QE 
 90 
 S5C3
 
 V. L. VANDCRHOOF 
 STANFORD UNIVERSITY 
 
 / ? X/^/f r^ 
 
 SKSSION OK 1853. 
 
 PROF. JOHN B. TRASK'S REPORT 
 
 ON THK 
 
 GEOLOGY 
 
 OF THE 
 
 SIERRA NEVADA, OR CALIFORNIA RANGE. 
 
 [GEORGE KF.RR, STATE PRINTER,
 
 \ 
 
 -> ^ * 
 
 \
 
 R EPORT, 
 
 MR. PRESIDENT : 
 
 The Committee, to whom was referred the resolutions calling on Mr. 
 Trask for such information as he may possess relative to the Geology of this 
 State, beg leave to Report 
 
 That they have obtained a valuable document, which treats of the Geolo- 
 gical, and Mineralogical structure and character of some of the most inte- 
 resting portions of our country. 
 
 The document, which we here present, is well worthy the consideration, 
 not only of every member of this Legislature, but our citizens generally. 
 
 The General Government has been very dilatory in reference to such sur- 
 veys and examinations as our State not only deserves, but is entitled to. 
 
 And in obtaining the information which is now placed in the hands of this 
 Senate, we hope that the subject will attract the attention of those most 
 interested in the development of the resources of this country. 
 
 We, therefore, recommend that 2000 copies of the report be printed, and 
 request the Governor to forward several copies of the report and reso^u- 
 tions to the Secretary of the Interior of the United States, hoping that this 
 method will draw the attention of the Honorable Secretary to the subject of 
 a Geological and Mineralogical Survey of this State. 
 
 J. R. SNYDER, 
 
 Chairman of Committee. 
 JOS. WALKUP, 
 J. H. WADE. 
 
 Whereas, Any information connected with the Geology of this State, is of 
 great importance not only to the miner, but to the agriculturalist* and as an
 
 opportunity is now offered through Dr. Trask, (a gentleman who has made 
 a thorough examination of the mineral districts,) by which we may add to 
 the very limited stock of knowledge upon that subject ; therefore. 
 
 Resolved, That a Select Committee of five be appointed to obtain from 
 Dr. Trask such information as he may possess relative to the subject, which 
 if deemed of sufficient importance, will bo reported to the Senate on the 
 sixth day of April next.
 
 ARY 
 
 UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNI 
 SAMTA BARBARA 
 
 GEOLOGICAL REPORT. 
 
 To the Honorable J. R. Snyder, Chairman 
 
 of the Committee on the Geology of the State : 
 
 SIR: 
 
 In compliance with the resolution of the Senate of the State of California, 
 passed March 26th, 1853, calling upon me for such information in relation 
 to the Geology of the State, as I may possess, I have the honor to transmit 
 herewith the following report on the Geology, and productive resources of 
 the State, that have fallen within the line of my reconoisances, which line is 
 embraced within the 36th and 42d degrees of north latitude. 
 
 JOHN B. TRASK.
 
 F> K E F ACE. 
 
 THE object of this report is to present, in a concise manner, a sketch of 
 the Geological Structure, Industrial and Economic Resources of the State, 
 included in the above section named, and which comprises the Mineral Dis- 
 tricts proper, as understood at the present time, and includes portions of the 
 eastern valleys of the Sacramento and San Joaquin, and to the coast line 
 within the 41st and 42d degrees of north latitude. 
 
 Personal observations were made during the autumn and winter of '50 
 and '51, and also of '52, and the entire line of travel was conducted for 
 the most part on foot, for the better purpose of more critical examination. 
 
 Persons unfamiliar with the modifying circumstances affecting the gene- 
 ral characters and positions of rocks, are apt to be often deceived in their 
 perceptions respecting them, consequently, but little assistance can generally 
 be obtained by inquiry respecting the peculiarities that may be present in 
 the various formalions. 
 
 This circumstance is sufficient to show the necessity of personal examina- 
 tion of Districts, in order to deduct legitimate and correct conclusions re- 
 specting them ; and this course was adopted during the examinations that 
 were made in nearly every case. In the remarks that follow in this report, 
 I shall confine myself for the most part, strictly to the Geology of the Dis- 
 trict included, alluding to its Geognosy so far only as will be necessarry for 
 an elucidation of the subject that may be under consideration. 
 
 Researches on the eastern slope of the Rocky Mountain chain will prove 
 of little avail in this State, as we cannot form an opinion from the presenta- 
 tions there made in the various and similar formations of that chain, and 
 more especially, when we find that these similar formations are commingled, 
 disturbed, and changed, by rocks of wjdely different character and compo- 
 sition. 
 
 The necessity then, of studying closely each different group, will become 
 apparent, and at the same time more complex and difficult.
 
 GEOLOGY 
 
 OF THE 
 
 SIERRA NEVADA, OR CALIFORNIA RANGE. 
 
 THE largest portion of the State of California, is comprised between the 
 summits of two distinct ranges of Mountains, denominated the Sierra Ne- 
 vada, or California Range of the Cascades,* and the Coast Range on the 
 west, the more central portion is an extensive valley through which flows 
 the two principal rivers of the country, the Sacramento and San Joaquin. 
 
 The equivalents of the California Range to the north, are the Cascades 
 extending into Oregon ; and its principal lateral spurs, as it approximates 
 the parallel of 42d north latitude, is found in the JSiskiyou Range, which 
 separates from the Cascades at nearly a right angle near the line of 42 20', 
 and pursues a tortuous course to within some eight miles of the coast, in 
 about latitude 41 40' north, at which point it becomes completely merged 
 in the coast line of mountains. 
 
 This spur forms the northern boundary of the Klamath river, as also a 
 large portion of the northern boundary of the State ; and which, with its 
 lateral spurs, forms an interesting and important feature of this portion of 
 the country. 
 
 The principal latteral spur of this range is given off near the line of 122 
 50' west longitude, and pursues a southwest course for sixty or seventy 
 miles, and unites with a similar spur some eight or ten miles south of Mt. 
 Shasta, which has its intersection with the main Siskiyou Mountains in lon- 
 gitude near 128 west ; the Klamath river cuts these two spurs near both 
 of the points designated. Within the triangular space formed by this junc- 
 tion, are extensive valleys, as the Scott and Shasta illustrate. 
 
 The Siskiyou range will maintain an average elevation nearly equivalent 
 
 * Sierra Nevada is inappropriate, according to Lieut. Wilkes' U. S. Ex. Ex., as it blende 
 the principal with part of another. 
 
 2
 
 10 
 
 to the Cascade range for a large portion of its course, and an elevation su- 
 perior by at least one-third to the Sierra Nevada, within the same parallel. 
 The highest portion of the range being found in Mount Shasta and Mount 
 Read, -within fifty miles of the coast. 
 
 These mountains partake, in a great measure, of the general character- 
 istics of the Sierra, but in some points they vary in a material degree. In 
 this particular, they become the more interesting, from the variability of the 
 mineral characteristics which they present, and the prospective of other 
 sources of wealth and economy which no part of the western flank of the 
 Sierra presents. And allusion will be made to these points under their ap- 
 propriate heads. 
 
 Mr. Tyson, in speaking of the California Range, very properly remarks, 
 that " in Geological structure the Sierra Nevada resembles the Andes," 
 and the analogy also holds good in being like the Andes, one great ridge, 
 instead of a chain of ridges, such as constitute the Appalachian Range, and 
 it is to this chain on the Pacific that we can look with anyjhope of success to 
 the development of that article of great economic value, so necessary to the 
 convenience and necessities of the growing wants of our State mineral coal. 
 The altitude of the Sierra has been variously estimated, but its average 
 height is probably within six thousand feet ; while the coast range proper 
 will not attain an altitude that will much exceed three thousand feet through- 
 out its extent. 
 
