DALE SHINN, right, instructs young visitors to “Coloma Gold Rush Live!” about the proper handling of weapons. Democrat file photo

COLOMA – The California Gold Rush and the 1850s come to life in Coloma on Saturday, Oct. 8, through Monday, Oct. 10, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Saturday and Sunday and from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Monday at Marshall Gold Discovery State Historic Park on Highway 49 in Coloma.

Walk into California’s history at the site where gold was discovered at Sutter’s Mill during Marshall Gold Discovery State Historic Park’s premier interpretive event “Coloma Gold Rush Live!”

For three days Coloma brims with images, sounds, and hands-on experiences that bring the Gold Rush back to life.

Merchants hawk their wares, the Coloma Cemetery Players bring historic figures to life, miners tell tales from the goldfields, and visitors rub shoulders with adventurers and other 19th century Californians, such as James Marshall who found the first nuggets that started the California Gold Rush.

A tent encampment recreates Gold Rush history in this authentic setting under the huge oak and sycamore trees along the South Fork of the American River.

Volunteers will interpret history in period dress. See them as they cook over open fires, show visitors how to pan for gold, make rope, and demonstrate trades such as historic timber frame construction, blacksmithing, spinning, weaving, basket making and more.

Children’s hands on activities and games from the 19th century entertain, as musicians play period instruments and sing songs of the early California immigrants.

It’s a lively and colorful way to learn and enjoy a way of life that was unique to Coloma 160 years ago.

Visitors can read and write actual Gold Rush letters at the general delivery tent and be sure to visit the early exhibit buildings of Coloma which developed soon after the discovery of gold.

Current-day authors who write about California’s wild and fascinating history will also be in Coloma.

On Sunday, Oct. 9, at 11 a.m. “Rev. Peter Cool” calls all visitors to an 1850s non- denominational service at the historic Emmanuel Church.

“Coloma Gold Rush Live!” is presented by Marshall Gold Discovery State Historic Park and the Gold Discovery Park Association which is a nonprofit organization dedicated to the interpretation and conservation of the park. Parking is $10 per vehicle.

For more information call 530-622-3470.