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History

Embracing Change While Preserving History: A New Chapter for Historic Downtown Colfax

Downtown Colfax is experiencing a notable shift. With an influx of new residents and a growing interest in the town’s unique character, the need to preserve its rich historical identity has never been greater. The Historic Colfax Downtown Association recently held a community meeting that sparked deep conversations about the value of preservation, the tools available for protecting heritage, and the importance of telling Colfax’s story to the world.

Understanding What We Have Before It’s Gone

As development continues to unfold, now is the time to take inventory of our historical assets—buildings, stories, and community spaces that define Colfax’s legacy. Change is a part of life. Fires, renovations, and time itself naturally shape our town. But when approached thoughtfully, change doesn’t have to come at the cost of character.

Preserving Colfax’s architectural and cultural identity means protecting the essence of our shared past while making room for a thriving future.

What’s in Place Now?

The City of Colfax already has a Historic Overlay Zone in place, which means design guidelines exist for properties downtown. These are primarily focused on the exteriors of buildings—ensuring that any modifications maintain the architectural integrity and visual cohesion of the area. However, as discussed in the meeting, Colfax does not currently have a historic preservation ordinance, nor a local register of historic properties, which limits broader protections and benefits.

What Could Come Next?

Participants discussed the possibility of establishing Colfax as a Certified Local Government (CLG). Achieving this designation from the state of California would open the door to grants and technical assistance dedicated to historic preservation. It requires having a preservation ordinance, a commission to oversee historic reviews, and a local register.

Another exciting development: The City of Colfax recently completed a preliminary inventory of potentially historic properties. While not a formal designation, this list is the first step toward understanding and eventually protecting structures of significance.

Why Formal Designation Matters

Registering buildings on the National Register of Historic Places or the California Register of Historical Resources can provide access to financial incentives, such as:

  • Federal Historic Tax Credit (20% back on qualified income-producing renovations)
  • California Historic Tax Credit (for both commercial and residential buildings)
  • Mills Act Program (not yet adopted in Colfax), which can reduce property taxes significantly for historic homeowners

While these designations are generally honorary and non-regulatory, they send a strong message: Colfax values its history and is committed to preserving it. They also provide property owners with flexibility under the California Historical Building Code, allowing for adaptive reuse projects that maintain historic integrity.

Local Voices, Local Value

The conversation revealed a shared community passion for Colfax’s heritage—from century-old storefronts with underground tunnels to the beloved Colfax theater. Residents offered first-hand stories, including accounts of buildings rebuilt after historic fires and hidden basements that once served as living spaces and workspaces.

One local described their building as the town’s original print shop, expressing excitement about highlighting its story through a walking tour or historical plaque. The Historic Colfax Downtown Association members shared a project they are working on that would incorporate leveraging technology and history. They are also actively working on expanding the historic walking tours in Colfax. These efforts aim to create engaging, self-guided experiences for visitors by bringing the stories of historic landmarks to life through modern tools and storytelling methods. By blending innovation with tradition, the goal is to offer a richer, more immersive understanding of Colfax’s unique past for both residents and tourists alike.

Looking Ahead: A Historic District for Colfax?

The most promising idea discussed was creating a formal historic district in downtown Colfax. This would allow property owners to benefit collectively from tax incentives and grants while preserving the collective charm and history of the area. It’s also a more affordable and manageable approach than individual property listings.

Establishing a historic district requires community support. A majority of property owners within the district’s boundaries must agree to participate. Many attendees expressed strong interest, but also emphasized the importance of clear communication and education about the benefits versus perceived restrictions.

Turning History Into Tourism

As other California towns like Grass Valley and Nevada City have shown, historic preservation isn’t just about nostalgia—it’s an economic driver. By promoting heritage tourism through storytelling, signage, and curated experiences, Colfax has a unique opportunity to boost its downtown economy while honoring its roots.

There’s already evidence of interest. Visitors are arriving with lists of historic addresses, seeking out stories and snapping photos of unique architecture. By providing accessible resources—both physical and digital—we can turn casual curiosity into meaningful engagement.

What’s Next?

The Historic Colfax Downtown Association is committed to continuing this conversation with city leaders, local businesses, and residents. If you’re a building owner, local historian, or just passionate about Colfax’s legacy, your voice matters. Let’s work together to shape a future that respects our past and inspires future generations. Reach out to us and let’s connect!