 The formations which compose, for the most part, the western flank of the 
 Sierra, are hypogene (volcanic) and metamorphic (changed) rocks ; as 
 these make up the greater part of the range, it must not be inferred (as 
 has been done) that, from their similarity of composition, that their upheaval 
 was simultaneous, for the strongest evidences exist that it was far otherwise. 
 In this, as in all other volcanic districts., there was undoubtedly long 
 periods of quiescence or a state, to say the least, that was comparatively 
 quiet, occupying long intervals between the disturbing forces that were in- 
 strumental in developing this portion of the continent. The time that 
 elapsed during the successive periods of elevation which have occurred, is 
 beyond our utmost conception, and we arrive at the fact only through the 
 medium of analogy. 
 
 But although there are periods in our geological history that exceed our 
 utmost comprehension, still there are some evidences that disturbances have 
 occurred at a comparatively recent date, even perhaps during the historic 
 period : but this subject will again be alluded to in the sequel \ 
 
 The characteristics of the volcanic rocks of our mountains are in most 
 cases very uniform, but where discrepant features do arise in the hypogene 
 or metamorphic rocks, it will often be found that local circumstances have 
 exerted a great influence often in those modifications. 
 
 In illustration of this we will cite an instance. It is well known that 
 talcose rocks form a large proportion of the aggregate of the plutonic series 
 of this State. They are found in close proximity with the primary calca- 
 reous formation in many cases ; in other instances, miles distant from the 
 calcareous rocks. 
 
 _ It is a well known fact that intrusive dikes of trap, in passing through 
 limestone, will change the calcareous formation to true talcose rocks ;* and
 
 11 
 
 this occurs in many instances within this State. Hence, we see that a lead 
 of limestone may, under favorable circumstances, be made to assume the 
 form of a volcanic rock, of which the talcose series is a member, and, aa 
 here shown, is also metamorphic. 
 
 This fact should always be kept in view in forming our conclusion in rela- 
 tion to any section of the mineral districts that may be under consideration, 
 'as injury and pecuniary loss would often be sustained in too hasty general- 
 izations on a class of rocks so important as the talcose series of this county, 
 as a source of wealth. 
 
 There can be but little doubt that the southern section of the country was 
 in a state of disturbance long after the more northern section sunk into re- 
 pose, and that for many ages volcanic fires exerted a wide and powerful 
 influence throughout that district long after its emergence. As these fires 
 died out, a long period of repose followed during which the land became 
 inhabited by mamalians of various character and species, some of which were 
 of mammoth size, as their relics at the present day attest. 
 
 During the age that these huge quadrupeds held their uninterrupted sway 
 throughout the land, which was during the tertiary epoch, another convul- 
 sion which fully equaled the former, occurred, and through its fiery ravages 
 swept from existence the entire race that occupied its surface and inhumed 
 their remains beneath its scalding flood. Ages have since rolled by, and it was 
 left for the toiling and industrious miner in his daily avocations to exhume from 
 the bosom of the earth these scattered vestiges of the wreck of former ages. 
 
 We find the most ample evidence of this state of things after passing the 
 Cosumnes river and as far south as the Tuolumne, beyond which as yet no 
 vestige of these animals have been found. 
 
 From all the attendant circumstances it appears that during the period of 
 repose, a large portion of the southern district was covered by water, (proba- 
 bly fresh,) in the form of lakes, and that these animals inhabited their bor- 
 ders. Their remains are found in the diluvial drift at the depth of ten to 
 twenty feet below the surface, and this is covered in most part by a vol- 
 canic tufa, the product of recent volcanic action. 
 
 The other fossils which have been found in these districts are such only 
 as occur among primary limestone and consist of algae, (a sea weed of the 
 lowest order,) which leads us to the conclusion that the rocks which now 
 form the dry land of the interior were formerly submerged beneath the ocean, 
 and have been elevated to their present position through volcanic agency 
 exerted through long and successive periods. 
 
 The district of country between the Cosumnes river and the 40th degree 
 of north latitude, has strong evidence of having been the first that emerged 
 from the ocean, but though the primary section, it presents most indubitable 
 traces of subsequent rupture ; it probably occurred during those periods 
 when the south was in a state of extreme activity, and must have played an 
 important part in modifying the contour of the country. 
 
 These subsequent changes have undoubtedly been much less violent than 
 they otherwise would have been from the opening of two volcanic vents in 
 the northern section near the head waters of Feather river, and in the sum- 
 mit proper west of Noble's pass. One of these was in action January, 1850, 
 and discharged a current of lava which had not cooled in 1852.* 
 
 * Peon also by D r. Wozeneraft.
 
 12 
 
 The evidence of subsequent disturbance was proved beyond a doubt, 
 by the examination of many of our quart/ veins. The occurrence of 
 what is termed the sliekensides in many of these veins, affords us the 
 data on which to found such a conclusion. 
 
 The polished surfaces of these veins for scores of feet in extent, not 
 only indicate the fact of this disturbance, but the striated surfaces point 
 most indubitably to its course and direction. These stria and slickensides 
 may be seen at Union Town, El Dorado county, in the M arthenus mine, 
 to great advantage ; also at Washington and Georgia mines. Quartzburg, 
 Mariposa county. 
 
 The district of country lying north of the 40th degree of north latitude, 
 much resembles in some particulars portions of the south ; but it presents 
 withal strong evidences of greater antiquity than the southern, in many 
 of its parts ; and portions of it were probably contemporaneous with the 
 district south of forty degrees, although there is no probability that all of 
 that section can claim coritemporaneous'origin, for if it did, its formations 
 should in some degree correspond ; whereas on examination, we find dis- 
 crepancies that would seem to warrant us in refeiring them to another 
 period. 
 
 A convenient way, then, would be the arrangement of the mineral 
 district into three classifications, making in these such subdivisions as 
 may be necessary, and under this plan they would present themselves in 
 the following order : 
 
 First Primary or central districts, included between latitude 3S 30' 
 and 40 north. 
 
 Second The northern district, included between 40 and 42 north. 
 
 Third The southern district, included between 38 30' and 36 north 
 latitude. 
 
 I feel fully confident that whenever this State shall be authontively 
 examined, that a similar arrangement will be made, both for convenience 
 and elucidation. 
 
 Under this arrangement, then, I shall speak of the various districts in 
 the order in which they occur. 
 
 FIRST PRIMARY DISTRICT. 
 
 This name may be applied to this section with strict propriety ; first, 
 from the character of its rocks, and secondly from their distribution and 
 association. 
 
 The rocks that compose this district are for the most part primitive, in 
 a geological sense, being composed of granite, porphyry, trap, and other 
 allied rocks, among which the serpentines form no unimportant part. 
 
 The rook that first emerged was undoubtedly the granite, which was 
 ejected from beneath and protuded through the slate, and in many in- 
 stances presents all the appearances of having flowed over the sedemcn- 
 tary formations; in other cases it is protruded as a single dike, often of 
 miles extent, with lateral veins extending into the adjoining rocks. 
 
 There is every reason for this supposition being correct, and but one 
 illustration will be necessary in elucidating it. It is found on examina- 
 tion that the older granite, which forms by far the largest part of this
 
 13 
 
 formation, is cut through and disturbed by almost every other intrusive 
 rock, while of itself it cuts through none, except the older argilaceous 
 slates, which are of aqueous origin. 
 
 It must not be understood by this, that all the granites of the State are 
 of this class, for it is far otherwise, as we have full three distinct series 
 of rock in this country, with corresponding ages ; and each of the other 
 two have been instrumental in a great degree, in causing the disturbances 
 observable in the primary formations. 
 
 Next to the granite, in the primary district, the trapean rocks form an 
 important feature in the character of the country, and occupy a much 
 larger area. 
 
 They are composed principally of the greenstone, trachytes, basalt, 
 and porphyries, and it is to the intrusion of this- group, that the uneven 
 and rough features of the country are attributable in a great measure, and 
 are interesting in a geological point of view, and would in a more elaborate 
 report, demand more attention than our present limits will permit. Allusion 
 to their effect on other rocks will be made under the head of mining. 
 
 The next class that claims our attention is the metamorphoric (changed) 
 rocks, many of which through agency of volcanic heat have become true 
 porphyries; they are largely dev loped on the banks of the rivers of the 
 country, and a great source of annoyance to miners engaged in river 
 mining, as they are extremely tough and difficult to break. 
 
