/The-American-West-youve-seen-Amazing-1 9th-century-pictures-landscape-chartered-time.html
Fremont’s Fremont’s CannonCannon
January 29, 1844. Brevet January 29, 1844. Brevet Captain John C. Frémont, Captain John C. Frémont, West Walker River, West Walker River, "It "It was of the kind invented was of the kind invented by the French for the by the French for the mountain part of their mountain part of their war in Algierswar in Algiers. We left . We left it, to the great sorrow of it, to the great sorrow of the whole party." the whole party."
The The Fremont CannonFremont Cannon is is awarded to each awarded to each season's winner the season's winner the college football game college football game between the University of between the University of Nevada, Las Vegas and Nevada, Las Vegas and the University of Nevada the University of Nevada Reno.Reno.
Where Was Fremont Standing Where Was Fremont Standing When He First Saw Lake Tahoe?When He First Saw Lake Tahoe?
Red Lake Peak near Carson Pass.Red Lake Peak near Carson Pass. Highway 88 on the way to Kirkwood Highway 88 on the way to Kirkwood
Ski Resort.Ski Resort.
.
Red Lake Peak near Carson Pass
Near the Top of Red Lake PeakNear the Top of Red Lake Peak
Lake Tahoe Lake Tahoe
Long Camp
View Fremont and Preuss saw from Red Lake Peak
Lake Tahoe First Named:Lake Tahoe First Named: Washoe - Da ow a ga “Edge of the lake”Washoe - Da ow a ga “Edge of the lake” Da ow – “life sustaining water”Da ow – “life sustaining water” Pruess cartographer for Fremont – Pruess cartographer for Fremont –
Mountain Lake Mountain Lake Fremont - Lake Bonpland after French Fremont - Lake Bonpland after French
botanist who traveled with Humboldt.botanist who traveled with Humboldt. Lake Bigler – third governor of CaliforniaLake Bigler – third governor of California
120º Longitude
39º Latitude
35º Latitude
Fremont’s 1848 MapFremont’s 1848 Map
1848 Fremont map1848 Fremont map
Stevens-Murphy-TownsendStevens-Murphy-TownsendSplit Many Times PartySplit Many Times Party
The Stevens-Murphy-Townsend wagon train left The Stevens-Murphy-Townsend wagon train left Council Bluffs, Iowa, in May 1844. (Fremont Council Bluffs, Iowa, in May 1844. (Fremont was in Sacramento in March 1844) was in Sacramento in March 1844)
The trail that they made, opened the Emigrant The trail that they made, opened the Emigrant Trail for the Donner Party two years after and Trail for the Donner Party two years after and became the route of the 1869 Transcontinental became the route of the 1869 Transcontinental Railroad through the Sierra Range. Same time Railroad through the Sierra Range. Same time as the 1844 “Micheltorena War."as the 1844 “Micheltorena War." http://www.americanheritage.com/articles/magazine/ah/1955/4/1955_4_60.shtml
Stevens-Murphy-TownsendStevens-Murphy-Townsend At Fort Hall, Idaho they separated from the At Fort Hall, Idaho they separated from the
Oregon party. At Raft River, eleven wagons in Oregon party. At Raft River, eleven wagons in line and headed south and west, following the line and headed south and west, following the wheel tracks of an emigrant party that Joe wheel tracks of an emigrant party that Joe Walker, the famous mountain man, had tried to Walker, the famous mountain man, had tried to take to California the year before, but had to take to California the year before, but had to leave the wagons and finished the trip with the leave the wagons and finished the trip with the animals and on foot. animals and on foot.
The party followed the Humboldt 300 miles The party followed the Humboldt 300 miles river to the Sink. On the advice of an Indian river to the Sink. On the advice of an Indian chief, whom they called Truckee, they decided chief, whom they called Truckee, they decided to go West (directly up and over the Sierra to go West (directly up and over the Sierra Nevadas).Nevadas). http://www.americanheritage.com/articles/magazine/ah/1955/4/1955_4_60.shtml
Stevens-Murphy-Townsend Party Stevens-Murphy-Townsend Party 18441844 Future
Idaho
Future Utah
Future Nevada
Future California
Future Oregon
Future Oregon
Stevens-Murphy-Townsend Party – The Stevens-Murphy-Townsend Party – The Split Many Times party Pre Gold RushSplit Many Times party Pre Gold Rush
1844: Townsend-Murphy-1844: Townsend-Murphy-Stevens Party crossed the Stevens Party crossed the Sierra Nevada at Donner Sierra Nevada at Donner Summit. Six of the Summit. Six of the “horseback party” split to “horseback party” split to follow the Truckee River to follow the Truckee River to Lake Tahoe on November Lake Tahoe on November 16, 1844, but did not write 16, 1844, but did not write about seeing Lake Tahoe.about seeing Lake Tahoe.
Moses Schallenberger Moses Schallenberger stayed the winter and built stayed the winter and built a cabin that was used two a cabin that was used two years later by the Donner years later by the Donner party.party.
.
To Reno
To Carson City
8989
8928
28
431
50
207
Lake TahoeThe “6”
Moses stays
Murphy-Stevens-Townsend Murphy-Stevens-Townsend PartyParty
Moses Moses Schallenberger, at Schallenberger, at the age of the age of seventeen stayed seventeen stayed the winter.the winter.
Big BendBig Bend Big Bend was named after the "big bend" Big Bend was named after the "big bend"
of the South Yuba river, and was the of the South Yuba river, and was the winter camp of the Stephens party of winter camp of the Stephens party of 1844. Members of the Stephens party 1844. Members of the Stephens party were trapped there by heavy winter were trapped there by heavy winter snows in November 1844.snows in November 1844.
The rescue party left the survival camp The rescue party left the survival camp on December 6. Some rode horses, while on December 6. Some rode horses, while others walked to Sutter's Fort. others walked to Sutter's Fort.
