Last Chance, California facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Last Chance
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 Last Chance
Location in California
Last Chance
Location in the United States
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| Country |  United States |
| State |  California |
| County | Placer County |
| Elevation | 4,564 ft (1,391 m) |
Last Chance was once a small mining community in Placer County, California. It was also known by earlier names like Clifton and Caroline Diggings. This old town was located about 7.5 miles (12.1 km) northeast of Michigan Bluff. It sat high up in the mountains, at an elevation of 4,564 feet (1,391 meters).
What Was Last Chance?
Last Chance was a place where people lived and worked, mainly focused on finding valuable minerals. It was a "mining community," meaning most people there were involved in mining. These types of towns often grew quickly when gold or other resources were found.
A Look Back: History of Last Chance
The area around Last Chance became an official mining district in 1862. This meant rules were set up for how mining would happen there. Just one year later, in 1863, a school was built for the children living in the community. However, the school closed down in 1879.
In 1880, records show that 46 people lived in Last Chance. As time went on, the town slowly became less active. The Last Chance Hotel, a local landmark, stayed open until 1938. Today, the site where Last Chance once stood is empty and abandoned.
How Last Chance Got Its Name
The name "Last Chance" was given to the community by the miners themselves. It might have meant it was their "last chance" to find gold or make a fortune. A post office also served the community. It operated from 1865 to 1869, and then again from 1909 to 1919.
