Agua Fria was discovered by Sonoran miners in the early summer of 1849 and was located about a quarter mile above the two springs of cold water from which the town derived its name. It was the first county seat from Feb. 18, 1850 to Nov. 10. 1851. During this time the town consisted of about a dozen stores, Three Card Monte, Faro tables, a billiard room, hotel and bowling alley. Agua Fria soon declined when in 1852 the town of Mariposa became the seat of government. On June 22, 1866 a fire broke out and destroyed the entire town, and it was never rebuilt.