Big Bend was later Big Bend was later named after the "big named after the "big bend" of the South bend" of the South Yuba river, and was Yuba river, and was the winter camp of the winter camp of the Stephens party of the Stephens party of 1844-451844-45
Surprise for the Stevens Murphy Townsend Surprise for the Stevens Murphy Townsend Rescue Party at Sutter's FortRescue Party at Sutter's Fort
John Sutter (not Fremont) was involved in the 1844 John Sutter (not Fremont) was involved in the 1844 “Micheltorena War" a revolution in Mexican ruled “Micheltorena War" a revolution in Mexican ruled California. Sutter had sided with Micheltorena California. Sutter had sided with Micheltorena (eventually was on the losing side) and was overjoyed (eventually was on the losing side) and was overjoyed to find 21 well armed men who were coerced to join to find 21 well armed men who were coerced to join him on an expedition to Santa Barbara. him on an expedition to Santa Barbara.
Party Captain Elisha Stephens led the group as far as Party Captain Elisha Stephens led the group as far as Monterey, then convinced Sutter that they were not Monterey, then convinced Sutter that they were not needed, and returned to Sutter's Fort. They gathered needed, and returned to Sutter's Fort. They gathered supplies and headed back to rescue their families, supplies and headed back to rescue their families, leaving on February 20, 1845 for the Sierra. leaving on February 20, 1845 for the Sierra.
The entire Stephens party arrived in Sacramento with The entire Stephens party arrived in Sacramento with two more people than they started with, thanks to two two more people than they started with, thanks to two births along the trail. births along the trail.
Fremont's 3Fremont's 3rdrd Topographical Topographical Expedition 1845 – 1846 Expedition 1845 – 1846 Mexican WarMexican War
General Jose Castro of the Mexican Government General Jose Castro of the Mexican Government in Monterey felt Fremont was loitering (accused in Monterey felt Fremont was loitering (accused of stealing horses and insulting the daughter of of stealing horses and insulting the daughter of a prominent Californio) and was asked to leave.a prominent Californio) and was asked to leave.
Fremont took his time. March 4, 1846 and Fremont took his time. March 4, 1846 and defiantly he planted the US flag on Hawk Peak defiantly he planted the US flag on Hawk Peak Gabilan Range, about six miles southeast of Gabilan Range, about six miles southeast of San Juan Bautista (30 miles from Monterey). San Juan Bautista (30 miles from Monterey).
Unknown to Fremont at the time, on March 9, Unknown to Fremont at the time, on March 9, 1846 1846 General Zachary Taylor's troops General Zachary Taylor's troops crossed the Nueces River into Mexico crossed the Nueces River into Mexico intending to go war with Mexico. Skirmish intending to go war with Mexico. Skirmish on 4/25/ 1846 near the Rio Grand.on 4/25/ 1846 near the Rio Grand.
Fremont's 3Fremont's 3rdrd Topographical Topographical Expedition 1845 – 1846 Expedition 1845 – 1846 Mexican WarMexican War
Fremont eventually headed to Oregon mapping Fremont eventually headed to Oregon mapping the west side of the Sierra’s. On the way he was the west side of the Sierra’s. On the way he was attacked by Modoc Indians near Lake Klamath attacked by Modoc Indians near Lake Klamath now Oregon.now Oregon.
May 9, 1846 Lieutenant Archibald H. Gillespie, May 9, 1846 Lieutenant Archibald H. Gillespie, (after traveling across Mexico to California (after traveling across Mexico to California carrying special messages from Secretary of carrying special messages from Secretary of State Buchanan to Thomas Larkin Consul at State Buchanan to Thomas Larkin Consul at Monterey) showed Fremont a copy of the dispatch Monterey) showed Fremont a copy of the dispatch to Larkin, as well as a packet of letters from to Larkin, as well as a packet of letters from father-in-law Senator Benton. father-in-law Senator Benton.
Fremont (map maker) immediately went back to Fremont (map maker) immediately went back to help with the Bear Flag Revolt.help with the Bear Flag Revolt.
Talbot, Kern and Walker
Fremont
Kit Carson
Lt. Archibald H. GillespieLt. Archibald H. Gillespie
Klamath Lake ORKlamath Lake OR
Hawthorn NVHawthorn NV
Fremont's Third Topographical Fremont's Third Topographical Expedition 1845 - 1846Expedition 1845 - 1846
Navy Commodore Stockton asked him to bring Navy Commodore Stockton asked him to bring northern troops “California Battalion” to northern troops “California Battalion” to defeat the Mexican Californio’s. Fremont wins.defeat the Mexican Californio’s. Fremont wins.
January 13, 1847 (Lower ranking) Fremont January 13, 1847 (Lower ranking) Fremont signs a Treaty to end the war with Mexican signs a Treaty to end the war with Mexican General Andres Pico at Cahuenga Pass (near General Andres Pico at Cahuenga Pass (near Los Angeles River) to sign the Treaty of Los Angeles River) to sign the Treaty of Cahuenga for Northern Mexico - CaliforniaCahuenga for Northern Mexico - California
Higher ranking Army General Kearny and Navy Higher ranking Army General Kearny and Navy Commodore Stockton were in Los Angeles, not Commodore Stockton were in Los Angeles, not in attendance at the treaty signing and in attendance at the treaty signing and apparently disgruntled.apparently disgruntled.
The Campo de Cahuenga The Campo de Cahuenga State Historic Park is located at State Historic Park is located at 3919 Lankershim Boulevard, 3919 Lankershim Boulevard, North Hollywood, California North Hollywood, California USA, across the street from USA, across the street from Universal Studios.Universal Studios.
1846 March 9: Mexico and United States 1846 March 9: Mexico and United States have a skirmish over the boundary along have a skirmish over the boundary along the Rio Grande. Mexico takes the first the Rio Grande. Mexico takes the first battle across the Rio Grande into Texas. battle across the Rio Grande into Texas.
1846 May 11, US President James Polk “…1846 May 11, US President James Polk “…the cup of forbearance (has) been the cup of forbearance (has) been exhausted,” and that “American blood exhausted,” and that “American blood (has) been spilled on American soil.”(has) been spilled on American soil.” www.vivasancarlos.com Actually the spot Polk talked Actually the spot Polk talked about was in America but not within the about was in America but not within the United States (or Texas) border. Political United States (or Texas) border. Political rhetoric (doublespeak) to start a war is not rhetoric (doublespeak) to start a war is not new!new!