Preserving Colfax, Ca: A Mission to Honor Our Past and Build Our Future

Preserving Colfax: A Mission to Honor Our Past and Build Our Future

Colfax, California, is a town deeply rooted in history. From its pivotal role in the Gold Rush era to its status as a key junction for the Central Pacific Railroad, our community has a rich legacy that deserves recognition and preservation. At the Historic Colfax Downtown Association (HCDA), our mission is to honor this past while ensuring a thriving future for generations to come.

Why Historic Preservation Matters

Preserving historic buildings and districts isn’t just about nostalgia; it’s about community identity, economic opportunity, and sustainability. A well-preserved downtown enhances the character of a city, attracts tourism, and provides financial incentives for property owners. Here’s why historic designation is crucial:

✅ Financial Incentives – Properties designated as historic can qualify for tax credits, grants, and funding opportunities that support restoration and maintenance.

✅ Flexible Building Codes – The California Historical Building Code provides owners with cost-effective alternatives to modern building regulations, making preservation more attainable.

✅ Increased Property Value – Historic designation enhances a property’s marketability while maintaining the town’s unique charm.

✅ Economic Revitalization – A thriving historic downtown encourages business investment, attracts visitors, and fosters a strong sense of community pride.

Our Work at the Historic Colfax Downtown Association

At HCDA, we are dedicated to revitalizing and preserving Downtown Colfax. We believe that through education, community engagement, and proactive restoration efforts, we can make Colfax a landmark destination in the Sierra Foothills.

Hosting Events to Educate & Inspire

We are thrilled to invite you to our upcoming event:

📅 Date: April 17, 2024
🕕 Time: 5:00 PM
📍 Location: 99 Railroad Street, Colfax, CA
🎤 Guest Speaker: Gretchen Boyce, Historic Preservation Specialist
💰 FREE Event – Open to All!

This event will provide a step-by-step guide on how to get a property designated as historic, the benefits of doing so, and how to navigate the application process. Whether you’re a property owner, business owner, or history enthusiast, this is an incredible opportunity to learn from an expert and take part in preserving our town’s heritage.

Preserving Historic Spaces

The HCDA is working closely with property owners to restore and maintain Colfax’s historic buildings. We are actively seeking grants and funding to help revitalize key structures, ensuring they remain a vital part of our downtown landscape.

Encouraging Economic Growth

By preserving Colfax’s historic charm, we aim to create an inviting atmosphere that supports local businesses and attracts new enterprises. With a strong historic foundation, Colfax can become a hub for tourism, arts, and culture.

How You Can Get Involved

🔹 Attend Our Events – Engage with preservation experts and learn how you can contribute.
🔹 Join the HCDA – Become a member and help shape the future of downtown Colfax.
🔹 Support Local Businesses – Strengthen our economy by shopping and dining locally.
🔹 Spread the Word – Share our mission with friends, family, and fellow community members.

Join Us in Preserving the Heart of Colfax

Together, we can make Colfax a thriving destination where history and progress walk hand in hand. Whether you’re a long-time resident, a business owner, or a newcomer passionate about preserving the past, there’s a place for you in this movement.

📩 RSVP Today!
🌐 Visit: Click here to register for this FREE event!

This event is proudly sponsored by the Historic Colfax Downtown Association.

Let’s work together to preserve the past, revitalize the present, and shape the future of Colfax!

The Story of Rollins Lake, Colfax, CA: A River Reimagined

Before There Was Rollins Lake: The Bear River’s Untamed Past

Before Rollins Lake in Colfax, CA, became a renowned destination for camping, fishing, and water sports, there was only the Bear River, flowing freely through the Sierra Foothills. This river, once known as Río de Oso (River of the Bear) by Spanish explorers in 1822, carved through valleys that would later be settled by Gold Rush miners, ranchers, and pioneers seeking opportunity in the rugged Northern California landscape.

During the mid-1800s, the Bear River was a Gold Rush hotspot, where miners flocked in search of fortune and prosperity. They built sluice boxes, tunnels, and small settlements along its banks, leaving behind a lasting imprint of California’s gold-mining history. Some of these tunnels still lie beneath the lakebed today, remnants of an era when Colfax, CA, thrived as a hub for prospectors and pioneers.

