  As the largest of California's original 27 counties, Mariposa County is known as the "Mother of Counties." It is home to the first hard rock gold mine in California, and one of the highest grades of crystalline gold found anywhere in the world is still mined here. Today visitors can experience a sense of what life was like during the gold rush by visiting our museums and history centers. The Mariposa and Coulterville museums have stunning exhibits that depict how the miners lived during history's largest migration. There are several small towns that can be visited where historic buildings still have steel shutters and doors. In Hornitos, the small town square seems to echo with voices of the past. Famous for being a favorite hangout for Joaquin Murieta (romanticized in many countries as the Robinhood of the West), you'll feel like you've stepped back in time as you walk through the historic streets. Coulterville is one of the most unspoiled gold rush era towns any where in California. Besides the compelling museum and Historic Register downtown area, Coulterville also offers a tour of old-fashioned pioneer roses. Other attractions include the Mariposa County Courthouse which is the oldest courthouse still in continuous use west of the Rockies and the Mariposa Gazette which is California's oldest weekly newspaper in continuous publication. For those who love the outdoors, Mariposa County also offers an assortment of recreational activities including kayaking, hiking, horseback riding, rock climbing, and so much more. For an area rich in history and possibilities, visit Mariposa County and discover California began. |