Historical Markers in Modoc County, California
Applegate Trail
Applegate Trail
Applegate Trail - Bloody Point
Applegate Trail - Davis Creek
Applegate Trail - Descent to Goose Lake
Applegate Trail - Descent to Lassen Creek
Applegate Trail - Fandango Pass Ascent
Applegate Trail - Fandango Pass Descent
Applegate Trail - New Road to Yreka
Applegate Trail - Pothole Spring
Applegate Trail - Through the Forest
Battle of Dry Lake Memorial
Burnett Cutoff
Burnett Cutoff - Across Barren Ground
Burnett Cutoff - At Klamath [Tule] Lake
Burnett Cutoff - Muddy Waters
Burnett Cutoff - Over a Prairie
Canbys Cross
Captain Jacks Stronghold
Chimney Rock
Cressler - Bonner Trading Post
Evans and Bailey Fight 1861
Lassen Trail - Conical Rocks
Lassen Trail - Foot Wear
Lassen Trail - Pit River
Lassen Trail - Pit River Canyon
Lassen Trail - Pit River Ford
Lassen Trail - Rattlesnake Butte
Raptors - Birds of Prey
Sacred Heart Catholic Church
South Road - Applegate Trail
South Road - Blazed Pine Tree
South Road - Devil's Garden
South Road - Fletcher Creek
South Road - McGinty Creek
The Applegate Trail
The Applegate-Lassen Trail
Tule Lake
Tule Lake Segregation Center
Warm Springs Indians
Willow Ranch
Working Farm Roots
About Modoc County
Modoc County Timeline
Modoc County, located in the northeastern corner of California, has a rich and diverse history that spans many centuries. The region has long been inhabited by the Native American Modoc tribe, known for their resilience and adaptability to the harsh environment. European explorers first ventured into the area in the early 1800s, with trappers and fur traders following soon after.
The discovery of gold in Northern California in the mid-19th century attracted miners to the Modoc County area, leading to the establishment of several mining camps and the rapid growth of settlements. In 1874, a conflict known as the Modoc War broke out between the Modoc tribe and the US Army. The Modoc people, led by Captain Jack, defended their ancestral lands for several months before they were eventually defeated, leading to the forced relocation of the tribe.
After the war, Modoc County went through a period of rapid development with the expansion of agriculture and the arrival of the railroad in the late 19th century. The county became a hub for cattle ranching and agriculture, a tradition that continues to this day. The establishment of the Modoc National Forest in 1904 and the Lava Beds National Monument in 1925 further contributed to the area's economic growth through tourism and outdoor recreation.
Modoc County has faced its fair share of challenges over the years, including wildfires and economic fluctuations. However, the region has maintained its unique cultural heritage and natural beauty, with a strong sense of community and pride in its history. Today, Modoc County offers visitors and residents alike a glimpse into its past, with museums, historical sites, and breathtaking landscapes that showcase the county's fascinating history.
The discovery of gold in Northern California in the mid-19th century attracted miners to the Modoc County area, leading to the establishment of several mining camps and the rapid growth of settlements. In 1874, a conflict known as the Modoc War broke out between the Modoc tribe and the US Army. The Modoc people, led by Captain Jack, defended their ancestral lands for several months before they were eventually defeated, leading to the forced relocation of the tribe.
After the war, Modoc County went through a period of rapid development with the expansion of agriculture and the arrival of the railroad in the late 19th century. The county became a hub for cattle ranching and agriculture, a tradition that continues to this day. The establishment of the Modoc National Forest in 1904 and the Lava Beds National Monument in 1925 further contributed to the area's economic growth through tourism and outdoor recreation.
Modoc County has faced its fair share of challenges over the years, including wildfires and economic fluctuations. However, the region has maintained its unique cultural heritage and natural beauty, with a strong sense of community and pride in its history. Today, Modoc County offers visitors and residents alike a glimpse into its past, with museums, historical sites, and breathtaking landscapes that showcase the county's fascinating history.
Modoc County Timeline
This timeline provides a glimpse into the major events and milestones that have shaped the history of Modoc County, California.
- 1874 - Modoc County established as California's newest county.
- 1876 - Modoc War, a conflict between Modoc tribe and US Army, takes place in Modoc County.
- 1880 - Modoc County courthouse built in Alturas, the county seat.
- 1933 - Modoc National Forest established in the county.
- 1941 - Tulelake-Butte Valley Fair first held in Modoc County.
- 1956 - Modoc County Historical Society founded to preserve the county's history.
- 1984 - Modoc County Historical Museum opens in Alturas.
- 2018 - Modoc County celebrates its 150th anniversary.