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Calaveras Chronicles

Unearthing California's Golden Legacy: A scholarly exploration into the rich history, unique geography, and vibrant communities of Calaveras County, from Gold Rush lore to modern demographics and governance.

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County Overview

Location and Identity

Calaveras County, officially the County of Calaveras, is situated within both the Gold Country and High Sierra regions of California. Established as one of California's original counties in 1850, it holds a significant place in the state's historical narrative. The county seat is San Andreas, and Angels Camp stands as its sole incorporated city.

Etymological Roots

The name "Calaveras" originates from the Spanish word for "skulls." This evocative name is attributed to the Calaveras River, along whose banks Spanish explorer Captain Gabriel Moraga reportedly discovered numerous Native American skulls during his expeditions between 1806 and 1808.[6] These remains were believed to be the result of famine, tribal conflicts over resources, or, more plausibly, European epidemic diseases introduced through interactions with coastal mission tribes. An independent discovery of a large quantity of skulls and bones along a riverbed in 1836 by John Marsh and Jose Noriega further solidified the river's grim moniker.[9][10][11]

Literary and Cultural Significance

Calaveras County gained international recognition through Mark Twain's famous short story, "The Celebrated Jumping Frog of Calaveras County." Twain spent 88 days in the county in 1865, where he heard the tale at the Angel Hotel, a narrative that subsequently launched his illustrious career and firmly placed Calaveras County on the global map.[12] This literary connection is celebrated annually with the Calaveras County Fair and Jumping Frog Jubilee, a contest that commemorates each year's winner with a brass plaque on the "Frog Hop of Fame" sidewalk in Historic Angels Camp.

Historical Trajectories

Formation and Evolution

Calaveras County was established on February 18, 1850, as one of California's original 27 counties upon its admission to the Union. Over time, its territorial boundaries were adjusted, with portions reassigned to Amador County in 1854 and Alpine County in 1864.[1] This early period of redefinition reflects the dynamic growth and administrative challenges of the burgeoning state.

The Gold Rush Era

Gold prospecting commenced in Calaveras County in late 1848, notably with the establishment of a camp by Henry Angel, which evolved into Angels Camp. Initially, placer mining was prevalent, but the discovery of an extensive gold-bearing quartz vein, part of the region's famed Mother Lode, by the Winter brothers in the mid-1850s transformed the area. This led to the development of a permanent town and the operation of five major mines: the Stickle, Utica, Lightner, Angels, and Sultana. These mines reached their peak production in the 1880s and 1890s, collectively yielding over $20 million in gold through extensive hard rock mining operations.[13]

Mineralogical Discoveries

The county is also notable for a significant mineralogical discovery. In 1861, the uncommon gold telluride mineral, calaverite, was first identified and obtained from the Stanislaus Mine near Carson Hill, Angels Camp. Chemist and mineralogist Frederick Augustus Genth formally reported it as a new gold mineral in 1868, naming it after its county of origin.[14][15][16]

Natural Wonders and Tourism

Beyond its mining heritage, Calaveras County is home to significant natural attractions. Calaveras Big Trees State Park, a preserve of majestic giant sequoia trees, is a prominent feature. The discovery of these giant sequoias in 1852 by trapper Augustus T. Dowd, particularly the "Discovery Tree," generated worldwide sensation and established the area as one of the county's earliest tourist destinations.

A Note on Public Health

In 2015, Calaveras County recorded a notably high rate of suicide deaths, at 49.1 per 100,000 people, which was the highest in the United States for that year.[8] This statistic highlights a critical public health challenge that warrants ongoing attention and intervention.

Geographical Landscape

Topography and Area

Calaveras County spans a total area of 1,037 square miles (2,690 km2), with approximately 1,020 square miles (2,600 km2) designated as land and 17 square miles (44 km2) as water, accounting for about 1.6% of its total area.[17] The county's diverse geography encompasses rolling hills, expansive valleys, and notable landmarks, reflecting its position within both the Gold Country and High Sierra regions.

Subterranean Wonders

A distinctive feature of Calaveras County's geology is its abundance of caverns. Prominent examples include Mercer Caverns, California Cavern, and Moaning Cavern, which have become national attractions drawing tourists from across the country. These subterranean formations offer unique geological insights and recreational opportunities.