 Closely associated with these are occasionally veius of the original clay 
 slate, from which these porphyries have been formed, holding different 
 grades of induration, passing from a fissile clay slate into a compact rock, 
 often in the distance of a few yards. 
 
 The serpentine rocks are the next in order of the volcanic group ; they 
 are generally intrusive rocks, and are widely distributed throughout the 
 country, and many of them present distinct lines of stratification. They 
 have received (Efferent names from the different forms they assume ; some of 
 them being true shales, of various thickness, consistency and composition. 
 But all of them, in whatever form they may be found, have but the one 
 origin, (volcanic,) though they may receive many modifications from subse- 
 quent causes. 
 
 These rocks, when found in the form of slates particularly, are entitled to 
 more consideration than has been bestowed upon them by the mining com- 
 munity, as repositories of the precious metals. 
 
 It is to this class of rocks, that we are in a great measure indebted for 
 those valuable deposits of gold which the slate contains, as well, also, as the 
 auriferous quartz veins with which they are so frequently combined. It 
 was on these rocks that one of the greatest geologists (Mr. Dana) of the 
 age based his opinion on the probable value of this State as an auriferous 
 district long before the discovery of gold, and subsequent time has demon- 
 strated how correct and just were his opinions ; and yet public opinion, 
 even at this time, has neglected to take cognizance of this class of rocks, 
 so far only as accidental circumstances have thrown them in their way. I 
 think tlutf no hazard would be incurred by expressing the opinion that this 
 class of rocks will bo found, in many cases, the prolific sources of wealth in 
 the future, equalled only by the auriferous quartz, and excelled by none. 
 This class of rocks, or those known by the name of chlorite, which is but a
 
 14 
 
 variety of this group, is represented in Mariposa County, at the locality 
 kimwii as lirar Valley; and a sufficient illustration of its value, will be 
 found in the excitement that prevailed on its discovery. Moccasin Creek, 
 four miles south of -Stevenson's Bar, Tuolumne County, and river, is also 
 another point at which they may be studied with advantage. 
 
 This is but two of many instances in which the auriferous deposits have 
 been developed in this class of rocks ; and when found, it is as much an 
 intcrgral of the formation containing it, as the thread of gold that permeates 
 the vein of quartz. 
 
 In addition to its containing gold, as an integral part, when unassociated 
 with the veins of quartz, it frequently becomes the retaining medium of this 
 metal Avhen in contact with those veins. Hence has arisen much loss to 
 parties who have engaged in that later branch of industrial employment, 
 from the neglect of attention to this important point : but we shall advert 
 to this point more particularly when the subject of Quartz Mining engages 
 our attention. 
 
 The sedimentary rocks of this district are of three kinds : 1st Argelitc 
 Slates, (clay slate ;) 2d Conglomerates, (pudding stone ;) 3d Sand 
 Stone : the two last occupying the smallest area. 
 
 The sandstone formation is evidently the most recent of this group, and in 
 some parts of this district is fossiliferous, this being the only point of im- 
 portance attached to it, and this only in a scientific point of view, as a mat- 
 ter of economy or practical interest it will not, therefore, claim our further 
 attention. 
 
 The principal localities in which it is found to contain imbedded fossils, 
 are upon the Butte and Chico Creeks, and near Rich and Reeve's Bars on 
 the first named creek, and the fossils are of the Miocene period, and the bed 
 of sand stone rests on a metamorphosed slate, which is in some parts por- 
 phyritic. 
 
 The argelite rocks of the district, will command more of our attention than 
 either of the other members of this group ; first, from its superiority as a 
 member of the group, though it is inferior as to position. The degradation 
 of those rocks, form an important feature in the characteristics of the valley 
 bottoms, and a sparsity or surplus of its debris, would, as a consequence, en- 
 hance or diminish the capabilities of the soil for agriculture ; hence an atten- 
 tive examination of the valley sections is imperatively demanded, in order to 
 form a correct estimate of the capabilities of the soil in 'the great branch of 
 national wealth, and prosperity agriculture. 
 
 When the necessary examinations are instituted to develop this desirable 
 end, we shall find that those portions of the valleys that are for six months 
 of the year a semi-desert, and unfit for the habitation of man or beast, can 
 be made, by the use of proper measures, to produce the 'cereals in as great 
 abundance and profit as other localities, apparently, more favorably situated. 
 Under the head of agriculture, this part of our subject will be more fully 
 considered. 
 
 The distribution of this series from the foot hills to near the summit of the 
 range, is but a proof of the influence it has, and still exerts in modifying the 
 general characteristics of the country. Its universality throughout the min- 
 ing sections, either in situ, or in the form of debris, points to the important 
 part it has played by the retentive principle it contains in preventing the
 
 15 
 
 wider dispersion of the golden deposits of our hills and rivers ; and it has 
 been suggested, within the past year, that a large portion of this group will, 
 at some future day, be mined for the gold they contain, mechanically, as 
 well as other rocks that contain this metal as an integral. How soon this 
 may take place, it would be improper to suppose at this time, but the pre- 
 mises on which the suggestion is based, are tenable. 
 
 The conglomerates of this district will next be considered. These rocks 
 toward the valley appear to be co-extensive with the argelite, and from their 
 position, it is inferred that their formation was posterior to the slates ; in the 
 more mountainous districts they appear in isolated masses, and in small 
 patches, rendering their study less certain. In the lower foot-hills, in many 
 places, the group in situ is wanting, and in its place low rolling gravelly 
 hills are the only vestiges that mark the localities it formerly occupied. The 
 causes of this absence in the group is found in the outcrop of heavy masses 
 of trapean rock near the borders of the valley in these sections. 
 
 These older conglomerates have but little interest connected with them, 
 further than geological position is concerned, except the modifying influence 
 they exert through their debris on the formation of the valley sections ; but 
 there is a belt of these rocks in other parts of the country that will be enti- 
 tled to much more and particular consideration. 
 
 Having now described the principal rocks of the primary district, we will 
 now pass to the consideration of the rocks of the northern district. To 
 avoid repetition, in our subject, in relation to its rocks, we will now state 
 that in addition to those noticed in the primary, the northern section con- 
 tains some few that should command attention in, an economic view, so far 
 as relates more particularly to their prospective value. 
 
 The first of these rocks that will claim our attention, is a hard silicious 
 rock known by the common name of mill-stone, but in technical language 
 Buhr-stone. This rock abounds on the Pitt river in large quantities, and 
 also on to the north of Goose Lake, its admirable adaptation to milling re- 
 quires no comment. The value of this rock cannot be too highly esteemed 
 in this State, where the prospective is so flattering of its becoming a grain 
 growing country, equalled by few on the Atlantic slope. The heavy ex- 
 penses that are now incurred, and the future wants of the State in this par- 
 ticular will be obviated, and our dependent condition on foreign import de- 
 stroyed. These rocks have, as yet, attracted little notice, but the rapidly 
 increasing wants of the State will ere long bring them into requisition. In 
 addition to the buhr- stone of this district, this section of the country con- 
 tains some few traces of the secondary rocks, a suite almost entirely wanting, 
 with this exception, in this country, so far as at present explored. 
 
 The existence of any portion of this suite should command our every at- 
 tention, and any measure that will be likely to develop this formation, or 
 any part of it within the limits of this State, should meet the approbation 
 and support of the community at large. The importance attached to this 
 group, at the present time in this country, is found in the fact, that it is to 
 this suite that we must look for a home supply of the mineral coals, if ever 
 found within the limits of our State. 
 
 As these rocks, (in form of secondary conglomerate,) have exhibited 
 themselves in the northern districts, and in those parts of the section most 
 immediately connected with the.coast line of mountains, it is to be hoped
 
 16 
 
 that judicious^explorations in"*that range may develop its existence, either 
 near those points alluded to, or in other and more distant parts of the range. 
 
 From the structure of the country, it is to be doubted -whether any other 
 position than the above named, presents the slightest ground for hope that 
 this necessary material of comfort and economy will be found in other parts 
 than those indicated ; every effort, then, compatible with prudence should be 
 made that will[tend to elicit information on this important topic. 
 
