Columbia, CA…Columbia State Historic Park will present “Diggins Tent Town 1852”, their annual living history event this coming May 19th through May 22nd. Sponsored by Friends of Columbia and Columbia State Historic Park and depicted by over 150 costumed volunteers, visitors can experience the events and environment of an 1850’s mining camp that is re-created in detail from the clothing, food and entertainment.

The event weaves visitors through the characters’ lives of 1852 Columbia; the powerful stories of early miners and their wives, politics and daily events. Meet the merchants, artisans and entertainers who have come to the Diggins to “mine the miners’ pockets.” Interact and observe the lifestyles of the early miners as they prepare their meals, launder their clothing and care for gardens and livestock. Learn about their crafts, how their children played, their music and other forms of entertainment – including gambling! A variety of foods, drinks and other items are available for purchase inside the event.

Open from 10AM to 4PM daily, admission to Columbia “Diggins 1852” is $7 per adult and $2 per child 12 and under. There is no charge for parking and admission to the park. For more information contact Columbia Visitor Services at www.parks.ca.gov/Columbia or call (209) 588-9128.

Additional photos available upon request.

Columbia State Historic Park, located in Tuolumne County, California, is designated as a National Historic Landmark District and has been preserved to tell the story of the towns which arose during the California Gold Rush to serve the needs of miners. California State Parks has restored and continues to preserve over 30 of the original brick buildings along the town’s Main Street.

Columbia State Historic Park annually hosts over 400,000 visitors and is a major tourist destination in Tuolumne County. Its many historic-style stores and restaurants are run by over 20 Concessionaires whose businesses, along with park staff and volunteers, help recreate the experience of the California Gold Rush for visitors from around the world.

About California’s Drought

California has been dealing with the effects of drought. To learn about all the actions the state has taken to manage our water system and cope with the impacts of the drought, visit Drought.CA.Gov.

Every Californian should take steps to conserve water at home, at work and even when recreating outdoors. Find out how at SaveOurWater.com.

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California State Parks Mission
To provide for the health, inspiration and education of the people of California by helping to preserve the state’s extraordinary biological diversity, protecting its most valued natural and cultural resources, and creating opportunities for high quality outdoor recreation.