Guidebook
NO. 168 OAK OF THE GOLDEN DREAM - 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.
Location
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
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CHL #168 - Oak of the Golden Dream
CHL #168 Oak of the Golden Dream State Plaque
CHL #168 Oak of the Golden Dream Private Plaque