FACT SHEET California Cavern was discovered in 1850 by a miner named Captain Taylor, who was target practicing and noticed a cool breeze coming from the rocks as he was setting up his targets. He later discovered other entrances that had been used by Native Americans. The numerous grinding rocks located on the cavern property indicate that a large number of Native Americans once lived on the property. It is believed that the cave was used as a "dungeon" by the Native Americans because the few bones that were found were in the fetal position. This indicates a death by hypothermia rather than a fall (the cavern temperature is 55°F). A mining camp, called Cave City, was established around the cavern, between 1859 and 1875. There were approximately 20 woodframed buildings, hundreds of tents, and a school district. The population of Cave City reached a peak of 400. Residents of Cave City used the cavern for dances, religious services, town meetings, weddings, and there was even a bar inside. California Cavern was called "Mammoth Cave" during the late 1800's. During this time many famous visitors toured the cavern, including John Muir. He later described the cavern in his book entitled Mountains of California. Mark Twain and Bret Harte also visited the cavern. " we lingered and reveled, rejoicing to find so much music in stony silence, so much splendor in darkness, so many mansions in the depths of the mountains, buildings ever in process of construction, yet ever finished, developing from perfection to perfection, profusion without overabundance;" John Muir In 1910 "Mammoth Cave" closed and remained abandoned until 1980, when it was re-opened as California Cavern. California Cavern is located in Calaveras County, approximately 12 miles east of San Andreas. Nearby sights include Columbia State Historic Park, Big Trees State Park, Moaning Cavern, and Bear Valley Ski Resort. Local historic communities include San Andreas, Angels Camp, Murphys, and Jamestown, all rich in early California history.