🚧 The Construction of Rollins Dam (1963-1965)

By the early 1960s, the Bear River was no longer just a scenic waterway—it was a strategic resource. The NID, in partnership with EBASCO Services Inc., developed the blueprint for Rollins Dam, an earthen dam standing 228 feet high and stretching 1,840 feet across.

🔨 Construction Timeline:

✔ July 1963 – Groundbreaking began on the dam.
✔ December 1965 – Rollins Dam was completed, permanently altering the Bear River.
✔ 1966 – The reservoir was officially dedicated to Dr. Jarret Laben Rollins, a prohibition leader and physician who played a significant role in regional water and power development.

The construction of Rollins Lake in Colfax, CA, was a game-changer, providing not just water storage, but also benefits like flood control, irrigation, drinking water, and hydroelectric power—all as part of the Yuba-Bear Hydroelectric Project, which still supplies energy to homes and businesses today.

💦 Rollins Lake Becomes a Recreational Destination

Though Rollins Lake was initially created as a controlled water source, it soon evolved into a recreational paradise. With 26 miles of shoreline and over 900 acres of surface water, it became one of Northern California’s most popular destinations for:

🏕 Camping – Featuring four major campgrounds (Long Ravine, Orchard Springs, Peninsula, and Greenhorn), attracting visitors year-round.
🎣 Fishing – Home to spotted bass, bluegill, crappie, and trout, making it a hotspot for anglers. Find out more about the fishing.
🚤 Boating & Water Sports – With multiple marinas, boat launches, and rentals, it became a haven for kayakers, wakeboarders, and houseboaters.

Learn more about Rollins Lake Recreation!

💡 A Changing Ecosystem

As Rollins Lake filled, the Bear River’s natural habitat was transformed. The area, once dominated by riverbanks and rocky outcroppings, became a thriving lake ecosystem, attracting:

🦅 Bald eagles and ospreys soaring overhead
🦌 Deer grazing along the shoreline
🐟 Diverse fish species thriving beneath the surface

🌲 A Place That Holds More Than Water

Rollins Lake in Colfax, CA, is more than just a body of water—it’s a river transformed, a valley submerged, and a history waiting to be rediscovered.

It’s a place where progress met wilderness, where miners once panned for gold, and where modern-day adventurers find their own treasures—on the water, at the campgrounds, and along its scenic shores.

So next time you visit Rollins Lake, whether you’re boating, camping, or casting a fishing line, take a moment to reflect on what lies beneath the surface. The Bear River still flows here—hidden, but never forgotten.

Historic Colfax and railroad in Placer County, CA

Which County is Colfax CA in?

Colfax, California, is a historic town located in Placer County, a region rich in Gold Rush history and pivotal to the development of the American railroad system. Known for its crucial role during the mid-1800s and its connection to the construction of the Central Pacific Railroad, Colfax embodies the legacy of exploration, industry, and growth that characterized early California. Understanding which county Colfax, CA is in offers insight into its significance and how it played a part in shaping the vibrant history of Placer County.

The Gold Rush Era: Foundation of Placer County

Placer County’s history is rooted in the discovery of gold, which transformed a once quiet landscape into a bustling hub of opportunity. The Gold Rush began in 1848 when James W. Marshall found gold at Sutter’s Mill in nearby Coloma, setting off a monumental wave of migration. As miners flooded the region, settlements expanded rapidly. Among these nascent communities was what would later become Colfax, CA.

How the Gold Rush Shaped Colfax

Colfax, originally called Alder Grove and later known as Illinoistown, thrived due to its strategic position in Placer County. This location made it a key stopover for prospectors journeying to the gold-rich Sierra Nevada foothills. Surrounding areas, such as Dutch Flat and Foresthill, experienced a surge in mining activity that fueled the county’s economy and influenced its social dynamics. The influx of miners led to increased demand for services, goods, and infrastructure, positioning Colfax as a vital logistical hub during the Gold Rush.

