Minear, California facts for kids

Minear was once a small community, or "settlement," located in Mariposa County, California. It was about 6 miles (10 kilometers) north of a place called Jerseydale. Today, Minear is no longer an active town, but its history tells us a bit about how places grew and changed in California long ago.

What Was Minear?

A "settlement" is a place where people live and build homes and businesses. Minear was one of these small settlements that appeared in California, especially during times of growth like the Gold Rush. Many of these places were temporary. They often grew around a specific activity, like mining or farming.

Where Was Minear Located?

Minear was situated in Mariposa County, which is in the central part of California. This county is famous for its beautiful natural areas, including parts of Yosemite National Park. It also has a rich history tied to the Gold Rush era. The exact spot of Minear was about 6 miles (10 kilometers) north of another small community called Jerseydale.

The Post Office Story

Even small settlements often needed a way to send and receive mail. Minear had its own post office, which was open for a short time. It operated from 1895 to 1896. The settlement was named after John J. Minear, who was the very first postmaster there. A postmaster is the person in charge of a post office.

Why Did Settlements Disappear?

Many small settlements like Minear were created for specific reasons. For example, some towns grew up around a gold mine. When the gold ran out, people moved away. Others might have been farming communities that struggled with water or transportation. When the main reason for the settlement disappeared, or if people found better opportunities elsewhere, the town would slowly become empty. These places are then called "former settlements" or "ghost towns." Minear is an example of such a place.