The Second California Gold Rush: There’s Gold Growing in Them ‘Thar Hills

Many people have heard of the California Gold Rush — that mass migration of prospectors who sought their fortunes after the discovery of gold at Sutter’s Mill in 1948. But did you know this massive influx of gold-seekers and miners led to huge expansion in agriculture needed to support a growing population? Learn the history of this “Second California Gold Rush” as Museum of Riverside Archivist Steve Mendeville-Gamble tells the story of the agricultural boom — particularly the citrus industry — in Riverside and the surrounding communities. It’s a Golden State legacy that outlived the Forty-Niners.

“The Second California Gold Rush: There’s Gold Growing in Them ‘Thar Hills” will be held Thursday, October 8, from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. at the Orange Terrace Community Center, 20010 Orange Terrace Parkway, Riverside, CA 92508. This presentation is part of the City of Riverside’s commemoration of the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence.