California Historical Landmarks in El Dorado County
California Historical Landmark 141
Hangman's Tree
305 Main Street
Placerville
The Hangman's Tree Bar closed in 2008 when the city of
Placerville declared the building unsafe.
24 February 2007
The Hangman's Tree Ice Cream Saloon opened in 2017.
23 October 2022
23 October 2022
Bas-relief detail from the commemorative marker.
24 February 2007
24 February 2007
(Click Photos to Zoom)
This city in the days of '49' was called
"HANGTOWN"
This was the site of Elstner's Hay Yard, on which stood the
'HANGMANS TREE'
where vigilantes executed many men for various crimes. The stump of the tree is under this building.
Dedicated May 31 1934 by Marguerite Parlor No 12
N. D. G. W.
And Placerville Parlor No 9
N. S. G. W.
Hangman’s Tree Bar closed in 2008, when the city of Placerville declared the building unsafe and recommended demolition. In 2012, Sue and Tim Taylor purchased the building and the adjacent Herrick Building and began restoring both. In 2017, the Taylors opened the Hangman’s Tree Ice Cream Saloon. Ms. Taylor says the stump of the famous oak is still beneath the floor in the middle of the shop.
George, the hanged mannequin, was stolen the night before the Hangman’s Tree Bar bar closed, but he mysteriously returned three years later.
Source: Comstock's Magazine, 20 September 2019
On 13 April 2021, the Placerville City Council voted unanimously to remove the noose from the Placerville city seal.