Things to do / Travel Guide
Native American People of the Northern California Coast
Native Americans of the Northern California Coast area include the Coast Miwok tribe, the Pomo people and the Wintun. The dense forests and rough of Northern California discouraged European settlement, even though Sir Francis Drake “discovered” the area in 1579. By the early 1800's the Spanish had expanded their mission trail up to Sonoma. In the process, they confiscated much of the Indian tribes territories and moved them into the Spanish missions.
Russian Settlement at Fort Ross on the Northern California Coast
The area beyond Sonoma was claimed by the British and ignored by the Spanish, so in one of the unique points on the timeline of American History, the Russians with the help of Alaskan Natives, set up shop at Fort Ross, north of Bodega Bay. After they nearly wiped out the sea otters for their fur, they left, leaving Fort Ross as the southernmost point of Russian settlement in the United States.
Northern California Coast American History
Together with the excitement of the California Gold Rush, American pioneers discovered the vast redwood forests of Northern California and “harvested” much of the virgin forests. Fortunately, with some trees still standing tall, tourism kicked in and Californians began to discover the flora, fauna and the overall unique character of the region.
Historical Attractions in Northern California Coast from Bodega Bay to Mendocino to Eureka
History
|
|
|