| Salmon Falls | |
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| — Former settlement — | |
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Salmon Falls
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| Coordinates: | |
| Country | United States |
| State | California |
| County | El Dorado County |
| Elevation[1] | 469 ft (143 m) |
Salmon Falls is a former settlement in El Dorado County, California.[1] It was located on the South Fork of the American River 5.5 miles (9 km) south-southwest of Pilot Hill,[2] at an elevation of 469 feet (143 m).[1] It was flooded by Folsom Lake.[1] Nearby were waterfalls from which the place got its name.[2]
Mining began at Salmon Falls in 1848, and the town was founded in 1850.[2] The post office arrived in 1851, and remained in operation until 1912, with closures during parts of 1875 and 1893.[2]
Salmon Falls, California was an old mining town established along the banks of the American River at the mouth of Sweetwater Creek (northeast of present-day Folsom, California). After the building of Folsom Dam in the 1950's, Salmon Falls is typically immersed in water throughout much of the year. However, at low-water levels old foundations, roads, and the old Salmon Falls Bridge are easily accessible.
Remains from residents at the local cemetery were relocated along with residents of other towns that were flooded after Folsom Dam was built (see Mormon Island).