With United States Federal Army troops With United States Federal Army troops (not Texan) General Zachary Taylor drives (not Texan) General Zachary Taylor drives the Mexican Army back across the Rio the Mexican Army back across the Rio Grande.Grande.
Te xa s a nne xe d b y Unite d Sta te s 1845
M e xic a n ruleUnite d Sta te sRe p ub lic o f Te xa s
United StatesMexico
Rio Grande
Texas Republic
PresidentJames Polk
1845-49Manifest DestinyUnited States
After the Mexican war 1848
Nueces River
3/4/1846 Fremont is in California defiantly planting the US flag near Monterey during his 3rd Expedition
4/25/1846 Zachary Taylor and US Army skirmish with Mexican Army.
5/9/1846 Archibald Gillespie meets Fremont and Fremont turns back to help the Bear Flag Revolt
Fremont's Volunteer Brigade: five Delaware Indians, a personal Fremont's Volunteer Brigade: five Delaware Indians, a personal guard, and assorted mountain men.guard, and assorted mountain men.
Commodore Stockton's Naval SquadronCommodore Stockton's Naval SquadronStockton sailed with a fourteen piece Italian Stockton sailed with a fourteen piece Italian
band, to nourish his love of music.band, to nourish his love of music.
Fremont’s Fremont’s Court-martialCourt-martial
Army General Kearny would not recognize Fremont's Army General Kearny would not recognize Fremont's military appointment by Navy Commodore Stockton. military appointment by Navy Commodore Stockton. Fremont defiantly refused to follow Army General Fremont defiantly refused to follow Army General Kearny's orders. He rationalized that he was Kearny's orders. He rationalized that he was commissioned by Stockton. When Stockton sailed commissioned by Stockton. When Stockton sailed away from California, Fremont stayed with Kearny away from California, Fremont stayed with Kearny and was later arrested for mutiny.and was later arrested for mutiny.
The US hero, battler winner Fremont was taken to The US hero, battler winner Fremont was taken to Washington, D.C., found guilty and court-martialed. Washington, D.C., found guilty and court-martialed.
President Polk remitted the sentence, but Fremont President Polk remitted the sentence, but Fremont was bitter and resigned.was bitter and resigned.
In 1847, during the Mexican war Frémont gave $3,000 to Thomas In 1847, during the Mexican war Frémont gave $3,000 to Thomas O. Larkin, the U. S. Consul to the Territory of California, in order to O. Larkin, the U. S. Consul to the Territory of California, in order to by the Santa Cruz Rancho, a choice piece of property located near by the Santa Cruz Rancho, a choice piece of property located near San Jose. San Jose.
Later Frémont happened to meet Mr. Larkin at a social function, Later Frémont happened to meet Mr. Larkin at a social function, and found out that Larkin had not bought the Santa Cruz Rancho and found out that Larkin had not bought the Santa Cruz Rancho as he had agreed to do, but instead had bought a wild tract of land as he had agreed to do, but instead had bought a wild tract of land somewhere high in the Sierra Nevada called the Las Mariposa somewhere high in the Sierra Nevada called the Las Mariposa Rancho. Rancho.
On the negative side the Las Mariposa Rancho Land Grant was On the negative side the Las Mariposa Rancho Land Grant was inaccessible, a hundred miles from the nearest settlement, one inaccessible, a hundred miles from the nearest settlement, one hundred and fifty miles from San Francisco, with no farming land, hundred and fifty miles from San Francisco, with no farming land, too wild and cold in winter even to graze cattle, and overrun with too wild and cold in winter even to graze cattle, and overrun with hostile Indians. Quite possibly, Larkin may have bought the Santa hostile Indians. Quite possibly, Larkin may have bought the Santa Cruz Ranch for himself.Cruz Ranch for himself.
On the positive side, gold was discovered near his property, On the positive side, gold was discovered near his property, Frémont became less bitter. All Fremont had to do was have some Frémont became less bitter. All Fremont had to do was have some boundary lines changed in his favor and potentially becoming very boundary lines changed in his favor and potentially becoming very rich. It is speculated that his political connections may have rich. It is speculated that his political connections may have helped alter the Rancho boundaries in his favor.helped alter the Rancho boundaries in his favor. http://www.malakoff.com/goldcountry/mariposa.htmhttp://www.malakoff.com/goldcountry/mariposa.htm
Fremont the Fortuitous Fremont the Fortuitous Gold MinerGold Miner
1848-49 1848-49 44thth Expedition - Expedition - RailroadRailroad
Privately funded to find a southern pass for a railroad. Privately funded to find a southern pass for a railroad. 10 men died due to a harsh winter.10 men died due to a harsh winter.
Moved to California because he made money with a Moved to California because he made money with a California gold mine he purchased in February 1846 – California gold mine he purchased in February 1846 – Mariposa County.Mariposa County.
Fremont the Politician Fremont the Politician He bought real estate in He bought real estate in
San Francisco, winning San Francisco, winning election as U.S. senator election as U.S. senator from California. He drew from California. He drew the short term and the short term and served only from Sept. served only from Sept. 9, 1850, to March 4, 9, 1850, to March 4, 1851. 1851.
Afterward he visited Afterward he visited Paris and London, Paris and London, where he raised funds where he raised funds for ambitious schemes for ambitious schemes on the Mariposa Gold on the Mariposa Gold Mine. Mine.
1853-54 1853-54 55thth Expedition - Expedition - RailroadRailroad
Trying to redeem his failed efforts in 1848-Trying to redeem his failed efforts in 1848-49 he wanted to show the southern route 49 he wanted to show the southern route of Colorado’s San Juan Mountains was a of Colorado’s San Juan Mountains was a good path for an all year round railway.good path for an all year round railway.
Another cold winter!Another cold winter! Last expedition for John C. Fremont but Last expedition for John C. Fremont but
more public service to come with the Civil more public service to come with the Civil War and Presidential politics.War and Presidential politics.
