Claude Chana Gold Panner Monument

A 45-ton concrete statue of a Gold Rush era miner stands at the entrance to Old Town Auburn, a small collection of shops, restaurants, and antique stores. The statue is a representation of Claude Chana (1811-1882), the prospector who discovered gold here in the foothills east of Sacramento on May 16, 1848.

A 45-ton concrete statue of a Gold Rush era miner stands at the entrance to Old Town Auburn, a small collection of shops, restaurants, and antique stores. The statue is a representation of Claude Chana (1811-1882), the prospector who discovered gold here in the foothills east of Sacramento on May 16, 1848.

Auburn dentist Ken Fox, creator of the Great Statues of Auburn, sculpted the miner at the request of the town. It’s made of a rebar and wire mesh framework covered in concrete. Fox sculpted the miner between appointments at his still operating dental practice on the other side of town. You can see more of his statues, constructed in the early 1970s, in other parts of Auburn.

  • Old Town
  • Historic Site

The Claude Chana statue which is one of first things to be seen upon entering Old Town Auburn from Interstate 80. Visit the Placer County Visitors Bureau to pick up a walking map of Old Town Auburn.

ALSO CHECK OUT:

  • American Canyon Trail

    American Canyon Trail

    Greenwood, CA

    This steep trail has everything needed for a great day of exploration: rugged mountain canyons, a beautiful stream with waterfalls, a wide variety of plant and animal life, gold rush era history, and panoramic views of the Middle Fork American River.

    Greenwood Road @ Pilgrim Court, Greenwood, CA 95635
  • Downtown Walking Tour & Old Town Auburn Walking Tours

    Downtown Walking Tour & Old Town Auburn Walking Tours

    Auburn, CA

    Try one of our 15 restaurants, or 40 quaint shops and services. Don’t miss the Old Town Gallery featuring the works of 60 local artists, all in one old historical building. Four museums can be found within a few blocks, where history buffs will find lots of rich Gold Country history.

    1103 High Street, Auburn, CA 95603
  • Donner Summit

    Donner Summit

    Donner Summit, CA

    Donner Summit boasts five alpine ski resorts, miles of cross country skiing, and numerous snow play areas.

    19455 Bunny Hill Drive, Soda Springs, CA 95728