 The frequent discovery of small patches of the mineral coal in those moun- 
 tains, would seem to lend aid to the suggestion that its development in this 
 range may be looked for with more confidence than at any other points, and 
 a judiciously conducted examination is the only means that can be confidently 
 looked to for this desirable end. 
 
 Aside from the two points alluded to, the northern district comports itself 
 in the major part of its formations with the primary district, and varies from 
 it only in a few minor particulars noticed in the sequel. 
 
 SOUTHERN DISTRICT. 
 
 This district, according to our arrangement, is included within the thirty- 
 sixth parallel and thirty-eighth degrees thirty minutes north latitude, and 
 includes all that portion of the country denominated the Southern Mines, 
 as well, also, as its valleys. The southern district, like the other two, con- 
 tains many rocks in common. 
 
 In addition to these, there are also other formations, which differ widely 
 from either of the other districts, which we shall notice in the same manner 
 as heretofore, as our limits will not permit otherwise. 
 
 The first that will claim our attention will be the principal volcanic rocks, 
 and among these the basaltic rocks will find the first place. It has been 
 observed that the northern and primary districts contained these rocks, and 
 it must now be noticed that the southern section contain them in a preeminent 
 degree, compared to either of the others. Their principal northern outcrop 
 commences near the sources of the Mokelmnne, and extend almost uninter- 
 rupted for seventy or eighty miles south, having a mean breadth of ten to 
 fifteen miles, and frequently extending much farther to the west, even to the 
 foot-hills in some cases. The hills on the borders of the valley west of the 
 Bear Mountains, Calaveras County, furnish an instance. 
 
 These rocks are well developed about the region of Bear Valley, Maripo- 
 sa County, on the ridge to the east of this locality. At this place they 
 may be found in several of the forms they assume, as the dolorite am- 
 dygdaloid, columnar basalt and greenstone. 
 
 The effects of such large masses of volcanic rocks on the sedimentary 
 formations through which they have protruded has been great, as would 
 naturally suggest itself, and we find many of those formations completely 
 metamorphosed, as might be anticipated. The rocks are entitled to consid- 
 eration in two points, particularly. One is the results that are likely to 
 ensue from the passage of these rocks through the sedimentary formation, 
 and is the production or development of mineral veins, consisting, most 
 commonly, of the metals copper, silver, &c. It is generally true that these
 
 17 
 
 are raOst abundant in the older system of rocks, but this is not always the 
 ca^T 
 
 J3y close examination of the mining districts of the world, our best geol- 
 ogists have announced the fact, that rich metallic districts are dependant on 
 the proximity of igneous rocks and axes of disturbance among sedimentary 
 formations, and every subsequent observation has tended to confirm this 
 theory. 
 
 On comparing metallic accumulations among, the igneous rocks, it is 
 found they are most abundant in the underlying porphyries, amygdaloids 
 and trap rock, as well also the syenites. This condition, and the probable 
 value of these rocks as a future source of wealth, will be fully compre- 
 ' bended when we observe that the metalliferous regions of the Andes are of 
 this same character, and the outbursts of trap through its tertiary forma- 
 tions., are but a simple illustration of the condition of our own. 
 
 The second point of general importance, in relation to these rocks, is 
 their value in modifying, from their composition, other earths with which 
 they may be combined. Too much importance cannot be attached to this 
 point, for it is through this agency that a large portion of our soil is ren- 
 dered valuable for agriculture, and I hope I may not be charged with sec- 
 tional feeling when I say, that in this lies one of the grand secrets of the 
 superiority of the bottoms of the southern sections, coupled with the debris 
 of the calcareous formations which also lie to the east of these valleys. 
 
 The next important volcanic products that will claim our attention is the 
 large extent of volcanic tufa that covers superficially an extensive area of 
 country in its aggregate. 
 
 This tufaceous deposit becomes most fully defined as an overflowing mass 
 on the ridge that forms the south bank of the Mokelumne, and is found in 
 nearly all the districts to the east and south as far as the Stanislaus. It 
 was very properly denominated a volcanic brecia by Mr. Tyson, on the first 
 named ridge, though in other sections it loses this character. This deposit 
 covers the diluvial drift in many places, as well also the large mammalian 
 remains that have been exhumed within the last two years. It is interest- 
 ing and important, as it points to volcanic action at a comparatively recent 
 date. 
 
 Since its deposit, strong floods have operated in these sections, (which 
 were probably pent up waters, forming lakes in the interior,) as the out- 
 liers of the surrounding hills fully indicate, as well also as the extensive 
 table-lands that formed its shores. The towns of Vallecito, Murphy's, 
 Douglass' Flat, and the vicinity of Sonora, furnish most admirable examples 
 of the former existence of lakes in these sections. This tufa overlies the 
 drift that contains the auriferous deposit of these placers, to the depth, in 
 some cases, of one hundred feet, and even greater. 
 
 Primary Lime-stone. Notice of this rock has been deferred until this 
 time, from the fact that it occupies a much greater area in the southern 
 sections. Its extent may be said to be included between the American and 
 Merced rivers, and following a line deflected but a' few degrees from the 
 parallelism of the chain, this line is not continuous, but is broken at short 
 intervals, at times by the intrusions of volcanic rocks, at others being cover- 
 ed by alluvion in common with the covering of the hills. 
 3
 
 18 
 
 Its situation appears to be not far from midway between the foot-hills 
 ami summit proper of the range. 
 
 This suite of rocks has been tapped in many points, and a highly remune- 
 rative business is now conducted in preparing lime for the market, and its 
 finer qualities for ornamental architecture. This formation is capable of 
 producing varieties of marble that it will be difficult to excel from almost 
 any part of the world. The town of Volcano, Calaveras county, affords a 
 wide field for operation in this branch, and the beauty of the Ringgold mar- 
 ble requires no comment at this time. 
 
 There are many other places, too numerous to mention, in which a pro- 
 fitable business can and will be conducted in this branch of industry. Some 
 portions of the more northern sections contain this rock in quantities sufficient 
 for all the probable prospective wants of these sections. It is found in the 
 Yubas, near the Slate range, arid on the Feather River near the Rich Bar, 
 and Sucker Ripple ; and also in other localities in these districts. The Sal- 
 mon, and other streams in the extreme north, also furnish it. 
 
 The southern district contains also a very recent conglomerate, the dis- 
 turbance of which was, probably, attributable to the more recent convulsions 
 that have been in action in these sections. It possesses but little interest, 
 further than the testimony it may furnish, in a scientific view, in elucidating 
 the early and later history of this portion of the continent ; it will, therefore, 
 be dismissed with this brief allusion. 
 
 Recent Sandstone. Between the Merced and Tuolumne rivers there ex- 
 ists a bed of recent sandstone, which is, probably, nearly or quite cotempo- 
 raneous with the last named conglomerate. This formation underlies the 
 principal portion of the ground between those two rivers for a long distance 
 to the west, hence during the rainy season this district is much more firm 
 and dry, and it is a point eagerly sought for by the teamsters at this season. 
 and for the most obvious of reasons. It finds a place in this report more 
 for the purpose of illustration, than otherwise, and also as a recuperative 
 agent for some points of the adjoining districts, to be spoken of under the 
 head of agriculture. 
 
 In review of the subject before us, we find that there are evidences of at 
 least three successive periods in which this portion of the continent has been 
 involved, the three periods of upheaval being interrupted by long periods of 
 repose. 
 
 In the second upheaval the larger portion of the extreme northern district 
 was developed, which was, probably, nearly contemporaneous with the de- 
 velopment of the south. A long interval of equiescence is here manifest, 
 during which the land became inhabited by mammals of varied species. 
 
 In the third, we find that these species were obliterated, and their remains 
 lie buried beneath the evident causes of their destruction. 
 
 Fourth. The granite appears to have been the first of the volcanic group, 
 and that it broke through the slate. The other trapean rocks appearing 
 within the latter part of the first period. 
 
 Fifth. The older granite appears disturbed by more recent rocks, as 
 well ul .0 as by more ire-rut granites of the same species. In this particular 
 the granite suite resembles the Heidelberg, presenting three distinct veins 
 of different ages.
 
