The Gem of the Southern Mines came to be in March 1850 when two brothers named Hildreth, waiting out a storm, tried their luck "one more time" and discovered gold nuggets weighing over one pound each!

Formally named COLUMBIA after Columbus, just weeks later, on April 29, 1850, our town has survived. It never turned into a ghost.

The word spread and soon the area numbered some 5000 people. A town was born. $87,000,000 in gold is said to have been extracted from Columbia.

The once lusty and exhilerating city has been a State Historical Park since 1945, and is probably the best preserved goldrush town in the central Sierra foothills. Its' popularity brings visitors from near and far to experience a glimpse of the past and a taste of life in the Old West.

The ever-so-friendly folks here in Columbia invite you to experience what we have lovingly come to call home. ENJOY!

(Indoor plumbing and electricity now available at most facilities for your convenience, exceptions will be noted)