South Yuba Canal Office

The gold ran out and the water did not. This was headquarters for the largest network of ditches and flumes in the state, built by the first company incorporated to sell water to hydraulic mines — and when hydraulic mining was shut down the ditches kept their value, because the rights attached to them had already been granted. The system passed into the hands of a utility and became hydroelectric generation. The Sierra's most durable gold rush inheritance is a water right.

What the plaque says

Headquarters for the largest network of water flumes and ditches in the state. The South Yuba Canal Water Company was the first incorporated to supply water for hydraulic mining The original ditch was in use in May, 1850, and this company office was in use from 1857 to 1880. The holdings later became part of the vast P.G. & E. hydroelectric system.

Where it stands

Worth the stop nearby

• Nevada City — steps away
  Gaslamps, brick storefronts, and the Nisenan who are still fighting to be recognized on their own ground.
• Empire Mine State Historic Park — 4.6 mi
  The oldest, deepest, richest hard-rock gold mine in California, with 367 miles of flooded tunnels underneath.
• Malakoff Diggins State Historic Park — 9.4 mi
  A canyon washed out of a mountain by water cannon, and the lawsuit that ended hydraulic mining.

More markers nearby

• National Hotel — steps away
• First Manufacturing Site of the Pelton Wheel — steps away
• Nevada Theatre — steps away
• Holbrooke Hotel — 3.9 mi