Striking Gold with California History

Oakwood School 4th grade students recently returned from an unforgettable 3-day, 2-night field trip filled with history, adventure, and hands-on fun!

The trip began at Sutter's Fort in Sacramento, where students explored the historic site and tackled a scavenger hunt. From there, it was off to camp in Coloma for activities like panning for gold, snacking on homemade biscuits with butter and jam, and enjoying stories from Ms. Jesse, the Pioneer Woman, a real mountain man, and music with Dan the Music Man.

Day two brought tinsmithing, a visit from Native American storyteller Kimberlee Petree-Shining Star, and a trip to Marshall Gold Discovery State Historic Park, where students stood on the very spot where gold was first discovered in 1848.

The final day included tours of the California State Capitol, a visit to the Vietnam Veterans Memorial, and time at the California Railroad Museum.

It was a fantastic trip filled with learning, laughter, and memories students will treasure for years to come!