China Camp
a.k.a. China Camp State Park
247 N. San Pedro Dr., San Rafael, CA Local significance of the district: Prehistoric; Commerce; Historic - Non-aboriginal; Exploration/settlement; Architecture; Social History
Listed in National Register of Historic Places in 1979.
About National Register Listings
The National Register of Historic Places is the official list of the Nation’s historic places worthy of preservation. Authorized by the National Historic Preservation Act of 1966, the National Park Service’s National Register of Historic Places is part of a national program to coordinate and support public and private efforts to identify, evaluate, and protect America’s historic and archeological resources.
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California was once a part of Mexico before it became a U.S. state. Mexico gained independence from Spain in 1821 and California became a Mexican territory. However, in 1846, the U.S. declared war on Mexico and after a brief conflict, California was ceded to the U.S. as a part of the Treaty of Guadalupe Hidalgo in 1848.
About Marin County
Marin County Timeline
Marin County, California, located just north of San Francisco, has a rich history dating back thousands of years. Before European settlement, the area was inhabited by the Coast Miwok and Southern Pomo Native American tribes. They developed a vibrant culture, engaging in activities like fishing, hunting, and gathering along the coastline and in the redwood forests.
In the late 18th century, the Spanish arrived, led by Juan Manuel de Ayala, who named the area Bahía de San Rafael. The Spanish established missions and ranches in the region, including the Mission San Rafael Arcángel, which was founded in 1817 and served as a crucial religious and agricultural center.
American settlement began with the arrival of John Reed, an Irish immigrant, in 1834. The Mexican-American War in the 1840s led to the transfer of California from Mexico to the United States. Marin County saw rapid growth during the California Gold Rush of 1849, as thousands of pioneers traveled through the area on their way to the gold fields, establishing small settlements and mining camps along the way.
After the Gold Rush subsided, Marin County transitioned into a primarily agricultural and pastoral region, known for its dairy farms and ranches. Over time, the construction of the Golden Gate Bridge in 1937 and the expansion of transportation infrastructure led to increased urbanization. Marin County became an attractive residential area for those seeking a suburban lifestyle with close proximity to San Francisco.
Today, Marin County is known for its beautiful natural landscapes, charming communities, and a deep commitment to environmental conservation. It is home to national parks, stunning coastal vistas, and a diverse population. The county has managed to preserve its unique history while embracing modern development, making it a place of great cultural and natural significance in California.
In the late 18th century, the Spanish arrived, led by Juan Manuel de Ayala, who named the area Bahía de San Rafael. The Spanish established missions and ranches in the region, including the Mission San Rafael Arcángel, which was founded in 1817 and served as a crucial religious and agricultural center.
American settlement began with the arrival of John Reed, an Irish immigrant, in 1834. The Mexican-American War in the 1840s led to the transfer of California from Mexico to the United States. Marin County saw rapid growth during the California Gold Rush of 1849, as thousands of pioneers traveled through the area on their way to the gold fields, establishing small settlements and mining camps along the way.
After the Gold Rush subsided, Marin County transitioned into a primarily agricultural and pastoral region, known for its dairy farms and ranches. Over time, the construction of the Golden Gate Bridge in 1937 and the expansion of transportation infrastructure led to increased urbanization. Marin County became an attractive residential area for those seeking a suburban lifestyle with close proximity to San Francisco.
Today, Marin County is known for its beautiful natural landscapes, charming communities, and a deep commitment to environmental conservation. It is home to national parks, stunning coastal vistas, and a diverse population. The county has managed to preserve its unique history while embracing modern development, making it a place of great cultural and natural significance in California.
Marin County Timeline
This timeline provides a concise overview of the key events in the history of Marin County, California.
- 1834 - The Mexican government grants the land now known as Marin County to John Reed, a San Francisco merchant.
- 1844 - Marin County is officially established as one of the 27 original counties of California.
- 1850s - The Gold Rush leads to a population boom in Marin County, with many gold seekers settling in the area.
- 1861 - The Marin County Civic Center is built in San Rafael, becoming the oldest continuously operated civic center in the state.
- 1868 - The first railroad connection is made to Marin County, increasing transportation options for residents.
- 1880s - San Rafael becomes the county seat, taking over from San Quentin.
- 1905 - The Golden Gate Ferry Company is established, providing transportation between Marin County and San Francisco.
- 1927 - The Golden Gate Bridge opens, connecting Marin County to San Francisco and increasing accessibility to the area.
- 1942 - During World War II, Marin County is home to the Marinship shipbuilding yard, contributing to the war effort.
- 1962 - Marin County is the birthplace of the environmental movement with the creation of the first Earth Day celebrated in San Rafael.
- 1972 - The Marin County Civic Center is designated as a National Historic Landmark.
- 1991 - The devastating Oakland Hills fire spreads into parts of Marin County, causing significant destruction.
- 2008 - Marin County is ranked as one of the wealthiest counties in the United States.