Golden State History & Photography

09/10/2026

Sept. 10th, 2015 - The Butte Fire (from my porch) in Jackson, California.

I have a different shot of the fire I'll upload later today.

09/09/2026

09/06/2026

THE IOOF BUILDING — SONORA, CALIFORNIA

"Standing in downtown Sonora is one of Tuolumne County’s oldest surviving fraternal landmarks. The building dates to 1850, and on June 7, 1853, Sonora Lodge No. 10 of the Independent Order of Odd Fellows was organized. The building was remodeled twice over the years, but it has remained closely connected with the Odd Fellows for generations.

The IOOF was more than a social organization. In the early days, its members helped care for the sick and elderly, assisted orphans, and provided burial assistance—important services in a Gold Rush-era community. Sonora’s IOOF Cemetery was established in 1856, just a few years after the lodge was founded. More than 170 years later, the Odd Fellows continue their tradition of community service in Sonora.

A remarkable survivor from the Gold Rush era, this old building is a reminder of just how much history remains standing in downtown Sonora."

Photographed: Oct. 2018.

09/04/2026

The Sonora Opera Hall - Tuolumne County, California.

"James Divoll and Joseph Bray, owners of the Bonanza mine constructed the Star Flouring Mills on this site in 1879. In August 1885 the mill burned, leaving the stone and brick walls. From the ruins they built the Opera Hall. The Hall was only active for about 10 years, hosting plays, patriotic events, fairs and exhibits. In 1896 Bray

became the sole owner and converted the building into a carpenter shop. Joseph Francis and John Damas acquired the property in 1911 and opened the Opera Hall Garage, which operated until 1979. Francis bought out Damas in 1922. The City of Sonora acquired the property in 1986 and through state grants, redevelopment, and

volunteer efforts was able to restore the building."

Photographed: Oct. 2018.

09/02/2026

08/28/2026

08/27/2026

The "Lower" Fairchild Building - Placerville, CA.

"F.A. Gerbode began construction of this building for William A. Fairchild in 1903. Family legend says that when excavation began, enough Gold was found to finance the project, which totaled $16k.

The building's two stories, much like today, housed two stores on the first floor, including Fairchild's Pharmacy, and 15 office rooms on the second floor. In the early days, Fairchild's Pharmacy featured an elaborate marble-topped soda fountain."

Photographed: Oct. 2025.