Grass Valley, CA Historic Gold Mining town, occupied since it was founded. On Hwy 49 SW of Nevada City. Home of the Empire Mine State Park which offers tours of the gold mine operated until 1956, as well as many other gold mines, most abandoned or developed into real estate.
Main industries are resident services, high tech industry, and tourism.
Many original buildings. Miss Montez, born Eliza Gilbert in Ireland, attained worldwide fame but not fortune as a dancer. Grass Valley received its name from a group of emigrants who arrived there in 1849 after a tortuous trip across the country. The journey had taken its toll on the horses and other live stock. The abundant growth of grass and available water allowed the cattle and horses the luxury of self-indulgence.