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Datebook: March 9 - Gold Discovered in California 170 Years Ago

Leon Worden, www.scvhistory.com

On March 9, 1842, Francisco Lopez took a rest under an oak tree in Placerita Canyon and had a dream that he was floating on a pool of gold. When he awoke, he pulled a few wild onions from the ground and found flakes of gold clinging to the roots. Lopez had studied mineralogy at the University of Mexico, so some believe he had actually been systematically looking for gold. Lopez's discovery was the first documented discovery of gold in the state. This sparked a minor gold rush for several years until the word got out and became the famous California Gold Rush in 1848.  How about that? Digging up onions and finding gold!

 

It’s Friday, March 9

Murray in Motion is hosting a free “Try-Athon” tomorrow from 10AM to noon at Racer Arena.  It’s an opportunity for children and families to try new activities like football, soccer, disc golf, yoga, gymnastics, and more.  There will be prizes and giveaways.  All Calloway County residents are invited.

The Humane Society of Calloway County holds an Adoption Day tomorrow from 10AM to 1PM.  Foster dogs and cats will be at Orscheln’s Farm and Home store to meet and greet potential owners.  The Humane Society will also be accepting tornado relief supplies for animals during the event.

Murray State Athletics invites all fans to the 2012 Racer Dance Party on Sunday at 3:30 in Racer Arena.  The free event celebrates the 15th NCAA Tournament selection for the men’s basketball team.  MSU players and coaches will be signing autographs, and the Racer Band will play favorite game-day songs.  All fans are encouraged to wear gold and to bring signs for the festivities.

Have you pledged support to public radio yet?  Learn more at wkms.org.  Thanks.

Kala Dunn is a native of Princeton, Ky. She’s a 2006 graduate of the Interlochen Arts Academy with a concentration in flute performance and a 2010 graduate of Murray State University with a B.M. in piano performance. She lives in Hamlin, Ky.
Matt Markgraf joined the WKMS team as a student in January 2007. He's served in a variety of roles over the years: as News Director March 2016-September 2019 and previously as the New Media & Promotions Coordinator beginning in 2011. Prior to that, he was a graduate and undergraduate assistant. He is currently the host of the international music show Imported on Sunday nights at 10 p.m.
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