"The first settlement reached in California by emigrant trains using the emigrant (Donner) trail. It was an original part of the 1844 Don Pablo Gutierrez Land Grant. It was sold at auction to William Johnson in 1845. In 1849 part of the ranch was set aside as a government reserve--CAMP FAR WEST. In 1866 the town of Wheatland was also laid out on a portion of the grant."

 

OVERLAND EMIGRANT TRAIL

"Approximately 1 1/14 miles east of this site is the historic Johnson's Crossing. This was the first settlement reached west of the Sierra and the last stop on the overland emigrant trail. Used as a camping spot for the pioneers, departure spot for the miners and a sojourning place for trappers herdsmen and adventurers. The rescue party for the Donner Party was organinized and departed from this crossing February 5, 1847."