Lava, California facts for kids

Lava was once a small community, or "settlement," located in El Dorado County, California. It was a place where people lived and worked for a short time, but it no longer exists as a town today.

What Was Lava?

Lava was a small settlement that appeared during a busy time in California's history. Many small towns like Lava popped up quickly, often because of mining or other natural resources. When those resources ran out, or people moved on, these towns sometimes became "former settlements."

Where Was Lava Located?

This former community was situated in the beautiful landscape of El Dorado County, California. It was found not far from another place called Volcanoville. El Dorado County is known for its rich history, especially during the California Gold Rush.

Why Was It Called Lava?

The name "Lava" might sound a bit fiery, and it was chosen for a good reason! The area around the settlement had many deposits of volcanic rock. These are rocks formed from ancient volcanoes. So, the town was named after these unique geological features found in the nearby valley.

A Short-Lived Town

Like many small settlements that grew quickly, Lava did not last very long. It had its own post office, which is a sign that it was an active community, even if for a brief period. The post office was open from 1880 to 1881. After just one year, it closed, and the settlement of Lava eventually faded away.

El Dorado County's History

El Dorado County, where Lava was located, has a fascinating past. It was one of the original counties in California, formed in 1850. The county played a huge role in the California Gold Rush, which brought many people to the state hoping to find their fortune. This era led to the creation of many small towns and communities, some of which, like Lava, were temporary.