Site of grist mill build by Jared Dixon (Joaquin) Sheldon 1846-47 on Omochumnes Rancho, granted to him by Mexican Government in 1843. Sheldon born Vermont January 8, 1813, came to California 1832. Sheldon shot July 11, 1851, by miners quarrel over dam he built which flooded miner's claims.
Additional Information
From The Sacramento BeeŠ, January 19, 1998 (by Carlos Alcala): "In 1847, Daylor and Sheldon built a grain mill on the Cosumnes River where they milled wheat for Sutter. The mill was reportedly abandoned after the discovery of gold, but its timbers sometimes can be seen amid the river's shifting gravel and cobble." "In 1851, Sheldon met his own end. In order to irrigate some crops he planned to sell to miners, Sheldon had purchased a piece of the river above Sloughhouse and build a dam. When the dam was finished, river waters began to back up. Predictable, miners whose claims were flooded were not pleased. Failing to convince Sheldon to dismantle the dam, they tried to take it apart themselves. When and his workers faced off against 150 miners, shots were fired. Sheldon and two others were killed."
Footnote: "Sutter" mentioned in the story is referring to John Sutter and "Daylor" is referring to William Daylor who was one of John Sutter's cooks and later a friend & partner of Jared Sheldon. From the Article "Sloughhouse wasn't always quiet". Quotes used with permission from The Sacramento Bee, 1/98.
The bronze plaque was vandalized and stolen a few years ago. The plaque was replaced by Liberty Parlor No. 213, Native Daughters of the Golden West, September 26, 1997. Though the Grist Mill is no longer standing and no visible signs can be seen, the creek still flows nearby and the meadow is filled with wild flowers.