Downieville
Downieville was a major Gold Rush center that peaked at 5,000+ residents and was considered for stat
State: California
County: Sierra County
Founded: 1849-1850
Downieville was a major Gold Rush center that peaked at 5,000+ residents and was considered for state capital (finished 6th of 16 cities). Infamous for the 1851 mob lynching of Josefa—reputedly the only woman hanged in California. The 1885 gallows remain as a state landmark.
Timeline
- 1849 - Founding Major William Downie discovered gold and founded 'The Forks.'
- 1851 - Peak & Notoriety Population exceeded 5,000. On July 4th, mob lynched Josefa—reputedly only woman hanged in California.
- 1850 - Capital Bid Downieville finished 6th among 16 cities vying for state capital.
- 1852 - County Seat Became Sierra County seat—still holds that status.
- 1885 - Gallows Built Sheriff's gallows constructed. Used once for James O'Neill's execution, then stored in attic until 1927.
Plan Your Visit
Best Time: Summer or fall
Difficulty: Easy - mountain town
Time Needed: 2-3 hours
Tips
- Historic gallows are California Landmark #971
- Still the county seat
- Popular mountain biking destination
- Original Gold Rush buildings preserved
Quick Facts
- Considered for California state capital—finished 6th of 16 cities
- Site of Josefa's 1851 lynching—only woman reportedly hanged in California
- Gallows were stored in courthouse attic for 42 years before being re-erected
- A 25-pound gold nugget was found here in 1850
Location
Address: Downieville, Sierra County, California
Coordinates: 39.5596, -120.8272