Jamestown: Gold Rush, Railtown and Film History

Jamestown combines Gold Rush history with railroad heritage, film and television connections, and wine tasting. This gives a stay a clear focus on local history and specific visitor experiences. If you’re looking for a hotel in Jamestown, these themes can help guide your choice of destination. The town is located along the Highway 108 and 49 corridor.

Gold Discovery and Local History

James Woods discovered gold on Woods Creek, west of the present-day town, shortly before Colonel George James founded the town on August 8, 1848. Jamestown became known as a gateway to the Mother Lode and the southern mines. The gold discovery marks a specific place and time; the description of Jamestown as a gateway sums up its historical connection to the Mother Lode and the southern mines.

Railtown: Railroad Shops and Train Ride

Railtown 1897 State Historic Park in Jamestown is home to an intact, still-operational facility for maintaining and repairing steam locomotives. Parts of the facility date back to 1897. The Jamestown Roundhouse is the oldest continuously operating building of its kind in the United States. The Machine Shop was built in 1898 and is one of the oldest buildings in the Jamestown shop complex. The years refer to different details: 1897 for parts of the facility, and 1898 for the Machine Shop.

Railtown offers guided tours of the working railroad roundhouse and the air-powered turntable. Tours also point out several sights, including areas that offer views into the shops and roundhouse. The specific offerings may vary. Another option is a six-mile, 45-minute round-trip train ride from Jamestown into the rugged foothills of California’s Mother Lode region. Train rides follow seasonal schedules, so check the current timetable before planning your visit.

Film History and the Gold Rush

The Walk of Fame in downtown Jamestown runs from Rocca Park to Railtown 1897 State Historic Park. More than 200 medallions along the route highlight film and television history. The Jamestown Museum in Rocca Park features a replica blacksmith shop and other memorabilia.

The Gold Rush story is also brought to life locally: California Gold Panning offers tours in Jamestown where adults and children can learn about Gold Rush history and the mineralogy of gold. This presents the historic gold discovery and learning about gold as two different ways to explore the subject.

Wine Tasting in Jamestown

Arthur Michael Vineyard & Winery has a tasting room in downtown Jamestown. The Depot at Hurst Ranch offers wine tastings by appointment. If you plan to include a tasting at the Depot, make an appointment.

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