In 1850 Shaw’s Flat was a lively gold-mining community. Among its most notable miners was James D. Fair, for whom the Fairmont Hotel in San Francisco is named. The Mississippi House, built in 1850, contains many relics, including the original bar and post office with its grill and mail boxes. On a nearby hill stands an old bell given by miners that summoned men to work and announced the governing of various courts. According to tradition, a local bartender supplemented his income by panning gold dust dropped on his muddy boots while serving customers.