Local streams and tributaries of the North Yuba River washed large quantities of gold-bearing sediments through this area, leaving very rich gravel banks or bars. In 1849, pioneers Miles and Andrew Goodyear and their party prospected and settled here, and news of their rich finds spread quickly, setting off a boom. Claims were restricted to a single 30-foot square per man, and one company produced 646 ounces in one week. After the initial rush moved on, a long-standing community of up to 400 Chinese miners profitably reworked the older diggings.