The Dogtown Nugget Discovery Site
In 1859, a massive 54-pound gold nugget was found in the Feather River canyon near Magalia, then known as Dogtown. It was the largest nugget found in California at the time. The surrounding ravines and gulches were heavily mined, but because of the steep terrain, many pockets of gold-bearing gravel were missed.
Field Research Notes
This area is bordered by the Plumas National Forest. Mineral panning with hand tools is permitted on public lands not covered by active mining claims. Check the BLM ML-System to make sure you do not claim-jump.
Recommended Gear
Crevice Tools, Gold Pan, BLM Claim Map App, Sluice Box
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Site of New Albion at Drake's Cove
Drake's Cove at Point Reyes is the officially recognized Site of New Albion, where Francis Drake's expedition landed in 1579, repaired the Golden Hind, met Coast Miwok people, and reportedly erected the original brass.