Two miles south of this spot was the site of "Empire City" located on the

south bank of the river.  Founded in 1850 by John G. Marvin.  The town was

the head of navigation on the Tuolumne River.  It was a military supply depot

for Forts Miller and Tahone.  Elected the second Stanislaus County Seat on

October 21, 1854.  Three stores, one three story hotel, two boarding houses,

a blacksmith shop, church and a school house were present.  Vessels called

"Petite Steamers" like the Tulare, Enterprise, Empire City, and the Harlett

brought passesngers and supplies.  This was a major shipping point for the

Noble Grand Humbug                   E Clampus Vitus