Regional Connections

Calaveras County shares its borders with several other Californian counties, establishing key regional connections:

  • Amador County to the north
  • Alpine County to the northeast
  • Tuolumne County to the south
  • Stanislaus County to the southwest
  • San Joaquin County to the west

A portion of the Stanislaus National Forest also extends into Calaveras County, contributing to its natural protected areas and offering extensive recreational opportunities.

Population Dynamics

Population Overview

As of the 2020 census, Calaveras County had a total population of 45,292 individuals.[6] Projections for 2024 estimate a slight increase to 46,505 residents.[18] The population density is approximately 44 people per square mile (17 people/km2).

Historical Population of Calaveras County

Census Population %ยฑ
1850 16,884 โ€”
1860 16,299 โˆ’3.5%
1870 8,895 โˆ’45.4%
1880 9,094 2.2%
1890 8,882 โˆ’2.3%
1900 11,200 26.1%
1910 9,171 โˆ’18.1%
1920 6,183 โˆ’32.6%
1930 6,008 โˆ’2.8%
1940 8,221 36.8%
1950 9,902 20.4%
1960 10,289 3.9%
1970 13,585 32.0%
1980 20,710 52.4%
1990 31,998 54.5%
2000 40,554 26.7%
2010 45,578 12.4%
2020 45,292 โˆ’0.6%
2024 (est.) 46,505 2.7%

Source: U.S. Decennial Census, U.S. Census Bureau Estimates.[19][20][21][22][23][24]

Racial and Ethnic Composition

The demographic makeup of Calaveras County has seen shifts over recent decades. In 2020, the non-Hispanic White population constituted 76.54% of residents, a decrease from 93.05% in 1980. Concurrently, the Hispanic or Latino population (of any race) has grown significantly, from 4.40% in 1980 to 12.95% in 2020. Other racial categories, including Asian and Mixed Race/Multiracial, have also shown increases, reflecting broader demographic trends within California.[24][25][26][27]

Calaveras County, California โ€“ Racial and Ethnic Composition (1980-2020)

Note: The US Census treats Hispanic/Latino as an ethnic category. This table excludes Latinos from the racial categories and assigns them to a separate category. Hispanics/Latinos may be of any race.

Race / Ethnicity (NH = Non-Hispanic) Pop 1980 Pop 1990 Pop 2000 Pop 2010 Pop 2020 % 1980 % 1990 % 2000 % 2010 % 2020
White alone (NH) 19,271 29,288 35,465 38,074 34,668 93.05% 91.53% 87.45% 83.54% 76.54%
Black or African American alone (NH) 72 180 300 355 334 0.35% 0.56% 0.74% 0.78% 0.74%
Native American or Alaska Native alone (NH) 319 606 607 526 497 1.54% 1.89% 1.50% 1.15% 1.10%
Asian alone (NH) 73 187 322 529 706 0.35% 0.58% 0.79% 1.16% 1.56%
Native Hawaiian or other Pacific Islander alone (NH) x x 36 71 75 x x 0.09% 0.16% 0.17%
Other race alone (NH) 64 23 40 68 268 0.31% 0.07% 0.10% 0.15% 0.59%
Mixed race or Multiracial (NH) x x 1,019 1,252 2,879 x x 2.51% 2.75% 6.36%
Hispanic or Latino (any race) 911 1,714 2,765 4,703 5,865 4.40% 5.36% 6.82% 10.32% 12.95%
Total 20,710 31,998 40,554 45,578 45,292 100.00% 100.00% 100.00% 100.00% 100.00%

Economic Indicators (2011 Data)

In 2011, Calaveras County's economic profile included a per capita income of $28,667. The median household income stood at $55,256, while the median family income was $67,253.[28][29][30] These figures provide insight into the economic well-being of the county's residents during that period.

Economic Landscape

Major Employers

Calaveras County's economy is supported by a range of employers across various sectors. Key contributors to local employment include:

  • 250โ€“499 Employees:
    • Calaveras County Government
    • Forestry & Fire Protection
    • Mark Twain St. Joseph's Hospital
  • 100โ€“249 Employees:
    • Bret Harte Union High School
    • Ironstone Vineyards
    • Calaveras High School
    • Mark Twain Convalescent Hospital
    • Mountain Machinery[37]

These entities represent significant pillars of the county's economic activity, spanning public services, healthcare, education, and specialized industries like viticulture and machinery.

