Gold Hill
Before California
State: North Carolina
County: Rowan County
Founded: 1842
Abandoned: 1915
Peak Population: 3,000
Gold Hill was America's first significant gold rush town - 50 years before California. North Carolina was the nation's top gold producer until 1848. At its peak, 3,000 people mined the Piedmont hills. Today, a small village preserves the historic downtown.
First Gold Rush
America's first gold rush was in North Carolina, not California. Gold Hill became the state's most productive mine.
Preservation
The historic village has preserved buildings from the mining era. A museum tells the story of America's forgotten gold rush.
Timeline
- 1842 - Founded Major mining began
- 1860 - Peak 3,000 residents
- 1915 - Closed Last mines shut down
Plan Your Visit
Best Time: Year-round
Difficulty: Easy
Time Needed: 2 hours
Quick Facts
- America's first gold rush was here
- NC led gold production until California
- Historic village preserved
Location
Address: Gold Hill, North Carolina
Coordinates: 35.5125, -80.3322