Fremont’s 1856 Fremont’s 1856 Presidential Presidential campaign campaign
Wm Dayton from Wm Dayton from New Jersey VPNew Jersey VP
John C. FremontJohn C. Fremont 1856 First 1856 First
nominated nominated Republican Republican President. Lost President. Lost to Buchanan. to Buchanan. Free Speech—Free Speech—Free Press--Free Press--Free Kansas--Free Kansas--FrémontFrémont
Fremont the Civil Fremont the Civil War GeneralWar General
John C. FremontJohn C. Fremont 1861 August 31 Civil War Major 1861 August 31 Civil War Major
General who freed slaves in General who freed slaves in Missouri (a border state!) Missouri (a border state!) before Lincoln Emancipation before Lincoln Emancipation Proclamation in the Proclamation in the Confederate States. Confederate States.
1861 October 24 – Lincoln 1861 October 24 – Lincoln removed him from command removed him from command of the Army of the West.of the Army of the West.
Re-instated, undersupplied Re-instated, undersupplied then lost battles to Stonewall then lost battles to Stonewall Jackson and asked to be Jackson and asked to be relieved of duty.relieved of duty.
Boston Daily Evening Transcript August 31, 1861Boston Daily Evening Transcript August 31, 1861
1864 –Fremont’s 1864 –Fremont’s second presidential second presidential
campaigncampaignFremont (CA) / Cochrane (NY) Fremont (CA) / Cochrane (NY)
Lincoln (IL) / Johnson (TN)Lincoln (IL) / Johnson (TN) McClellan (NY) / Pendleton (OH) McClellan (NY) / Pendleton (OH)
In the 1860s Frémont lost fortunes in railroad In the 1860s Frémont lost fortunes in railroad promotion and speculation on never-built lines: promotion and speculation on never-built lines: the Kansas Pacific, Southwest Pacific, Atlantic & the Kansas Pacific, Southwest Pacific, Atlantic & Pacific, Memphis, El Paso & Pacific. Pacific, Memphis, El Paso & Pacific.
It is ironic that one of the world's great fortunes It is ironic that one of the world's great fortunes was made in the building of the Central Pacific RR was made in the building of the Central Pacific RR between 1863 and 1869 by between 1863 and 1869 by The Big FourThe Big Four along along the very route Frémont had traveled in 1845 and the very route Frémont had traveled in 1845 and rejected as unfeasible in 1854.rejected as unfeasible in 1854.
Frémont lived to cross the continent by rail Frémont lived to cross the continent by rail several times.several times.
http://www.longcamp.com/calif_routes_45-46/1845_pass_route.htmlhttp://www.longcamp.com/calif_routes_45-46/1845_pass_route.html
Fremont: the Absent Arizona Fremont: the Absent Arizona Territorial GovernorTerritorial Governor
In 1878 Fremont was appointed to the Governorship In 1878 Fremont was appointed to the Governorship of the territory of Arizona. of the territory of Arizona.
5 months passed before Fremont even entered the 5 months passed before Fremont even entered the Arizona territory. He immediately went East after Arizona territory. He immediately went East after giving his annual report of the territory. giving his annual report of the territory.
He was back East from 1879-1881, Jesse Benton He was back East from 1879-1881, Jesse Benton Fremont remained in the East. Fremont remained in the East.
While Governor of Arizona Fremont tried to establish While Governor of Arizona Fremont tried to establish a lottery system that would pay for schools and a lottery system that would pay for schools and public buildings. public buildings.
Fremont was gone for so long back East that his Fremont was gone for so long back East that his Secretary of the Territory John Gosper was doing his Secretary of the Territory John Gosper was doing his job for him. job for him.
Fremont returned to the Arizona territory in October Fremont returned to the Arizona territory in October of 1881 and resigned his office. of 1881 and resigned his office.
Fremont con’tFremont con’t 1873 Fremont 1873 Fremont
retired from public retired from public life after the war life after the war and devoted his and devoted his time and money to time and money to building a southern building a southern railroad to the railroad to the Pacific Ocean. The Pacific Ocean. The project collapsed project collapsed and Fremont lost his and Fremont lost his fortune.fortune.
Died July 13, 1890. Died July 13, 1890. Buried in Piermont, Buried in Piermont, New York.New York.
In his time he was In his time he was considered considered American’s West American’s West greatest explorer. greatest explorer. Jessie Benton Jessie Benton Fremont, "From the Fremont, "From the ashes of his ashes of his camping sites have camping sites have sprung cities."sprung cities."
One Minute ReviewOne Minute Review What was the most useful or What was the most useful or
meaningful thing you learned during meaningful thing you learned during this session?this session?
What question(s) remain upper-most What question(s) remain upper-most in your mind as we end this session?in your mind as we end this session?
PiuteSo Far We LearnedSo Far We Learned Chapter One - Tahoe Geology, Tahoe’s Chapter One - Tahoe Geology, Tahoe’s
trees trees Ancient peoples Ancient peoples Chapter Two - United States History Chapter Two - United States History
prior to 1844prior to 1844 Emigrant Trail beginnings Emigrant Trail beginnings Chapter Three - John C. Fremont – Chapter Three - John C. Fremont –
18441844 Townsend-Murphy-Stevens Party 1844Townsend-Murphy-Stevens Party 1844 This hour #2:This hour #2: Donner Party 1846 - 1847 Donner Party 1846 - 1847 Chapter Four - California Gold Rush Chapter Four - California Gold Rush
18491849
You know you’re You know you’re a Tahoe Local if:a Tahoe Local if: You came You came
for the for the weekend weekend and you and you stayed for stayed for a lifetime.a lifetime.
Lady of the LakeLady of the Lake
Location of Cave RockLocation of Cave Rock
.
The Journey West – The Journey West – Ocean or OverlandOcean or Overland
Three ways to get to California: around Three ways to get to California: around South America, Atlantic – Panama - South America, Atlantic – Panama - Pacific or the Overland Trail.Pacific or the Overland Trail.
It has been estimated that some It has been estimated that some 200,000 people took the Emigrant Trail 200,000 people took the Emigrant Trail to California between 1840 and 1860, to California between 1840 and 1860, one of the largest peacetime migration one of the largest peacetime migration in history. in history.
53,000 people traveled the Oregon Trail 53,000 people traveled the Oregon Trail during that same period.during that same period. http://ourworld.compuserve.com/homepages/trailofthe49ers/trail.htm
Overland Journey WestOverland Journey West California’s Anglo population in 1848-14,000 California’s Anglo population in 1848-14,000
1860-300,000. (opposite trend for Indians)1860-300,000. (opposite trend for Indians) The journey to California usually began at St, The journey to California usually began at St,
Joseph, Missouri, Independence, Missouri or Joseph, Missouri, Independence, Missouri or Council Bluffs, Iowa around the first of May. Council Bluffs, Iowa around the first of May.
