Columbia, CA…169 years ago gold was discovered in Columbia. This discovery changed the land forever when thousands of people came to the Gem of Southern Mines to “strike it rich.” Come experience and commemorate this monumental event. Celebrate with us as we remember Columbia and how it grew into one of the richest Gold Rush era towns in California’s history. Please join us and celebrate Columbia’s birthday. This free event will be held on Wednesday, March 27th from 11:00am to 3:00pm in front of the museum and along Main Street.

Costumed docents will be present serving birthday cake and punch as the town comes alive with music, speeches, and re-enactments of the events that occurred on that historic day in 1850.

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

Friends of Columbia members, docents and volunteers raise funds to support the educational and Interpretive Programs at Columbia State Historic Park

Columbia State Historic Park annually hosts over 600,000 visitors, and is a major tourist destination in Tuolumne County. Its many historic-style stores and restaurants are run by over twenty-five concessionaires whose businesses, along with park staff and volunteers, help recreate the experience of the California Gold Rush for visitors from around the world.