In 1849, the news of gold discoveries in California swept through Washington. This rekindled Bruff's desire for travel and adventure. He organized the Washington City and California Mining Association and planned an expedition to California with the stated purpose of mining gold and conducting trade. The association had many investors and they financed a well-equipped expedition. Bruff was elected captain of the expedition. While it was an unofficial title, Bruff was called "Captain" for the rest of his life.