If travelers left too early, the roads would be If travelers left too early, the roads would be too muddy, the rivers too full and the grass too too muddy, the rivers too full and the grass too immature; immature;
too late, the feed would be all eaten and too late, the feed would be all eaten and trampled, trampled,
there was danger of being trapped in the there was danger of being trapped in the Sierras by an early snowfall. Sierras by an early snowfall. Warren A. Beck Warren A. Beck The The California Experience: A Literary OdysseyCalifornia Experience: A Literary Odyssey 1976 Peregrine Smith pg 1976 Peregrine Smith pg 7272
What Group of Pioneers Were What Group of Pioneers Were Trapped in the Sierra Nevada’s in Trapped in the Sierra Nevada’s in
the Winter of 1846-1847?the Winter of 1846-1847? Donner Party (The same winter of the Bear Flag Donner Party (The same winter of the Bear Flag
Revolt and Mexican War)Revolt and Mexican War) The Donner party were using heavy wagons, The Donner party were using heavy wagons,
leadership indecision, uncooperative members, and leadership indecision, uncooperative members, and choosing the wrong advice. Purchased Hasting’s choosing the wrong advice. Purchased Hasting’s book. book.
The rule was, due to snow fall it is safe to, The rule was, due to snow fall it is safe to, be over be over the Sierras no later than October 1.the Sierras no later than October 1.
They left Independence, Missouri on May 12, 1846. They left Independence, Missouri on May 12, 1846. That meant they had 141 days to go about 2200 That meant they had 141 days to go about 2200 miles. Must average 15.6 miles per day to miles. Must average 15.6 miles per day to make it make it overover by October 1, 1846. by October 1, 1846.
Unfortunately, the Donner party averaged 12.9 Unfortunately, the Donner party averaged 12.9 miles per day and miles per day and made it to Donner Lake on made it to Donner Lake on October 29, 1846October 29, 1846. Snow fell and fell and fell…. Snow fell and fell and fell…
Overland Emigrant Trails: 1846 Donner Party took the low road (southern) :
Hastings Cut-off
St. Joseph
Independence
Council BluffsDonner Party Trail
Conventional Trail
Salt Lake City settled in 1846
Fort BridgerSutter’s Fort
CALIFORNIAMISSOURI
KANSAS
COLORADOUTAH
NEVADAIOWA
NEBRASKA
SOUTHDAKOTA
NORTHDAKOTA
WYOMING
IDAHO
MONTANAOREGON
WASHINGTON
Fort Hall
October 29, 1846 May 12, May 12,
18461846
Mormon’s leave Nauvoo, Illinois toward Salt Lake City - February 4, 1846
Donner Party 1846 Shorter Distance / Longer Donner Party 1846 Shorter Distance / Longer Time Due to Difficult Wagon TerrainTime Due to Difficult Wagon Terrain
Hastings Cut-off
Snow depth was 22
feet that
winter
Donner Lake location Donner Lake location
.
California Early Gold HistoryCalifornia Early Gold History Gold mining was done by Spaniards as Gold mining was done by Spaniards as
early as 1780-81 in the Cargo Muchacho early as 1780-81 in the Cargo Muchacho Mountains, in Southern California. Mountains, in Southern California. Later, mining was resumed under Later, mining was resumed under Mexican rule. Mexican rule.
The Cargo Muchacho District received The Cargo Muchacho District received it's name of Cargo Muchacho, or it's name of Cargo Muchacho, or “Loaded Boy” when two young Mexican “Loaded Boy” when two young Mexican boys came into camp one evening with boys came into camp one evening with their shirts loaded with gold. their shirts loaded with gold.
http://www.goldmaps.com/calif/http://www.goldmaps.com/calif/california_gold_mines_1.htmcalifornia_gold_mines_1.htm
Cargo Cargo MuchachoMuchacho
First recorded gold finding in California 1780-1781
California Gold HistoryCalifornia Gold History 1842: Placer gold (surface gold) was discovered by 1842: Placer gold (surface gold) was discovered by
Francisco Lopez (near Magic Mountain in Southern Francisco Lopez (near Magic Mountain in Southern California Newhall) in Placerita Canyon. First California Newhall) in Placerita Canyon. First commercial gold mining in California. From 1842 to commercial gold mining in California. From 1842 to 1847, miners culled some 1,300 pounds of gold from 1847, miners culled some 1,300 pounds of gold from Placerita.Placerita. Leon WordenLeon Worden Some history texts need re-writingSome history texts need re-writing, The Signal paper January 24, 1996, The Signal paper January 24, 1996
Spring 1848, Lt. William Tecumseh Sherman (Later Spring 1848, Lt. William Tecumseh Sherman (Later Northern Civil War General) Chapter II memoirs when Northern Civil War General) Chapter II memoirs when he was stationed at Monterey CA in the office of the 5he was stationed at Monterey CA in the office of the 5thth California Military Governor Colonel Richard Barnes California Military Governor Colonel Richard Barnes Mason (1847-1849). Mason (1847-1849). “Two men came with a letter “Two men came with a letter containing a small piece of gold from Sutter’s Mill. Still, containing a small piece of gold from Sutter’s Mill. Still, we attached little importance to the fact, we attached little importance to the fact, for gold was for gold was known to exist at San Fernando (Placerita known to exist at San Fernando (Placerita Canyon),Canyon), at the south, and yet was not considered of at the south, and yet was not considered of much value.”much value.” http://www.militarymuseum.org/sherman4.htmlhttp://www.militarymuseum.org/sherman4.html
Placerita Canyon. Placerita Canyon. First commercial gold First commercial gold mining California. mining California. From 1842 to 1847 From 1842 to 1847 US-Mexican War 1846-1848
California History 1848California History 1848 January 24January 24th:th: Gold was discovered at Coloma, Gold was discovered at Coloma,
California 8 miles north of Placerville on the California 8 miles north of Placerville on the South Fork of the American River.South Fork of the American River.
