The Event That Would Shape California's Origin
The original site of Sutter's mill.
Notice the American River in the background where Marshall found gold
- On January 24, 1848, while James Marshall and his crew were working on widening the tailrace for the new Sutter's Mill, Marshall noticed a few glimmers in the mud. Being acquainted with at least a scant idea of minerals, his interests were piqued. He scooped up the bright flakes and proceeded to pound them between two rocks. The interesting substance flattened, but didn't crumble.
- He showed the flakes to the rest of his crew, claiming it was gold. Known for some of his outrageous ideas, Marshall's statement was scoffed at by the rest of the crew.
- Later that night in the main eating house, Marshall again showed the flakes to the men. They subjected them to a few tests, after which they began to believe that for once Marshall may not have been off track. They boiled the gold in a kettle of the wife of a Mormon worker, Peter L. Wimmer. The gold didn't melt nor deform; rather, its color and luster were enhanced.
- The next morning, Marshall again searched in the tailrace. Again he found more gold. Beginning to see the opportunity he chanced upon, he began to regret informing the other workers. He set off to Sutter's Fort to inform his boss, John Sutter, of the news.
Recreation of Sutter's mill. After the construction was finished, the mill only lasted for a few more years.
