In the winter of 1848, John Sutter's long trusted employee James Marshall built a water powered sawmill 45 miles up the south fork of the American River at a place called Coloma. This mill's purpose was to produce the planks and beams that growing valley towns would need.

On the morning of January 24, 1848, James Marshall reached into the icy waters of the American River and found the first gold nugget. Needless to say, not much lumber was milled at Coloma as the announcement of gold set off a worldwide contagion known as "Gold Fever" in the foothills of the Sierra Nevada.

The discovery of gold not only changed history in California, but also was one of the most significant events in the history of our nation. For example, the gold rush created the largest peacetime migration in history. People from around the globe came to California in search of their dreams. By August of 1849, the City of Sacramento was born and seven months later, in March of 1850, the State of California incorporated Sacramento.

From 1999 through the year 2000 the City of Sacramento is celebrating its 150th anniversary with a number of special events, activities and programs. As the oldest incorporated city in California, not to mention its significance as the State Capital, Sacramento has enjoyed 150 years of history - rich in cultural, religious, ethnic and economic growth.

To share in the richness of our community, we have created the 150th anniversary web site to inform, educate and increase your awareness about Sacramento's golden treasured past, our present day accomplishments, and our bright future into the new millenium. Also, our web site will include important information about the special events that will recognize the City of Sacramento's birthday. So come along with us as we celebrate our anniversary!

If you would like to contact the City of Sacramento's 150th Anniversary Office, please contact:

Alan Tomiyama, Administrative Services Officer, 150th Anniversary Citywide Coordinator
1231 I Street, Room 302, Sacramento, CA 95814
(916) 264-8958
atomiyama@cityofsacramento.org