 19 
 
 Sixth. The serpentine rocks many of them appear to have been cotem- 
 pomneous with the second period of disturbance, as is shown by their cutting 
 through the older rocks. 
 
 Seventh. \Ve are led to infer from the manner in which the trapean, and 
 other volcanic rocks, have forced their way through the sedimentary forma- 
 tions, that these rocks mus* prove metalliferous, as analogy and experience 
 have proved in other parts of the world. Time will not permit to discuss the 
 local geology of the State in a separate and distinct subject ; it will, there- 
 fore, be considered under the head of mining resources, which we shall now 
 attempt to elucidate. 
 
 MIXING RESOURCES. 
 
 Under this head will be included all those branches of employment within 
 the district alluded to, as well also as those which must, from the nature 
 of attendant circumstances, find a place in the history of our resources. 
 
 First in order will be the mineral lands, or those which contain gold. 
 These will be divided into two classes : First Those at present occupied ; 
 and Second Those unoccupied, and, from present circumstances, unavaila- 
 ble. 
 
 The first class comprehends ah 1 those lands within the mountain districts 
 which are situated on the rivers and higher valleys, also in the ravines and 
 mountain gorges of the western flank of the range. 
 
 The range that they occupy through the country may be approximately 
 stated to be not far from fifty miles in breadth by about three hundred and 
 fifty in length ; a small proportion of this, however, can be considered 
 mining ground probably about one-third. Within the mining districts 
 proper there are large quantities of land which are known to contain gold, 
 and in quantities sufficient to warrant considerable expenditure of capital 
 for the purposes of mining in future. These lands are not, at the present 
 moment, available, from the want of that necessary agent, water ; and it 
 remains but to be seen that capital investments in hydraulic operations 
 in this country is a safe and profitable source of income, and the unem- 
 ployed moneys of the Atlantic States, Europe, and our own State, will 
 seek and find a ready market in the various branches to which this source 
 of profit will give rise. A longer period than the present year will not 
 be required to demonstrate this fact, either for good or ill. The present 
 year will be productive of results that cannot fail to convince the most 
 incredulous of the value of those untouched resources of which it has been 
 our pride to boast, and in the full consciousness of truth. Nearly all 
 those companies that are at present in but partial operation, have demon- 
 strated the utility of the system ; and from what we have already seen, 
 even in their immature state, we may confidently anticipate what the 
 future will be, when those operations arrive at completion. Should they 
 prove of one-half the value they now promise, the area within the mineral 
 districts proper that would be open to those operations, now unemployed 
 and useless from the want of water, and which arc known to contain gold 
 in profitable quantities, will nearly equal the present area employed. 
 
 It will require then, on these premises, no great tension of the imagina-
 
 20 
 
 tion to discern, that within the next two years our mining sections must 
 contain a population full one-half greater than they at present occupy. 
 This estimate is exclusive of those discoveries which have been made within 
 the last six months, and which only confirm the opinion formerly entertained, 
 that the placers existed in sections remote from those now known. These 
 later discoveries are situated mostly in the northern district, and the only 
 obstacle presented to their profitable occupancy is large numbers of hostile 
 Indians in these vicinities, particularly in and about the regions of Pitt 
 river It will be sufficient to state, that the unoccupied placers within the 
 mineral districts proper are co-extensive with the mineral range now occu- 
 pied. This unoccupied mineral land may properly be divided into two dis- 
 tinct sections, and to this second section we would now call your attention. 
 
 SECOND SECTION. 
 
 This district of county is situated in the lower foot-hills, and immediately 
 on the eastern edge of the valley, it maintains a very uniform width of 
 about four miles, and is almost uninterrupted throughout the principal por- 
 tion of the valley district. A large part of the mineral section of Sacra- 
 mento County is a true example of these sections, though the principal 
 range alluded to is a short distance west of those parts in which mining 
 operations are conducted in this county at the present time. 
 
 This district is strongly marked throughout its entire extent, and the 
 transition either from the valley or mineral district proper is such as cannot 
 fail to attract the attention of the most careless traveller in passing over it. 
 It will recur to the mind of every one who has passed from the rivers to 
 the interior, that at the distance of some twelve or fourteen miles from the 
 streams, that you enter very suddenly a district thickly covered with annu- 
 lar pebbles of quartz ; the district is scarcely less than two miles in width 
 in any part of it, and in some localities much wider. On reaching the 
 eastern verge of the valley, the transition is equally sudden as in the first 
 instance ; the angular pebbles disappear, and a few round pebbles, mixed 
 with alluvion, replace them, for a short distance, which is immediately suc- 
 ceeded by the outcrop of what has been denominated the " gravestone " 
 slate, from the appearance they present of a ruined churchyard, in nearly 
 all the lower hills on the eastern edge of the valley. From what the author 
 has seen of this district, I feel no hesitancy in saying that it must in a 
 few years become the field of busy and extensive mining ; and I think this 
 opinion will meet the concurrence of those persons who are intimately ac- 
 quainted with the localities named, and engaged in these operations at the 
 present time within their limits, although these operations arc comparatively 
 limited at present. Rhodes' Diggings, Sacramento County, and Ousley's 
 Bar, Yuba County, are on the eastern verge of this range, and Neal's Dig- 
 gings, on Butte Creek, Butte County, also, and to those who are acquainted 
 with these localities we would respectfully submit the opinion advanced. 
 
 It is not to be understood that this section of country will prove so highly 
 productive in a short space of time as the more superficial and richer deposits 
 of the interior sections, nor can it be with any degree of propriety expected. 
 But as a compensatory principle they will possess the double advantage of 
 beiug much more accessible and yielding a lower but far more continued re-
 
 21 
 
 numeration for labor, and a surer prospect of success. A more healthy and 
 stable condition of the mining population will be the result of bringing these 
 lands into successful operation ; a desideratum much desired in this country. 
 
 QUARTZ MIXIXG. 
 
 This subject will next claim our attention, and our brevity on the subject 
 will be found in our limited time. 
 
 In speaking of the rocks that compose our mountains, this formation was 
 intentionally omitted, and a brief description of this group, therefore, will be 
 given at this time. The quartz formation forms an important point in the 
 various groups that abound in this country ; not so much in proportion of its 
 masses, as they are small when compared with almost any other member of 
 the plutonic series. The comparative range of country which they pass 
 through cannot be considered as amounting to more than one twelfth (1-12) 
 of the width of the mountain range. The area that it occupies is also very 
 small, compared to the rocks tley pass through, being composed of small 
 veins and dikes, cutting other formations, both igneous and sedimentary. 
 The largest masses of the rock is found in the form known as dikes, which 
 are at times nearly continuous above the surface for miles, in other cases in- 
 terrupted on the surface at short distances. The largest dike ever observed 
 by the author did not exceed forty yards in width, while the principal forma- 
 tion adjacent, and through which it passed, was nearly as many miles. It 
 must not be understood by this that the amount of its aggregate is trifling, 
 except in a comparative view to other formations, for its veins are found in 
 most of the other rocks of the country, and as variable in size as in numbers. 
 
 The rocks throughout the country present many and distinct phases. On 
 close examination they are found to be a disturbing and intrusive rock, while 
 in other cases a feature the reverse is presented, they being disturbed by 
 other rocks ; and still another feature is often present, and frequently in the 
 same locality ; thus it is, that some veins appear to have been unaffected, 
 while adjacent veins are much disturbed and broken down. 
 
 With these premises before us, it would seem impossible to refer the en- 
 tire group to one period, for the facts presented would remain unexplained, 
 while many of the attendant discrepancies that have attached themselves to 
 those operations which have resulted in loss and disappointment to the ad- 
 venturers in this branch of mining, will in a great measure be found refer- 
 able to these probable differences in the ages of these rocks. 
 
 I flatter myself that this opinion will be sustained ultimately, if not at 
 present, by the community at large, and by scientific miners of other coun- 
 tries, as well as by subsequent examinations in this country. 
 
 The opinioii that all metallic veins are referable to one age, which was 
 formerly entertained in England, is fast losing ground before the march of 
 scientific research, and the practical miners of this country now study the re- 
 lative age of the formation, and form their estimates of its value very much 
 on this basis. 
 