Thriving Industries

Beyond its historical gold mining, Calaveras County has cultivated a thriving wine-making industry, with Ironstone Vineyards being one of the largest wineries in the region. The county also benefits from mountain sports recreation and a vibrant performing arts scene, contributing to its diverse economic portfolio and attracting tourism.

Governance Structure

Board of Supervisors

Calaveras County operates under a Councilโ€“CAO (Chief Administrative Officer) form of government, overseen by a five-member Board of Supervisors. These supervisors are elected by district during the Consolidated Primary Election and serve four-year terms, ensuring local representation and accountability.[2]

Current Leadership

As of January 2023, the Board of Supervisors includes: Gary Tofanelli (District 1), Autumn Andahl (District 2), Martin Huberty (District 3), Amanda Folendorf (District 4), and Benjamin Stopper (District 5). Martin Huberty serves as the Chair of the board, with Benjamin Stopper as Vice Chair. Key appointed officials include Crista Voh Latta as the County Administrative Officer and Sarah Edwards as the County Counsel, both serving at the discretion of the Board of Supervisors.[3]

Political Landscape

Voter Registration

As of 2022, Calaveras County's eligible population for voting was 36,563, with 32,172 registered voters, representing 87.9% of the eligible population.[38] The county exhibits a notable preference for the Republican Party, with 40.6% of registered voters identifying as Republican, compared to 23.3% as Democratic. This results in a Democraticโ€“Republican spread of -17.3%.[38]

Calaveras County Voter Registration Statistics (2022)

Category Count Percentage of Eligible Population
Total eligible population 36,563 โ€”
Registered voters 32,172 87.9%
Democratic 8,529 23.3%
Republican 14,857 40.6%
Democraticโ€“Republican spread -6,328 -17.3%
American Independent 1,872 5.1%
Libertarian 610 1.6%
Green 159 0.4%
Peace and Freedom 129 0.3%
Unknown 120 0.3%
Other 304 0.8%
No party preference 5,592 15.2%

Presidential Election Trends

Calaveras County has historically leaned Republican in presidential elections. The last Democratic candidate to secure a majority in the county was Lyndon B. Johnson in 1964. While Bill Clinton narrowly lost the county by just 17 votes in 1992, Republican dominance has largely persisted. In 2020, Republicans garnered 60% of the vote, marking their highest share since 2004.

United States Presidential Election Results for Calaveras County, California

Year Republican No. Republican % Democratic No. Democratic % Third party(ies) No. Third party(ies) %
2024 16,625 62.78% 9,181 34.67% 674 2.55%
2020 16,518 60.57% 10,046 36.84% 708 2.60%
2016 13,511 57.42% 7,944 33.76% 2,076 8.82%
2012 12,365 56.56% 8,670 39.66% 827 3.78%
2008 12,835 54.80% 9,813 41.90% 773 3.30%
2004 13,601 60.87% 8,286 37.09% 456 2.04%
2000 10,599 56.15% 7,093 37.58% 1,184 6.27%
1996 8,279 48.12% 6,646 38.63% 2,281 13.26%
1992 6,006 35.35% 5,989 35.25% 4,996 29.40%
1988 7,640 56.28% 5,674 41.80% 260 1.92%
1984 7,632 64.26% 4,081 34.36% 164 1.38%
1980 6,054 58.92% 3,076 29.94% 1,145 11.14%
1976 3,695 49.08% 3,607 47.91% 226 3.00%
1972 4,119 60.76% 2,268 33.46% 392 5.78%
1968 3,042 52.16% 2,134 36.59% 656 11.25%
1964 2,244 41.58% 3,145 58.27% 8 0.15%
1960 2,820 52.60% 2,509 46.80% 32 0.60%
1956 2,843 57.91% 2,049 41.74% 17 0.35%
1952 3,112 61.65% 1,890 37.44% 46 0.91%
1948 1,888 46.77% 1,995 49.42% 154 3.81%
1944 1,455 43.19% 1,893 56.19% 21 0.62%
1940 1,649 40.39% 2,405 58.90% 29 0.71%
1936 960 27.16% 2,520 71.31% 54 1.53%
1932 754 29.01% 1,744 67.10% 101 3.89%
1928 1,262 53.79% 1,066 45.44% 18 0.77%
1924 872 39.44% 333 15.06% 1,006 45.50%
1920 1,480 63.96% 641 27.70% 193 8.34%
1916 1,175 40.91% 1,524 53.06% 173 6.02%
1912 5 0.16% 1,869 60.51% 1,215 39.33%
1908 1,323 55.54% 833 34.97% 226 9.49%
1904 1,571 58.75% 844 31.56% 259 9.69%
1900 1,600 54.59% 1,288 43.94% 43 1.47%
1896 1,541 49.92% 1,518 49.17% 28 0.91%
1892 1,355 49.69% 1,276 46.79% 96 3.52%

