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Historic Sonora, Queen of the Southern Mines
In the beautiful Sierra Nevada Foothills, in the heart of California ’s “Gold Country” lies Sonora,
named after the miners from Sonora Mexico who settled the City
in 1848. Known as the “Queen of the Southern Mines”, this pristine
City still holds on to its historic charm with many of its existing
buildings dating back to the 1800’s. In fact, a walk along most
streets in the City allows one to reminisce with days gone by;
a brick or stone building, a slate wall, an iron shutter or fence,
or a historic home nestled in an old fashioned garden.
Incorporated in 1851, this hastily
established mining camp took on the identity of a town and while
gold mining was the driving force of the City it quickly evolved
into the commercial, government and cultural center for the region.
The prosperity of California’s “Mother Lode” that drew the gold
seekers of yesteryear to this beautiful area is still being discovered
today as Sonora remains the center of commerce for the region.
As the area’s cultural center,
Sonora is home to museums, art galleries and live theater. The
City also plays host to numerous festivals and special events throughout
the year. Just outside the City limits are year-round outdoor recreational
opportunities at resorts, campgrounds, lakes, golf courses and
high country waterways. Sonora is an easy drive from the San Francisco
Bay Area or the Central Valley. State Highways 108 and 49 pass
through the City, which, incidentally, is just seventy miles north
of Yosemite National Park.
With its rich heritage, historic charm and small town hospitality, visitors and locals alike enjoy
a relaxing stroll along the City’s historic main street while shopping
in the many specialty and antique shops, taking time out to have
a delectable meal in one of its many fine restaurants, bakeries
and coffee houses.
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