 It is found that there are eight distinct series of veins in some of the min- 
 ing districts of England, and that these veins vary in value according to their 
 relative age and position. It is made a practical point of examination be-
 
 22 
 
 fore entering on mining speculations in this country, to ascertain the relative 
 ;j metallic vein before entering in the enterprise of extensive opera- 
 tions. We would, therefore, surest the following proposition in relation to 
 the auriferous veins of this country. 
 
 That the value of these veins will be found in the relative age wldch 
 they maintain to the rocks with ivldch the// are found ih connection, being 
 modified as their passage is found to be through igneous or sedimentary rocks. 
 
 This suggestion is made, in the hope that less disappointment may be ex- 
 perienced by those who seek a profitable and laudable employment in those 
 branches of industry, and also to check, in some measure, those hasty and 
 inconsiderate generalizations that once promised to blast the most brilliant 
 prospects of the State. Two years since, this opinion was maintained and 
 also made public, and the estimate then made of the probable fate of a large 
 portion of those Avho had embarked in these speculations was predicated, in 
 part, on these grounds. How far that prognosis has proved true, the pub- 
 lic can best judge. Another, and an important point in this subject, is the 
 association of the metal with other minerals in the vein. A large portion of 
 the gold in these veins is frequently combined with other minerals, most of 
 which are of a compound character as the oxides of iron, and also its sul- 
 phurets, (pyrites)'! 
 
 It must be seen then, that one general and indiscriminate treatment of 
 ores must not only prove annoying in the results that are obtained, but highly 
 disastrous in the extraction of the metal, for the process that would relieve 
 the metal in one case, would .only serve to fix its investing matrix more 
 closely in the other. Hence has arisen much of the discredit to this branch 
 of mining and pecuniary losses. This has been sustained from the neglect 
 in making the necessary selections of ores from the same vein, and applying 
 the same treatment for each variety. The experience in this branch of min- 
 ing of the past eighteen months, has demonstrated too truly and sadly that 
 those methods heretofore adopted cannot be pursued with profit, but on the 
 contrary, that certain loss must be the result of this system, too hastily en- 
 tered upon, and too thoughtlessly pursued in whatever branches of industry 
 it may be applied. 
 
 But from the failure that has been experienced in this case, it would be 
 unjust ever to infer that these metallic rocks do not possess the equivalents 
 of wealth chat a reasonable estimate has plac3d upon them, by men whose 
 judgments have been unbiassed and unswerved by the over-heated infatua- 
 tion that has too often prevailed here, and elsewhere, in relation to this sub- 
 ject. The best proofs of fast returning confidence in these richest of our 
 resources, is found in the large amounts of foreign and home capital that is 
 now seeking opportunity of investment in them, showing most clearly, that 
 the denouncements that have been piled upon them were based upon false 
 premises, and are so considered abroad. In addition to this, a local demon- 
 stration goes to support this position, and exerts a wide spread influence, 
 which serves to give weight to the above. It is known that parties who 
 have suffered severe losses by embarking in these operations, still feel con 
 fident of success, and still hold those veins, feeling fully assured of their real 
 value, although with their present means they are unable to proceed at the 
 present time with success. 
 
 There are but few of these veins that can be purchased from the original
 
 23 
 
 holders, for anything like moderate prices, and those that are in second 
 hands, are equally firm. No true barometer of public opinion can be found 
 of their value than is indicated even under such apparent!/ depressed cir- 
 cumstances. 
 
 The next metal that will engage our attention is 
 
 PLATINUM. 
 
 This metal appears as widely distributed as gold, there is scarcely a sec- 
 tion of the country, in which gold has been found, but that this metal also 
 has been discovered. This fact would lead us to suppose, that from the 
 commercial value of the metal in its crude State, being about one half that 
 of gold, that it may at some future day be sought for, as an article of com- 
 mercial export, among the exhausted placers of the country. It is to be 
 regretted that a more intimate acquaintance with this metal, among those 
 engaged in the mining districts, does not exist, as I feel fully confident that 
 the value of our mines would be enhanced nearly 25 per cent, by its col- 
 lection. 
 
 A description of the metal would not lead to its detection, as it is so fre- 
 quently combined with other minerals that closely resemble it, and would be 
 easily overlooked. We shall, therefore, dismiss it by noticing the localities 
 where it has been observed. 
 
 It occurs on Salmon river, in the drift that contains the gold, in small 
 round grains of a steel-grey ; also on the South Fork of the Trinity about 
 eight miles from its junctions. On Butte Creek, near Reeves' Bar : On 
 Honcut Creek, imbedded in gold, between the North and South Forks, and 
 also in the placers between there and Feather river. On Canon Creek of 
 Butte County ; on Middle Fork of American river ; on Calaveras river asso- 
 ciated with small garnets in the drift; on' Wood's Creek; at Gold Flat, 
 Nevada, with iridium and osmium, and small crystals of rutile at the bot- 
 of the shafts. 
 
 This wide dispersion of this metal, through this country, would indicate 
 that at some future day it may be made a source of profit. 
 
 SILVER. 
 
 This metal has been found in several of the mines that have been opened 
 in this State, all of them, thus far, situated in the southern district. It 
 was first met with in a distinct vein, running parallel with a vein of gold, 
 in the South Carolina mine, at Carson Hill. At this place I obtained a fine 
 specimen. I was informed of its being found in the Old Dominion mine, 
 beside the above, and north of it, and also in the Relief Mine, south of it. 
 The New York Mining Company, on the opposite side of the river at :! 
 Hill, was the next i i which it made its appearance. At the Chilean Mine, 
 two miles north ( 'o'u nbi.i, it occurs, associated with copper and' gold in 
 quart/, in the form ;f sulimuret ; also Frazer's mine, twelve miles east of 
 Sonora, with galena and zinc-blende in the same rock. At these localities 
 it is generally disseminated through the quartz.
 
 1M 
 
 At the Washington and Georgia mine, Quarteburg, in Mariposa County, 
 
 I observed this metal in the form of ruby-blende in the vein-stone contain- 
 ing the gold, and when the metallic gold appeared, it was a little lighter in 
 color than common evidently 7 from a slight alloy of the two metals. 
 
 This metal in other countries has proved a great and important source of 
 wealth. From its casual occurrence in our mines, and its evident tendency 
 of increase ; as you advance south from the Stanislaus, there is just reason 
 to hope that it may, in this country, become the source of wealth and profit. 
 
 COPPER. 
 
 This metal is much more widely distributed than the silver, through the 
 western flank of the range. Commencing on the extreme north, it is found 
 on the North Fork of the Trinity, a short distance from its confluence with 
 the main stream, in a metallic state, in crystals and masses. The vein cuts 
 both sides of the river, but its entire extent is not known. Vitreous copper 
 is found adjoining, and also malachite. It occurs on both the Middle and 
 South forks of Feather river, in the form of carbonate ; also between Xe- 
 vada and Grass Valley, near the Half-way House, and in many parts of 
 the southern mines. I cannot speak with certainty in respect to the ores 
 of this metal in the coast range, having never seen them ; but judging 
 irom the character of the ores which have been brought from there, we 
 feel warranted in believing that it exists in large quantities, but subsequent 
 exploration must alone determine this point. The varieties of ore which we 
 have seen from these sections, are of that character that would make their 
 reduction easy, if they exist in sufficient quantities to warrant investment. 
 
 CHROMIUM. 
 
 I would invite your attention particularly to the ores of this metal, inas- 
 much as from its appearance in lajge quantities in some sections of the State, 
 and the extensive distribution of the serpentine rocks to which it is also in- 
 cident, we may expect, with a great degree of confidence, that it will be 
 largely developed within our borders. It is an article of great commercial 
 importance throughout the civilized world. Its principal use in the arts, is 
 for the coloring of porcelain, dyeing, and as a pigment. The fine chrome 
 yellow so highly prized, is manufactured from this mineral. Nearly all the 
 chrome used in the world, is produced from the mines of the United States. 
 The Shetland Isles producing the next largest amount. The principle local- 
 ity, and we might savncarlv the only one on the Atlantic border from which 
 this mineral is derived, is at the Bare Hills near Baltimore, and this affords 
 the supply of the world. ' 
 
 The greatest amount that can be obtained from all sources at present 
 known, is about 2000 tons, though the market would consume a much larger 
 amount could it be obtained. From the limited supply in the market, the 
 public will, at no distant day, be directed to its development in this State. 
 So soon as cheap and rapid' means of communication is obtained with the 
 interior of the State, this ore will probably become an article of export to a
 
 25 
 
 large Extent, to China, and the Atlantic States, and England. It would be 
 unnecessary to make it an article of export even, unless its reduction would 
 prove too expensive in this State, on account of the high price of labor, for 
 ample material usually exists in its vicinity for this purpose. 
 
