Historical Landmark

Description:
Francisco López made California's first authenticated gold discovery on March 9, 1842. While gathering wild onions near an oak tree in Placerita Canyon he found gold particles clinging to the roots of the bulbs. The San Fernando placers and nearby San Feliciano Canyon were worked by Sonoran miners using panning, sluicing and dry washing methods. Lopez's find predated James Marshall strike at Sutter's Mill by six years.

Registration Date: 3/6/1935

Location:
Newhall
County: Los Angeles

Directions:
Site: Placerita Canyon State and County Park, Placerita Canyon Rd, 4.6 mi NE of Newhall (Los Angeles)Plaque: SE corner I-5 and Lyons Ave, Newhall

Back   Return to Listed Resources Listing