Camp O'pera, California facts for kids

Camp O'pera, also known as Camp Opera, was an old town and mining camp located in Amador County, California. It was started by Mexican miners in the summer of 1849. The camp was found near a place called French Camp, which is southeast of Ione, California.

Camp O'pera: A Gold Rush Town

Camp O'pera was a busy place during the California Gold Rush. Many people came to California hoping to find gold. Towns like Camp O'pera grew quickly as miners arrived.

How Camp O'pera Started

In 1849, a group of Mexican miners set up Camp O'pera. They chose a spot near French Camp, which was already a known area. The goal was to find gold in the rich lands of Amador County. This was a time when many new settlements were popping up all over California.

From Boom to Bust

Camp O'pera grew steadily in its early years. By 1853, more people and businesses were moving into the camp. It reached its busiest time around 1857. During these years, it was a lively mining community. However, like many gold rush towns, its good times did not last forever. By the early 1860s, Camp O'pera began to shrink. Many miners moved on, and the town slowly faded away.

The Legend of Joaquin Murieta

Camp O'pera is also known for a famous story. It was said to be a hiding place for Joaquin Murieta. He was a well-known figure during the Gold Rush era. Stories about Murieta became very popular. His connection to Camp O'pera adds to the camp's interesting history.