Camp Union, California facts for kids

Camp Union was a small, historical settlement located in Amador County, California. It was situated about 2 miles (3.2 km) northeast of Lancha Plana, just west of French Camp, and north of the Mokelumne River. Like many places in California during the mid-1800s, Camp Union was likely a busy spot that grew because of the exciting search for gold.

What Was Camp Union?

Camp Union was a "former settlement," which means it was once a place where people lived and worked, but it no longer exists as a town today. Many settlements like Camp Union were temporary camps or small towns that popped up quickly during the California Gold Rush. People would gather in these places hoping to find their fortune in gold.

A Gold Rush Story

The California Gold Rush began in 1848 when gold was discovered at Sutter's Mill. News of the discovery spread fast, and soon, thousands of people from all over the world rushed to California. These gold seekers were called "forty-niners" because many arrived in 1849. They came hoping to strike it rich.

How Settlements Appeared and Disappeared

As miners searched for gold, they needed places to buy supplies, get food, and rest. This led to the rapid growth of many small settlements. Camp Union was probably one of these places, offering services to miners working along the Mokelumne River. However, once the gold in an area ran out, or miners moved to new discoveries, these settlements often became ghost towns. This is likely what happened to Camp Union.

Where Was Camp Union Located?

Camp Union was in Amador County, a region in California known for its rich Gold Rush history. The area is part of the Sierra Nevada foothills, where many rivers and streams once carried gold.

The Mokelumne River

The settlement was located north of the Mokelumne River. Rivers were very important during the Gold Rush because miners often found gold in the riverbeds or along their banks. The Mokelumne River was a key waterway in the gold country, and many mining camps were established near it.

Nearby Places

Camp Union was close to other historical settlements like Lancha Plana and French Camp. These names often tell us a little about the people who settled there or the activities that took place. Lancha Plana, for example, means "flat boat" in Spanish, suggesting it might have been a river crossing point. French Camp indicates a place where French miners or traders might have gathered.

Legacy of Camp Union

While Camp Union no longer exists, its name reminds us of California's exciting and challenging Gold Rush era. These former settlements are important parts of history, showing how people lived and worked during a time when California was rapidly changing.