Melones, California, Calaveras County: Once a bustling mining town during the California Gold Rush, Melones is now a ghost town with remnants that echo its vibrant past. Below is detailed information about the town.
County: Calaveras County
Zip Code: Not available
Latitude / Longitude: 37.9772° N, 120.5349° W
Elevation: Approximately 1,115 feet (340 meters)
Time Zone: Pacific Time Zone (PT)
Established: 1850s
Disestablished: 1940s
Comments: Melones was established during the California Gold Rush, attracting prospectors and settlers keen to find fortune. The town thrived in the late 19th century due to its rich gold deposits.
However, the depletion of resources and the creation of the New Melones Dam in the 1970s led to the flooding of the original town site, contributing to its abandonment.
Remains: Few remains of the original town can be observed today, as much of it lies under the waters of the New Melones Lake. However, historical markers and some mining artifacts may still be found in the surrounding areas.
Current Status: Submerged under New Melones Lake, with limited access to any remaining structures or artifacts. The area is now primarily used for recreational purposes, including boating and fishing.
Remarks: Melones poignantly reminds us of the boom-and-bust cycles that characterized many towns during the Gold Rush. Though largely submerged, it continues to capture the imagination of history enthusiasts and adventurers drawn to its storied past.
