Bracut, California facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Bracut
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The District 1 CalTrans yard at Bracut
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 Bracut
Location in California
Bracut
Location in the United States
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| Country | United States |
| State | California |
| County | Humboldt County |
| Elevation | 16 ft (5 m) |
Bracut (formerly called Brainard) is a small, unincorporated community in Humboldt County, California. An unincorporated community is a place that doesn't have its own local government. It's located near the Northwestern Pacific Railroad, about 3 miles (5 km) south of Arcata. Bracut sits very close to sea level, at an elevation of only 16 feet (5 meters).
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Discovering Bracut
Bracut is a unique spot in Northern California. It's known for its history with the railroad and how it changed the local landscape. This area is a great example of how human projects can shape the environment.
Where is Bracut Located?
Bracut is found in the beautiful Humboldt County. This county is on the northern coast of California. The community is situated right by the Humboldt Bay, which is a large natural harbor. Its low elevation means it's very close to the water.
How Bracut Got Its Name
The name "Bracut" comes from "Brainard cut." This refers to a special cut made through a hill called Brainard hill. This cut was created to make way for the railway tracks. The area was originally a salt marsh near Humboldt Bay. A salt marsh is a coastal wetland that is flooded by ocean tides.
Bracut's Railroad History
In the past, trains used to cross the marsh on long wooden bridges called trestles. These trestles connected the hill south to Eureka and north to Arcata. To make the railway stronger, much of Brainard hill was dug up. The dirt and rock from the hill were used as "fill" to replace the wooden bridges.
This new land for the railway became like a wall, or a dike. This dike helped to keep the ocean water out of the marsh. Over time, this encouraged the salty marshland to turn into grassy fields. These fields were then used for pasture land, where animals could graze.
What's in Bracut Today?
Today, the leveled area where Brainard hill once stood is home to several things. You can still see large buildings from old lumber operations. There is also a District 1 CalTrans yard. CalTrans is the California Department of Transportation, which maintains roads. Finally, Bracut is also home to a KOA campground, a popular place for campers.