To put the California gold discovery in world To put the California gold discovery in world history perspective; In 1847 the total world history perspective; In 1847 the total world supply of gold was 75 tons. The California gold supply of gold was 75 tons. The California gold production 1851 alone was 77 tons and in 1853 production 1851 alone was 77 tons and in 1853 (at the peak of production) was 93 tons. (at the peak of production) was 93 tons. • The Great American Gold Rush: Timeline, pictures and history Francis The Great American Gold Rush: Timeline, pictures and history Francis
F. Steen, Communications Studies, University of California Los Angeles F. Steen, Communications Studies, University of California Los Angeles web site.web site.
Sutter’s Mill shut down in 1852
California History 1848California History 1848 Feb 2: Treaty of Guadalupe Hidalgo. Official Feb 2: Treaty of Guadalupe Hidalgo. Official
document to end the Mexican war, document to end the Mexican war, $15,000,000 payment for the property was $15,000,000 payment for the property was signed giving United States Title to signed giving United States Title to California, Colorado, Utah Territory California, Colorado, Utah Territory (included Nevada), Arizona, New Mexico (included Nevada), Arizona, New Mexico and Texas. and Texas.
The Treaty was officially ratified by the The Treaty was officially ratified by the United States government May 30, 1848. United States government May 30, 1848.
New problem, which states are to be slave New problem, which states are to be slave or free to keep voting balance in the or free to keep voting balance in the Senate equal?Senate equal?• The Mexican War David Saville Muzzy, Ph.D. Barnard College, The Mexican War David Saville Muzzy, Ph.D. Barnard College,
Columbia University, New York 1911 American HistoryColumbia University, New York 1911 American History
Who Were the 49er’s?Who Were the 49er’s? Placer Gold Placer Gold
prospectorsprospectors Oro is gold the Oro is gold the
element/metal.element/metal. Dorado is gold the Dorado is gold the
color (or golden). color (or golden).
California Gold RushCalifornia Gold Rush December 1848 President James Polk – December 1848 President James Polk –
“The Gold Rush in California was genuine.”“The Gold Rush in California was genuine.” Horace Greeley reported: “California Horace Greeley reported: “California
Fever” New York Tribune.Fever” New York Tribune. California's largest gold nugget, was found California's largest gold nugget, was found
at Carson Hill in Calaveras County in 1854 at Carson Hill in Calaveras County in 1854 above the Stanislaus River. It weighed above the Stanislaus River. It weighed (160) 195 pounds and was valued at (160) 195 pounds and was valued at $43,534 in the currency of the day.$43,534 in the currency of the day.http://comspark.com/chronicles/fastfacts.shtml http://www.historichwy49.com/goldfact.htmlhttp://www.historichwy49.com/goldfact.html
Gold Fever StoriesGold Fever Stories The lawyer abandoned his client. The farmer his fields, The lawyer abandoned his client. The farmer his fields,
the mate his vessel – 600 vessels abandoned in San the mate his vessel – 600 vessels abandoned in San Francisco Bay. The California Army Lt. William Tecumseh Francisco Bay. The California Army Lt. William Tecumseh Sherman lost Army forces – all caught up with the Sherman lost Army forces – all caught up with the excitement- all anxious to see for themselves. excitement- all anxious to see for themselves.
A servant returned in a few weeks with over $2000. A servant returned in a few weeks with over $2000. Four men at the Feather River diggings collected more Four men at the Feather River diggings collected more
than $75,000 in a few weeks. than $75,000 in a few weeks. A 14 year old boy cleared more than $34,000 in less A 14 year old boy cleared more than $34,000 in less
than two months. than two months. Two men took $1,000 in one day. Two men took $1,000 in one day. A little girl found a stone almost of pure gold weighing 7 A little girl found a stone almost of pure gold weighing 7
pounds. pounds. Military Governor Richard Mason reported to his Military Governor Richard Mason reported to his
superiors in mid-August 1848 he had first-hand superiors in mid-August 1848 he had first-hand knowledge placers were producing $30,000 to $40,000 knowledge placers were producing $30,000 to $40,000 per day. per day. Beck Williams Beck Williams California: A History of the Golden StateCalifornia: A History of the Golden State 1972 1972 Doubleday and Co. Inc. Page 124Doubleday and Co. Inc. Page 124
Comparison of land based Emigration to Oregon (blue) and California Comparison of land based Emigration to Oregon (blue) and California (burgundy) between 1840 and 1860. The graph in the exhibit has been (burgundy) between 1840 and 1860. The graph in the exhibit has been
reformatted to better fit the graphic design of the exhibit reformatted to better fit the graphic design of the exhibit http://www.fs.fed.us/r5/tahoe/documents/big_bend/emigrant_tr.htmhttp://www.fs.fed.us/r5/tahoe/documents/big_bend/emigrant_tr.htm
1840 1850 1860 Gold rush
California 1849 Gold and Silver Nevada 1859
California gold production: 1849-today
Hard Road West, 2007, Figure 13.6, p. 267
http://ourworld.compuserve.com/
homepages/trailofthe49ers/sea.htm
San Francisco 1850
During the Gold Rush of 1849 and 1850s there were no railroads, airplanes, or During the Gold Rush of 1849 and 1850s there were no railroads, airplanes, or automobiles. The fastest mode of transportation to the first stop for the gold fields, automobiles. The fastest mode of transportation to the first stop for the gold fields, San Francisco, was aboard a vessel. By the summer of 1850, over 500 vessels were San Francisco, was aboard a vessel. By the summer of 1850, over 500 vessels were recorded as being anchored in the vicinity of Yerba Buena Cove. After they had recorded as being anchored in the vicinity of Yerba Buena Cove. After they had arrived, whole crews abandoned their ships, along with the passengers, to make their arrived, whole crews abandoned their ships, along with the passengers, to make their way up to the gold fields. Many of the vessels were eventually left to rot, others were way up to the gold fields. Many of the vessels were eventually left to rot, others were eventually used for such purposes as storeships, saloons, hotels, jails, and some were eventually used for such purposes as storeships, saloons, hotels, jails, and some were sunk purposefully to secure water lot titles (property that was originally underwater). sunk purposefully to secure water lot titles (property that was originally underwater). As wood was scarce at the time, due to the many fires that swept the city and the As wood was scarce at the time, due to the many fires that swept the city and the increasing need for building material, many of the vessels were also broken up for increasing need for building material, many of the vessels were also broken up for their timber as well as other parts such as the metal plating. their timber as well as other parts such as the metal plating.