A significant route in the area was the Stevens Trail, which connected Iowa Hill to Colfax, facilitating the transport of miners and supplies. This trail was crucial not only for movement but also for ensuring miners had access to essential provisions and a safer path through the rugged terrain. Furthermore, Colfax played a pivotal role in shipping goods and supplies to Empire Mine in Grass Valley, one of California’s most productive gold mines. The reliable flow of supplies from Colfax was essential for the protection and well-being of miners, ensuring their continuous operation and success in the challenging environment.

Historic Landmarks Tied to the Gold Rush

For those interested in relics of the Gold Rush era, the Colfax Area Heritage Museum offers an in-depth look at the town’s role during this transformative period, featuring artifacts, photographs, and exhibits that detail life in 19th-century Colfax. Additionally, the Placer County Museum in nearby Auburn showcases mining equipment, maps, and firsthand accounts that illustrate the experiences and challenges faced by early settlers, providing a broader understanding of the region’s historical significance.

The Central Pacific Railroad and Colfax

One of the most transformative projects of the 19th century was the construction of the Central Pacific Railroad, which later merged to become part of the first transcontinental railroad. Completed between 1863 and 1869, this massive undertaking was driven by the vision of connecting the eastern United States with California’s bustling ports and resource-rich interior.

Colfax, named in 1865 after Schuyler Colfax, who served as the Speaker of the House and later Vice President, became a vital rail hub. The town’s location made it an ideal spot for refueling, restocking, and crew changes as trains prepared to ascend the Sierra Nevada’s treacherous mountain passes. The completion of the transcontinental railroad marked the beginning of a new era for both Colfax and Placer County as a whole.

The Colfax Depot: One of the most iconic buildings that remains from this period is the Colfax Passenger Depot, constructed in 1905. It reflects the town’s rich railroad history and continues to draw visitors eager to experience a piece of this transformative time.

Historic Colfax Today: Preserving Gold Rush and Railroad Legacies

Modern Colfax pays homage to its historic roots while serving as a vibrant community. The downtown area features preserved architecture from the 19th and early 20th centuries, showcasing the styles and structures that defined the era.

Annual Celebrations and Festivals: Colfax is known for its vibrant calendar of annual events that celebrate the town’s rich history and community spirit. Colfax Railroad Days is a family-friendly event that invites visitors to explore the town’s past through guided tours, model train displays, and exhibits highlighting Colfax’s role in the railroad and mining industries. Other popular annual events include Winterfest, which kicks off the holiday season with festive lights and activities, and the 3rd of July Celebration, where locals gather for fireworks and patriotic festivities. The town also hosts Oktoberfest, complete with traditional food, music, and fun, as well as the Chili Cook-off, which showcases the best local recipes. For a touch of seasonal excitement, the Truck or Treat event brings families together for Halloween-themed fun with decorated vehicles and candy giveaways.

Key Places to Visit in Colfax and Placer County

  • The Colfax Historical Society Museum: Dive deeper into local history with curated collections that include photographs, documents, and tools used during the Gold Rush and the construction of the railroad.
  • Historic Buildings: Walking tours through Colfax allow visitors to view remnants of its early days, including hotels and mercantile shops that served miners and railway workers.
  • Auburn State Recreation Area: While not directly in Colfax, this site in Placer County provides trails and sites where gold was historically panned, giving a glimpse into the rugged life of the 1850s miner.

Preserving the Legacy: Why Colfax’s Story Matters

Understanding which county Colfax, CA is in and the town’s historical significance offers a window into how Placer County developed from its Gold Rush origins to becoming a key player in the broader economic growth driven by the railroad industry. Colfax’s evolution reflects the dynamic shifts of California’s early years and the resilience of communities that thrived on opportunity and innovation. Find out more about how you can help preserve Colfax, CA.

Colfax California historic railroad hub in Gold Rush era.

Historic Colfax, CA: A Hub of Gold Rush and Railroad Legacy

Tucked in the foothills of the Sierra Nevada, Colfax, California, stands as a living testament to the intertwined histories of the Gold Rush and the rise of the American railroad. This small town, founded in the mid-19th century, played a critical role in the transportation of goods, services, and people, both during the peak of California’s gold rush and the expansion of the transcontinental railway system. Leveraging its strategic location, Colfax became a pivotal hub, bridging the industrial heart of the country with the gold-laden hills of the West.

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