In January 1848, while constructing a lumber mill to supply timber for Sutter’s Fort, James Marshall spotted a shiny piece of metal in the canal underneath the mill.
Having never seen raw gold before, Marshall was unsure if it was actually gold. He knew the only person who had seen raw gold in the field before was the camp’s only woman: Jennie Wimmer.
That's a really interesting story. I'd never heard of Jennie Wimmer before.
ReplyDeleteRunning a boarding house was a fairly common way for women to make a living during the gold rush. My bride's great-grandmother ran one in Michigan Bluff after coming to California from Ohio in 1852. They were also referred to as hotels, even though they were often just tents.
Her name was familiar but I didn't know what part she played. I may have heard of her when I was checking out the historical site quite a few years ago.
DeleteThat was a good story.
ReplyDeleteReally interesting story, thanks!
ReplyDelete