State and Federal Representation

Calaveras County is represented in both state and federal legislative bodies. Federally, it falls within California's 5th congressional district, currently represented by Republican Tom McClintock.[40] At the state level, the county is part of the 8th senatorial district, represented by Democrat Angelique Ashby,[41] and the 5th Assembly district, represented by Republican Joe Patterson.[42] This mixed representation reflects the diverse political leanings within the county and the broader state.

Crime Statistics

County-Wide Crime Rates (2011 Data)

In 2011, Calaveras County, with a population of 45,794, reported various crime incidents. The violent crime rate was 1.83 per 1,000 persons, encompassing homicides (0.02), forcible rapes (0.35), robberies (0.31), and aggravated assaults (1.16). Property crime was reported at a rate of 11.42 per 1,000 persons, including burglaries (6.20), larceny-thefts (8.84), and motor vehicle thefts (2.16). Arson incidents were minimal, at 0.17 per 1,000 persons.[43]

Calaveras County Population and Crime Rates (2011)

Category Incidents Rate per 1,000 persons
Population 45,794 โ€”
Violent crime 84 1.83
  Homicide 1 0.02
  Forcible rape 16 0.35
  Robbery 14 0.31
  Aggravated assault 53 1.16
Property crime 523 11.42
  Burglary 284 6.20
  Larceny-theft 405 8.84
  Motor vehicle theft 99 2.16
Arson 8 0.17

Angels Camp Crime Rates

For the City of Angels Camp, with a population of 3,826, specific crime rates were also reported. The violent crime rate stood at 3.66 per 1,000 persons (14 incidents), while the property crime rate was 22.48 per 1,000 persons (86 incidents).[44] These figures provide a localized perspective on criminal activity within the county's only incorporated city.

Transportation Network

Major Highways

Calaveras County is traversed by several key state routes that facilitate regional connectivity and access to its various communities and attractions:

  • State Route 4
  • State Route 12
  • State Route 26
  • State Route 49

These highways are vital arteries for both residents and visitors, connecting the county to the broader Californian road network.

Public Transportation

Public transportation services within Calaveras County are provided by Calaveras Connect. This service offers routes connecting Angels Camp, San Andreas, and other communities throughout the county. Additionally, intercounty connections are available, linking Calaveras County to Columbia in Tuolumne County and Jackson in Amador County, enhancing regional mobility.

Air Travel

For air travel and general aviation needs, Calaveras County is served by the Calaveras County Airport. This facility is conveniently located just southeast of San Andreas, providing an essential link for private and small commercial aircraft.

Communities & Districts

Incorporated City and CDPs

Calaveras County's urban and semi-urban landscape is primarily defined by its single incorporated city and numerous Census-designated places (CDPs). Angels Camp is the county's only incorporated city, serving as a central hub for commerce and culture. The county seat is San Andreas, which is a CDP.

Census-Designated Places (CDPs) in Calaveras County

  • Arnold
  • Avery
  • Campo Seco
  • Copperopolis
  • Dorrington
  • Douglas Flat
  • Forest Meadows
  • Glencoe
  • Hathaway Pines
  • Mokelumne Hill
  • Mountain Ranch
  • Murphys
  • Paloma
  • Rail Road Flat
  • Rancho Calaveras
  • San Andreas (county seat)
  • Sheep Ranch
  • Vallecito
  • Valley Springs
  • Wallace
  • West Point
  • Wilseyville

Other and Former Settlements

Beyond its officially recognized communities, Calaveras County is dotted with other smaller, unincorporated communities and holds the remnants of former settlements, many of which are echoes of its Gold Rush past.

