Sonora

Introducing Sonora

Settled in 1848 by miners from Sonora, Mexico, this town was, in its heyday, a cosmopolitan center. It had shady parks, elaborate saloons and the Southern Mines’ largest concentration of gamblers, drunkards and gold. The Big Bonanza Mine, at the north end of Washington St where Sonora High School now stands, yielded 12 tons of gold in two years (including a 28lb nugget). It’s the county seat of Tuolumne County and its obvious foothill charms are attracting many newcomers. A Wal-Mart and chain restaurants like Applebee’s on the fringe attest to the growth. Fortunately, the historic center is changing with the times (antique stores abound) and it stays lively even after the sun goes down.

Last updated: Jul 7, 2009