Woodfords, California facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Woodfords, California
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|
|---|---|
| Country | United States |
| State | California |
| County | Alpine |
| Elevation | 5,617 ft (1,712 m) |
| Population
(2000)
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| • Total | 150 |
| Time zone | UTC-8 (PST) |
| • Summer (DST) | UTC-7 (PDT) |
| ZIP code |
96120
|
| Area code(s) | 530 |
Woodfords is a small, unincorporated community in Alpine County, California. It is located near Markleeville. For official counting, it is part of Alpine Village. Woodfords is about 6 miles (10 km) north-northwest of Markleeville. It sits at coordinates 38°46′40″N 119°49′19″W / 38.77778°N 119.82194°W.
This community has had many names over the years. Some of its past names include Brannan Springs, Carey's Mill, and Woodford's.
Contents
A Look Back: The History of Woodfords
Woodfords is a very old settlement in its region. It is the oldest place settled by non-native people.
How Woodfords Got Started
The story of Woodfords began in 1847. A man named Sam Brannan left supplies near a spring here. He was on his way to Salt Lake City. This spot, then called Brannan Springs, was perfect. It was on a busy road leading to California. Many people were traveling to California at that time.
Changes in Name and Post Office History
For a short time, the settlement was known as Carey's Mills. But the name Woodfords became common after 1849. That's when Daniel Woodford opened a hotel and an official post office nearby.
A post office first opened in Carey's Mills in 1858. Its name changed to Woodfords in 1869. This post office closed in 1914. It reopened in 1962 but closed for good in 1974.
Woodfords and the Pony Express
Woodfords played a role in the famous Pony Express. This was a fast mail service that used horses. On April 4, 1860, Woodfords became a Pony Express station. A rider named Warren Upson rode through a big snowstorm. He reached Woodfords from Lake Tahoe by crossing Luther Pass. Then he rode down the eastern side of the Sierra mountains. His journey continued to Carson City.
About five weeks later, the Pony Express route changed. It started using Echo Summit and the Kingsbury Grade instead. Today, the old Pony Express station in Woodfords is a California Historical Landmark. It is known as Landmark #805.
Who Lives in Woodfords Today?
About 150 people live in Woodfords full-time. Also, a group of the Southern band of the Washo tribe lives nearby. Their community is in Diamond Valley.
