1/15/2025
2/3/2007
2/3/2007
2/3/2007
2/3/2007
5/26/1996
Landmark information
- Location:
Intersection of Springfield and Horseshoe Bend Rds, 1.1 mi SW of Columbia - Plaque:
Other Plaque - Site:
Existing - Date First Visited:
5/26/1996 - Date Most Recently Visited:
1/15/2025 - GPS Coordinates:
N 38 1.306, W 120 24.762
About this landmark
Plaque text:
Mark Twain Bret Harte Trail
Springfield
Springfield received name from abundant springs gushing from limestone boulders. Town, with its stores, shops, and hotel, built around plaza. Once boasted 2,000 inhabitants. Believed founded by Donna Josefa Valmesada, Mexican woman of means, with reputation for aiding Americans in war with Mexico. During heyday, 150 miners' carts could be seen on road, hauling gold-bearing dirt to Springfield Springs for washing.