Other Communities

  • Cave City
  • Sheep Ranch
  • Milton

Former Settlements

  • Camanche
  • Poverty Bar

Special Districts

Calaveras County is served by a variety of special districts, which are local government entities established to provide specific services within defined geographical areas. These districts play a crucial role in local governance and public service delivery.

Special Districts in Calaveras County

  • Altaville Cemetery District
  • Altaville-Melones Fire District
  • Angels Camp Fire District
  • Bret Harte Union High School District
  • Calaveras County Air Pollution Control District
  • Calaveras Unified School District
  • Central Calaveras Fire and Rescue Protection District
  • Copperopolis Fire Protection District
  • Ebbetts Pass Fire Protection District
  • Foothill Fire District
  • Jenny Lind Fire District
  • Mark Twain Health Care District
  • Mark Twain Union Elementary School District
  • Mokelumne Hill Fire District
  • Murphys Fire District
  • San Andreas Fire District
  • Vallecito Union Elementary School District
  • Valley Springs Public Utilities District
  • West Point Fire District.[45]

Population Ranking (2010 Census)

The population distribution across Calaveras County's various communities, based on the 2010 census, highlights the relative sizes of its cities and census-designated places. Rancho Calaveras was the most populous CDP, followed by Arnold and Angels Camp.

Population Ranking of Calaveras County Communities (2010 Census)

โ€  county seat

Rank City/Town/etc. Municipal type Population (2010 Census)
1 Rancho Calaveras CDP 5,325
2 Arnold CDP 3,843
3 Angels Camp City 3,836
4 Copperopolis CDP 3,671
5 Valley Springs CDP 3,553
6 โ€  San Andreas CDP 2,783
7 Murphys CDP 2,213
8 Mountain Ranch CDP 1,628
9 Forest Meadows CDP 1,249
10 West Point CDP 674
t-11 Avery CDP 646
t-11 Mokelumne Hill CDP 646
12 Dorrington CDP 609
13 Rail Road Flat CDP 475
14 Vallecito CDP 442
15 Wallace CDP 403

Source: 2010 United States Census.[46]

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References

References

  1.  Percentage of registered voters with respect to total population. Percentages of party members with respect to registered voters follow.
  2.  Lyman, George D. John Marsh, Pioneer: The Life Story of a Trail-blazer on Six Frontiers, pp. 207รขย€ย“208, The Chautauqua Press, Chautauqua, New York, 1931.
  3.  Winkley, John W., Dr. John Marsh: Wilderness Scout, pp. 54รขย€ย“5, The Parthenon Press, Nashville, Tennessee, 1962.
  4.  Thompson, Thomas Hinkley, and West, Albert Augustus. History of San Joaquin County, California, p. 13, 1879.
  5.  U.S. Census Bureau. American Community Survey, 2011 American Community Survey 5-Year Estimates, Table B02001. U.S. Census website . Retrieved October 26, 2013.
  6.  U.S. Census Bureau. American Community Survey, 2011 American Community Survey 5-Year Estimates, Table B03003. U.S. Census website . Retrieved October 26, 2013.
  7.  U.S. Census Bureau. American Community Survey, 2011 American Community Survey 5-Year Estimates, Table B19301. U.S. Census website . Retrieved October 21, 2013.
  8.  U.S. Census Bureau. American Community Survey, 2011 American Community Survey 5-Year Estimates, Table B19013. U.S. Census website . Retrieved October 21, 2013.
  9.  U.S. Census Bureau. American Community Survey, 2011 American Community Survey 5-Year Estimates, Table B19113. U.S. Census website . Retrieved October 21, 2013.
  10.  U.S. Census Bureau. American Community Survey, 2011 American Community Survey 5-Year Estimates. U.S. Census website . Retrieved October 21, 2013.
  11.  U.S. Census Bureau. American Community Survey, 2011 American Community Survey 5-Year Estimates, Table B01003. U.S. Census website . Retrieved October 21, 2013.
  12.  2010 Census
A full list of references for this article are available at the Calaveras County, California Wikipedia page

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