 The high prices of the various manufactures from this mineral cannot fail 
 to attract attention to its further development ; and I feel that the value of 
 the mineral will be sustained, when we say, that its market price in the state 
 of rough ore, will equal the product of our best ores of gold in their ave- 
 rage, being about $80 per ton. It has maintained this price very uniformly 
 for a number of years. 
 
 This mineral is found in veins and masses running through serpentine 
 rocks. These masses are often large, weighing from 60 to 80 pounds, and 
 smaller, and generally disseminated through the rock and upon its surface. 
 
 The finest specimens the author has ever seen, have been found in this 
 country, and m some localities in large quantities. A striking feature in 
 the country that abounds in this mineral, among the serpentine formations, 
 is the peculiar bareness of the immediate district compared to other sur- 
 rounding sections, and an individual once observing it, would scarcely fail to 
 recognize its characteristics even at a considerable distance. 
 
 The principle localities that have been observed as abounding in this min- 
 eral, are upon Nelson Creek near its junction with Feather river, in frag- 
 mentary masses. On the ridge, between the North and Middle Forks of 
 the American, in small fragments ; on Bear river four miles above Anson's 
 Ferry ; in the Cayota Diggins, near Nevada ; and on Deer Creek, two 
 miles below the City of Nevada. 
 
 It is at this last named locality that its attendant peculiarities may be 
 most conveniently studied. It occurs here in large amorphous masses of 
 twenty to fifty pounds weight, scattered, over a low range of hills of some 
 four to six miles in extent. The mineral would be easily mistaken, by the 
 passing traveller, for large fragments of some of the darker trap rocks, or 
 dark porphyries. 
 
 It is very dense, and possesses a semi-metallic lustre. Rolled fragments 
 are often found of considerable weight on the banks of the creek in the 
 vicinity. My attention was first directed to this mineral by Mr. Henry Prat- 
 ten, who is at the present time connected with the Geological State Survey 
 of Illinois, and formerly of the Minnesota Survey, by the United States. 
 
 In what follows, relating to other minerals observed in my tour through 
 the country, I shall confine myself to the principal ores only, and their lo- 
 calities, unassociated with their different varieties, as the limits of this re- 
 port will not permit of more elaborate detail. 
 
 Commencing with the auriferous group. Among the auriferous rocks we 
 find 
 
 Talc at Central Company Mine, Marthenas Creek. 
 Chlorite Volcano Mine, Middle Fork, American. 
 Talc Dry Creek, El Dorado County. 
 Chlorite Angels. 
 
 Peroxide Iron Coyote Mountains, Sonora. 
 Heavy Spar Armagosa Mines, Desert. 
 Arsenical Pyrites head of Bear river. 
 4
 
 2G 
 
 Argentiferous Galena, . . Frazer's. 
 
 Zinc-Blende and Arsenic, . do. 
 
 Sulphuret Silver and Malachite, , Columbia. 
 
 MISCELLANEOUS. 
 
 Marble, white, 
 
 do. clouded, 
 
 do. variegated, 
 
 do. jet, 
 
 do. white, 
 
 Oxide of Iron and gold, . 
 Arsenical Pyrites, . 
 Foliated Graphite, 
 Marble, . 
 
 Arsenical Pyrites in Argefite, 
 "Vitreous Copper, 
 Silicate do. r 
 Carbonate do., 
 Franklinite,. 
 Jasper, 
 
 do., 
 Carbonate Copper, . 
 
 do. do., 
 
 Sienitic Granite, 
 Augite do., 
 
 do. do., 
 Scoria, . 
 Sienite, 
 
 Peroxide Iron, . 
 Peroxide Manganese, 
 Cinnabar, . 
 
 u 
 
 Petrifactions, 
 
 Lignite, 
 
 Molybdenum, 
 
 Fossil Leaves, . ' . 
 
 " Lichens, 
 Pitch Stone, 
 
 a it 
 
 Mammalian Fossils^ teeth? 
 
 RinggolcL 
 
 do. 
 
 do. 
 
 do. 
 
 Volcano. 
 Frazer's. 
 
 do. 
 
 Amidor. 
 Deer Creek. 
 Eagle Hill. 
 Carson's Hill. 
 
 do. 
 
 Columbia. 
 Stanislaus River. 
 Volcano. 
 Talbot's Hill. 
 Round Tent. 
 
 Grass Valley. 
 
 a a 
 
 Anson's, Bear River. 
 Auburn Creek. 
 Sugar Loaf, Nevada. 
 Half-way House. 
 Deer Creek. 
 Deer Creek. 
 
 tl it 
 
 Yuba River.. 
 Talbot's Hill. 
 Nevada. 
 
 American River. 
 West Hill, Nevada. 
 Nevada. 
 
 Wade's Creek. 
 Sugar Loaf, Nevada, 
 Double Springs. 
 Sonora. 
 
 Douglas's Flat. 
 Murphy's. 
 Vine Springs..
 
 27 
 
 Fossil Shells, Miocene, . ButteTCreek. 
 
 " " " . . . Chico. 
 
 Magnetic Iron, . * El Dorado and^Placer Go's- 
 
 Obsidian, . . " . Butte County. 
 Peperino, 
 
 Emerald, , Vallieita. 
 
 Rock Salt, . . . Near Sonora. 
 
 Ossiferous Cavern on Wade's Creek, containing human bones, teeth of 
 the Wild Boar, and other animals. There are other caverns of considerable 
 extent in the calcareous formations of the State, but nothing peculiar was 
 observed in them. Those visited, were Martin's Cave, Middle Fork Ameri- 
 can River ; McKinney's, and Volcano, in Calaveras County. 
 
 MINERAL SPRINGS. 
 
 There are several mineral springs scattered through the country, consist- 
 ing mostly of Chalybeate and Sulphur ; they are widely dispersed but*a 
 few of them will be noticed. 
 
 Chalybeate Spring, upon ., ^ Destruction River. 
 
 " " " - North Feather do. 
 
 " " . " Yuba, English Bar. 
 
 Sulphur Spring, at Jackson, Calaveras County. 
 
 This last is the most important of all, and to be found in any quantity ; it 
 will probably become a place of resort for invalids in the future, as its waters 
 are powerfully medicinal. 
 
 Valleys of Sacramento and San Joaquin. ^-Before noticing the probable 
 capabilities of these valleys for Agriculture, so far as can be inferred from 
 an examination of the rocks on their eastern and western borders, we will 
 consider the probable formations that under-lie those valleys. 
 
 To Mr. Tyson we are much indebted in demonstrating these formations, 
 and his opinions are entitled to our confidence in this particular, as his ob- 
 servations -in other parts of the country have been verified by different scien- 
 tific travellers. 
 
 Of its agricultural prospects, he said, " unless ample supplies of water 
 can be elevated to the surface, it can never obtain much importance for 
 purposes of agriculture." 
 
 It was, therefore, important to ascertain whether the geological structure 
 beneath would warrant the expectation of bringing water above the surface 
 by means of Artesian wells, and I do not hesitate to say it does most strong- 
 ly. " Experience has demonstrated the almost certainty of obtaining water 
 by this means in all valleys resting on sedimentary formations, and having 
 a basin-shaped stratification, the beds of which are not too compact to pre- 
 vent the passage of water through them, or between." He further ob- 
 serves : " That these indications are fulfilled in these valleys, and that we 
 have sufficient evidence that the beds of conglomerate, sandstone and clay
 
 28 
 
 that dip under the eastern edge of the valleys, is the same which rise from 
 it on the west." 
 
