History

History of Grass Valley

Overview

Grass Valley’s story is rooted in the California Gold Rush, when miners, merchants, and families from around the world built a thriving community in the Sierra Nevada foothills. The city quickly grew into a cultural and economic hub, blending rugged frontier spirit with Victorian-era charm. Today, Grass Valley’s historic homes, brick storefronts, and preserved landmarks offer a glimpse into that vibrant past. The Heritage Homes Walking Tour celebrates this legacy, guiding visitors through neighborhoods where generations lived, worked, and shaped the character of Nevada County. From Gold Rush pioneers to 20th-century innovators, the city’s history lives on in the architecture and stories that still line its streets.

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Town History

Grass Valley 1851

It is said that Grass Valley was named by settlers whose cattle had wandered from their campsite on Greenhorn Creek to a “grassy valley” nearby where the grazing was better. The “grassy valley” proved to be a convenient location for constructing buildings and Wolf Creek.

For more information
about Grass Valley's
History Contact:
Nevada County
Historical Society
Searls Historical Library
161 Nevada City Hwy.
Nevada City, CA 95959
View map
(530) 265-5910
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Historic District & Design Guidelines

Historic Homes

The City of Grass Valley encourages the protection, preservation, and enhancement of its heritage and architecturally significant resources.

In order to effectively assess the relative value of buildings and structures in the historic 1872 Townsite, a priority rating system with four categories was created:

Priority 1 - rating can be applied to properties that retain superb integrity, are one-of-kind or unique examples

Commands