Dutch Flat, California

Old Gold Town with New Life

That Was Then

Text By Cozette Cravens Photographs By Mack Barney and Dawn Bonner

There is a quaint, semi-ghost town called Dutch Flat, which reminds me of what life may have been like in 1851 when the town was formed.  Dutch Flat was settled in 1851 and so named by a couple of Germans miners.

The town was a major hydraulic mining center and in 1872, gold mining took over. In 1856 Dutch Flat had the largest stage coach station, until 1866 when the railroad came to the county. There was a Chinatown also in Dutch Flat, however only one adobe building remains. Among some of the oldest buildings remaining in Dutch Flat are the Methodist Church, Masonic Temple, Odd Fellows Hall, the Trading Post and Store, Dutch Flat Hotel and the Hearse House. The town has survived fires, storms, and earthquakes. There is a lot of California history in Dutch Flat.

This is Now

Today the town folk in Dutch Flat are very friendly and enjoy sharing their town’s heritage. I had a wonderful experience when I was there and plan on going back soon. Dutch Flat is a warm and inviting place to visit, picturesque and the weather seems nice most of the year.  Each season brings it own special uniqueness to the charming berg.  It snows in winter–great for skiing and snowshoeing.  Fall brings the gorgeous kaleidoscope of autumn colors.  Summer is great with the lush greens, mountain hiking, and wildflowers.  Spring brings forth flowers at every turn and renewal to the soul.

 

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