 This correct and lucid description of the structure of these districts, can- 
 not but lead us to the conclusion, that water, in quantities sufficient for pur- 
 nes of agriculture, is obtainable from these .sources, and at comparatively 
 rates. But a few years will elapse before this method will be adopted on 
 an extensive scale. It needs but the initiative to bring this mode of irriga- 
 tion into general use, and it will soon be largely employed. 
 
 This is demonstrated in the sinking of wells in the city of San Francisco ; 
 notwithstanding the failure of the first experiment in that city, there are a 
 large number of these wells now in operation and others contracted for ; 
 and if proof of the possibility of the operation is requisite, these practical 
 illustrations we think are sufficient, beitfg situated as they are in a district 
 where the probabilities of success were much less flattering than any part 
 of the great valleys present. The adoption of this method of supply for 
 this needful agent in the arid portions of the valleys, cannot fail to increase 
 the resources of wealth which are the right arms of national prosperity ; 
 and it would seem then to become a question of economic interest with the 
 State to take the first step in some of the valley counties, or in a more in- 
 direct manner through these counties to demonstrate its practicability in 
 those extensive and now useless districts alluded to. The benefits 'that 
 would result to the community from its success must prove prodigious, and 
 its expense a mere trifle compared to the advantages. 
 
 Should this suggestion meet with your approval, the author would venture 
 to propose three points distant from each other on which the experiment 
 might be tried, with the above object in view, and which would sufficiently 
 illustrate the practicability of the system for all parts of the country. 
 
 The localities best suited for these operations, in the author's opinion, 
 would be 
 
 First : Near the line of Colusi and Yolo Counties, at a point a few miles 
 east of the foot-hills of the coast range. In Sac.ramento County, midway 
 between the American and Cosumnes rivers, at a point five miles west of the 
 valley foot-hills ; and in Tuolumne County, on the same range, eight or ten 
 miles northwest of Jackson's Ferry. 
 
 This last named point is one of considerable importance, as a recent sand 
 stone formation exists, overlaying the older rocks, directly below which 
 water would probably be found. 
 
 The localities named are situated in the more arid portions of the valley 
 districts, and are therefore selected. 
 
 MODIFICATIONS OF SOIL ON THE VALLEYS. 
 
 The capabilities of a soil for production in agriculture is dependant, in 
 most cases, in an equal or proportionate distribution of the minerals com- 
 prising it, and an excess of any one of its basic ingredients will render it 
 unfit for these purposes, to which it would otherwise be well adapted. 
 
 On page 15, allusion was made to this point when speaking of the prepon- 
 derance of the argelite formations and of the influence they must exert from
 
 29 
 
 the large amount of their debris heing commingled with the major portions 
 of the alluvial of the valleys. 
 
 Hence it follows that a large portion of the lower prairie of the great 
 valleys contain a notable and even disproportionate amount of this argilla- 
 ceous ingredient, the natural and corrective agent of which is the sand and 
 sandstone formations, so widely distributed in most parts of the country. 
 
 The application of this agent as a subsoil, or its mixture with the heavy 
 argillaceous earths, will have a tendency to make them much more manage- 
 able and prolific. It is well understood that a goodly amount of lime is a 
 most necessary ingredient in all soils in which wheat is to be raised, the 
 more especially if followed for several consecutive years. In the more 
 northern sections, this mineral does not hold so important a place as a distinct 
 deposit as we have seen it to be in the southern districts ; and although this 
 cereal may flourish well at this time at the north, we must not place too 
 implicit confidence in the capabilities of our soils, in this particular, for too 
 long a period, without applying artificially the necessary calcareous matter 
 that will by successive sowing become exhausted. 
 
 The southern district will not suffer in this particular on those lands that 
 will produce this grain, from the fact that much higher amount of calctireous 
 earth is commingled with the alluvial of the valleys, and the formation is 
 much more extensively developed in these sections. 
 
 In addition to this, the disintegrated sandstone of a large portion of the 
 lower part of the rivers that flow through these sections is calcareous, so 
 much so as to effervesce with dilute acids. This sand and sandstone will be 
 used for purposes of reclamation on the heavy argillaceous earths incident to 
 this district, as well as in the northern sections ; and its closer proximity to 
 the localities in which it will be needed, will render it more valuable. 
 
 This sandstone is of the same age as that in the vicinity of Benicia and 
 the shores of Carquinez 'Straits, and adjoining bays ; and if required, is well 
 adapted for building purposes in those sections ; and like the Benicia stone, 
 it possesses the property of becoming more compact on exposure to atmo- 
 spheric action. 
 
 The most convenient locality for obtaining this stone for any purpose that 
 may be required, is about ten miles above Jackson's Ferry, on the Tuolumne 
 road. At this place it joins the banks of the river, in bluffs full one hundred 
 feet in height, which are perpendicular. 
 
 Formation of the Valley of the Sacramento. Many and diversified 
 opinions have been entertained relative to the formation of tins section of 
 the State, and it may yet be considered a questionable point, in some par- 
 ticulars, as to the causes which were productive of this result. The 
 lake and river theory has its advocates, while others, and with more 
 consistency, adopt the doctrine of gradual elevation from subterranean 
 forces. In viewing the present portion of the valley and .the sedimentary 
 rocks that form its border, and the extensive area they occupy in the 
 State, it appears conclusive th?.t other agents than those of water must 
 have played an important part in giving to the section its present charac- 
 ter and appearance. 
 
 Were there no other portions of the country involved in this question 
 than the upper and lower prairies of the valleys proper, the doctrines of
 
 30 
 
 aquoous denudation might perhaps be sufficient to explain their present 
 features in some degree. 
 
 An insuperable objection is offered to the lake and river theory in the 
 formation of these valleys in the terraced form they present, from this fact : 
 they must suppose a sudden aud an abrupt elevation in the first place, 
 to Conn the necessary lake ; and in the second case, the contained waters 
 should be moving or running waters in ordet to accommodate the neces- 
 sary amount of alluvial, of which the valleys are composed. 
 
 Two conditions, as we see, that are inconsistent with each other, from 
 the nature of the circumstances. 
 
 "And how long," asks Mr. Dana, "would such lakes exist after an 
 elevation,? " 
 
 If the violence of the elevation did not open for them a passage, the 
 accumulation of water during a single flood would break a passage 
 through such a barrier as the soft sandstone at the mouths of the Sacra- 
 mento presents. 
 
 The inconsistency then of this supposition will be apparent, were there 
 no objections of a different nature, present. The barrier theory must 
 have acted in such a manner as to have inclined the strata of the sedi- 
 mentary rocks in this vicinity at a very considerable angle, had it oc- 
 curred, this being the result of forces from beneath ; and as we find that 
 these formations are but very slightly disturbed or changed in their char- 
 acters, we are not warranted in adopting this position, as an examination 
 of raised beaches within five hundred yards of this capital will illus 
 trate.* 
 
 The terraced form of the great valleys then are attributable to those 
 causes which have been so clearly demonstrated by Mr. Dana, as having 
 arisen from the process of gradual elevation by forces from beneath the 
 surtace, and which have raised the country some fifteen hundred feet 
 since the tertiary epoch. 
 
 A careful examination will convince us that these forces are still in 
 activity within the limits of this State, as recent examples have been 
 presented in the last few months. 
 
 With this brief sketch of the general characteristics of the Geology 
 of the State, and the short time allotted for the preparation of this, be- 
 ing but a few days, I hope will be sufficient excuse for its brevity. 
 Did the time permit, a more elaborate detail would have been made, 
 and which, at some future day, I hope I may be able 'to furnish, 
 when the explorations now commenced shall have been completed. 
 
 Hoping the report may meet your approval and anticipations. 
 I subscribe myself, yours, &c. 
 
 JOHN B. TRASIL 
 
 To J. R. SNYDER, 
 
 Chairman of Committee on the Geology of the State. 
 
 * Since the above was written, I learn that Mr. J. Sheldon lias in his possession fossil var- 
 tebrata aud crustacea from this formation, which wiLl be furnished at au early day.
 
 QE 
 
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