Columbia
California: The Golden Town
Locals dress in period costume
Summer is making its way back, and what better way to embrace California’s golden sunshine than with a scenic drive to Columbia? Located 125 miles from the Bay Area—about two hours and 24 minutes away—Columbia, California, is a living piece of history nestled in picturesque Tuolumne County, framed by the Stanislaus River.
Columbia’s beginnings trace back to the mid-1800s when gold was discovered in the Sierra Foothills, sparking the rapid growth of a bustling mining town. By 1852, Columbia boasted eight hotels, four banks, seventeen general stores, two firehouses, two bookstores, one newspaper, three churches, and more than forty drinking and gambling establishments. Between 1850 and the early 1900s, eager miners extracted an estimated $150 million worth of gold from the surrounding hills, fueling the town’s prosperity.
$150 million in gold
Over time, Columbia faced multiple devastating fires but managed to rebuild and survive. Unlike many other mining towns, it never became a ghost town. In 1945, California preserved its remaining historical buildings by establishing Columbia State Historic Park, ensuring that the town's rich past remained accessible for generations to come.
If you have an appreciation for early California history, Columbia is a must-see destination. Walking through this town feels like stepping back in time, with locals dressed in period costumes, helping to recreate the vibrant world of the Gold Rush era. Don’t miss the opportunity to experience this fascinating glimpse into California’s past!