Northern Mariposa County History Center, Coulterville

About Northern Mariposa County History Center

The Northern Mariposa County History Center in Coulterville preserves the Gold Country heritage of northern Mariposa County through exhibits and hands-on activities. Visitors tour displays featuring artifacts over 100 years old, including Native American items, mining equipment, and a locally-discovered Mastodon tooth. The center's signature attraction is Whistling Billy, an eight-ton Porter Locomotive that once carried gold ore from the Mary Harrison Mine to a forty-stamper mill. Gold panning is available for all ages, letting visitors experience the gold rush firsthand. A vehicle barn displays an 1860s town hearse. The gift shop sells locally-made goods, real gold bottles and coins, beaded jewelry, and regional history books. Trained docents answer questions throughout the tour. The Folk School offers workshops and classes. The center suits history enthusiasts and families interested in learning about regional mining heritage through interactive exploration and artifact study.