It’s been a while since we went to Placerville to take photos. The town got the name Old Hangtown because it was known as a vigilante area. Here’s a bit of history.

The history of Placerville, formerly Hangtown and Old Dry Diggins, has its roots in mining and was once known for its notorious reputation for vigilante justice carried out by hangings. Old Dry Diggins was a gold mining camp on Hangtown Creek established in 1848.

They had hung (pardon the pun) onto the old name until a few years ago when they took down the dummy hanging from a pole where the hanging tree once stood. But the past still lingers. No more hangings; just a small tourist area with old buildings and shops.

Here are photos from our recent visit.

Dog lovers have to have one of these. Found in the Hardware Store.
Does anyone remember the Studebaker cars?

We had a great couple of hours walking Main Street and having lunch. And, yes, we did some shopping!

10 thoughts on “Old Hangtown: Placerville”

  3. That looks like a great town to take photos of Anne. I know I would love it. I love the history, well not love what they did, but that you included it. Not sure I would have liked to live there back then.

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  5. That looks a great town for a wander, and having checked the map I see it’s on one of several possible routes we’re considering for a road trip next year so have made a note to schedule a stop if passing! Thank you for the inspiration 🙂

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