By 1851, the wharves had extended out into the cove and numerous buildings had By 1851, the wharves had extended out into the cove and numerous buildings had been erected on piles near them. Over the next two decades, under various been erected on piles near them. Over the next two decades, under various waterfront extension bills, Yerba Buena Cove was filled with sand from the downtown waterfront extension bills, Yerba Buena Cove was filled with sand from the downtown area. According to Bancroft, a local historian, "As late as Jan '57 old hulks still area. According to Bancroft, a local historian, "As late as Jan '57 old hulks still obstructed the harbor while others had been overtaken by the bayward march of the obstructed the harbor while others had been overtaken by the bayward march of the city front and formed basements or cellars to tenements built on their decks. Even city front and formed basements or cellars to tenements built on their decks. Even now [1888] remains of the vessels are found under the filled foundations of houses." now [1888] remains of the vessels are found under the filled foundations of houses." The cove was eventually enclosed by a seawall which was built from 1867 to 1869, The cove was eventually enclosed by a seawall which was built from 1867 to 1869, and which followed roughly along the same path as The Embarcadero. and which followed roughly along the same path as The Embarcadero. http://www.sfgenealogy.com/sf/history/hgshp1.htmhttp://www.sfgenealogy.com/sf/history/hgshp1.htm
1850 Buried Ships in San 1850 Buried Ships in San FranciscoFrancisco
San Francisco Chronicle 9/9/2005 San Francisco Chronicle 9/9/2005 “The “The bones of the old ship were discovered last bones of the old ship were discovered last week 20 feet below Folsom Street near week 20 feet below Folsom Street near Spear Street, the site of a 650-unit Spear Street, the site of a 650-unit building now under construction. Passers-building now under construction. Passers-by on Folsom Street could see the stern by on Folsom Street could see the stern section of a ship, lying on its side. The ship section of a ship, lying on its side. The ship was about 125 feet long, built of thick was about 125 feet long, built of thick wooden timbers, and had a rudder about 6 wooden timbers, and had a rudder about 6 feet high.”feet high.”
There is a difference between money made and money kept. There is a difference between money made and money kept. Inflation, usury and profiteering was rampant. Inflation for needed Inflation, usury and profiteering was rampant. Inflation for needed goods in 1849:goods in 1849:
Bacon $2 pound, shirts $30. Bacon $2 pound, shirts $30. Lavender Lavender California A bicentennial California A bicentennial HistoryHistory Norton 1976 pg 55 Norton 1976 pg 55
Flour $800/barrel, whisky $100 gallon. Flour $800/barrel, whisky $100 gallon. Hutchinson Hutchinson California The California The Golden Shore by the Sundown SeaGolden Shore by the Sundown Sea Star 1984 pg 88 Star 1984 pg 88
Bankers and merchants kept most of the money. Bankers and merchants kept most of the money. Charles Crocker, Collis Huntington, Mark Hopkins, Leland Stanford Charles Crocker, Collis Huntington, Mark Hopkins, Leland Stanford
were merchants first.were merchants first. Auto manufacturer Studebaker started as a wagon maker in Auto manufacturer Studebaker started as a wagon maker in
Placerville CA.Placerville CA. Jacob Davis of Reno NV inventor copper rivets to secure denim Jacob Davis of Reno NV inventor copper rivets to secure denim
fabric.fabric. Levi Strauss was a partner and wholesaler. Levi Strauss was a partner and wholesaler. H. DeWitt H. DeWitt California Civilization: an interpretationCalifornia Civilization: an interpretation Kendall/Hunt Pub 1979 Kendall/Hunt Pub 1979
Henry Wells and William Fargo offered miners secure, honest Henry Wells and William Fargo offered miners secure, honest banking services in their company, Wells, Fargo & Co.banking services in their company, Wells, Fargo & Co.
Pope Talbot Inc. Lumber CompanyPope Talbot Inc. Lumber Company
Did the Miners Come Out on Top Financially From Did the Miners Come Out on Top Financially From the Largest Gold Find in the World at That Time?the Largest Gold Find in the World at That Time?
California History 1849California History 1849 1849 October 13: Constitution of the State of California.1849 October 13: Constitution of the State of California.
“Article 1 Declaration of Rights Sec 1. All men are by nature “Article 1 Declaration of Rights Sec 1. All men are by nature free and independentfree and independent,…, Article 12 BoundaryArticle 12 Boundary: The The boundary of the State of California shall be as follows: boundary of the State of California shall be as follows: Commencing at this point of intersection of 42nd degree of Commencing at this point of intersection of 42nd degree of north latitude with the 120th degree of longitude west north latitude with the 120th degree of longitude west (Northeast corner of California/Oregon border) from (Northeast corner of California/Oregon border) from Greenwich, England. (a suburb of London, England)Greenwich, England. (a suburb of London, England) Running South on the line of said 120th degree of west Running South on the line of said 120th degree of west longitude until it intersects with the 39th degree of north longitude until it intersects with the 39th degree of north latitude (unknown at the time the point is in Lake Tahoe); latitude (unknown at the time the point is in Lake Tahoe); thence running in a straight line in a South easterly thence running in a straight line in a South easterly direction to the River Colorado, at a point where it direction to the River Colorado, at a point where it intersects the 35th degree of north latitudeintersects the 35th degree of north latitude; thence down the middle of the channel of said river, to the boundary line the middle of the channel of said river, to the boundary line between the United Sates and Mexico, as established the between the United Sates and Mexico, as established the Treaty of May 30th, 1848; thence running west and along Treaty of May 30th, 1848; thence running west and along said boundary line to the Pacific Ocean. Also all the islands, said boundary line to the Pacific Ocean. Also all the islands, harbors and bays along adjacent to the Pacific Coast.” harbors and bays along adjacent to the Pacific Coast.” James Jones state delegate recommendation.James Jones state delegate recommendation.
John C. Fremont became United States Senator representing John C. Fremont became United States Senator representing California.`California.`
1848 Fremont 1201848 Fremont 120ºº longitude line longitude line
120
120
42
39
35
La titud e
La titud e
La titud e
Lo ng itud e
Lo ng itud e
Ta ho e
Colorado River
1860 H.A. Higley Survey party corrected the Fremont 120º longitude line
Gold in Tahoe? Gold in Tahoe? LandauerLandauer
A 1853 gold strike was reported in Lake Valley. A 1853 gold strike was reported in Lake Valley. Placerville Herald September 24, 1853Placerville Herald September 24, 1853
““The discovery has been made. It is a fixed fact The discovery has been made. It is a fixed fact and mines are now realizing from five to seven and mines are now realizing from five to seven dollars per day to the man.” The report was dollars per day to the man.” The report was given possibly due to Martin Smith (first known given possibly due to Martin Smith (first known year-round European resident in Tahoe.) year-round European resident in Tahoe.)
1863 Centerville near Tahoe City had a strike 1863 Centerville near Tahoe City had a strike that petered out after a short time. that petered out after a short time. Landauer pg 43Landauer pg 43
Tahoe was little affected by the Gold Rush Tahoe was little affected by the Gold Rush (because there was no gold) but the Silver Rush (because there was no gold) but the Silver Rush made drastic changes. made drastic changes.
Gold Close to Tahoe Gold Close to Tahoe Near Squaw Valley Near Squaw Valley
August 1863 August 1863 KnoxvilleKnoxville ClaravilleClaraville Between the two mines Between the two mines
600 miners in six weeks.600 miners in six weeks. Some stayed to form Some stayed to form
Tahoe City.Tahoe City. E.B Scott E.B Scott The Saga of Lake TahoeThe Saga of Lake Tahoe
Sierra Tahoe Publishing 1960 pg 7Sierra Tahoe Publishing 1960 pg 7 Red, White and Blue Red, White and Blue
mining district. Mt Pluto mining district. Mt Pluto and Juniper Creek.and Juniper Creek.
Noonchester MineNoonchester Mine
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To Reno
To Carson City
8989
8928
28
431
50
207
Lake Tahoe
Knoxville
Claraville
Mt Pluto Juniper creek
Red, White and Blue Mining District
Noonchester Mine
Lake Tahoe North Shore Gold RushLake Tahoe North Shore Gold Rush Prospectors thought they had found gold on the Prospectors thought they had found gold on the
Middle Fork of Martis Creek. Called the Red, Middle Fork of Martis Creek. Called the Red, White, and Blue Mining District. They were White, and Blue Mining District. They were looking for quartz ledges laced with silver and looking for quartz ledges laced with silver and gold.gold.
They were discovered by the California - Nevada They were discovered by the California - Nevada boundary survey crew of 1863 by California. boundary survey crew of 1863 by California.
In May of 1863 the survey party had started work In May of 1863 the survey party had started work at Lake Tahoe and was working north towards the at Lake Tahoe and was working north towards the Oregon border. Two unnamed survey members Oregon border. Two unnamed survey members found the promising ledges, deserted the survey found the promising ledges, deserted the survey party, and started mining operations. By July the party, and started mining operations. By July the boom was in full swing. boom was in full swing. www.truckeehistory.tripod.comwww.truckeehistory.tripod.com
Tahoe GoldTahoe Gold Prospectors dug 364 foot long tunnel of Juniper Prospectors dug 364 foot long tunnel of Juniper
Creek. Creek. Frank Titus as "The Lost Dutchman's Mine", Frank Titus as "The Lost Dutchman's Mine",
was located on the north side of Mount Pluto. was located on the north side of Mount Pluto. Quartz mines were later located above Quartz mines were later located above Brockway Hot Springs as well. Brockway Hot Springs as well.
The end came quickly in September. The quartz The end came quickly in September. The quartz ore was not proving to match the assay values. ore was not proving to match the assay values.
A rumor of a new, more valuable gold strike in A rumor of a new, more valuable gold strike in the Reese River country of Nevada quickly the Reese River country of Nevada quickly spread among the prospectors of the Red, spread among the prospectors of the Red, White, Blue District and the area emptied.White, Blue District and the area emptied. www.truckeehistory.tripod.comwww.truckeehistory.tripod.com
Middle M
artis
CreekMt
Pluto
Northstar Ski Resort
Red, White and Blue Mining District
Brockway Springs
Noonchester MineNoonchester Mine The Noonchester Mine site is on the McKinney The Noonchester Mine site is on the McKinney
Rubicon Springs Road. It was established by Rubicon Springs Road. It was established by Londen Lee Noonchester. Londen Lee Noonchester.
In 1939 he discovered the gold, but delayed In 1939 he discovered the gold, but delayed operation because of WWII until the mid 40’s. operation because of WWII until the mid 40’s. The value of the find based on assays, was from The value of the find based on assays, was from $18 - $27 million. They planned to expand to $18 - $27 million. They planned to expand to 300 men milling 1,000 tons of ore daily. 300 men milling 1,000 tons of ore daily.
They formed the "Lake Tahoe Gold Mining They formed the "Lake Tahoe Gold Mining Company" with 1 million shares at $1 par value. Company" with 1 million shares at $1 par value.
The ore turned out to be such a poor grade that The ore turned out to be such a poor grade that it was not possible to make a profit and it was it was not possible to make a profit and it was abandoned. abandoned. http://us.geocities.com/dtmcbride/tahoe/noonch.htmlhttp://us.geocities.com/dtmcbride/tahoe/noonch.html
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To Reno
To Carson City
8989
8928
28
431
50
207
Noonchester MineNoonchester Mine
One Minute ReviewOne Minute Review What was the most useful or What was the most useful or
meaningful thing you learned during meaningful thing you learned during this session?this session?
What question(s) remain upper-most What question(s) remain upper-most in your mind as we end this session?in your mind as we end this session?
Summary and Quiz QuestionsSummary and Quiz Questions Chapter 4 California Gold Rush Chapter 4 California Gold Rush
18491849 Next Week #3Next Week #3 Chapter Five - Over Land TrailChapter Five - Over Land Trail Chapter Six - Lust for SilverChapter Six - Lust for Silver