This is the site of the beginning of the United States' conquest of California. On June 10, 1846, American settlers led by Ezekial Merritt overpowered Mexican soldiers under Lieutenant Francisco Arce and took their horses from the corral of the Murphy Ranch on the north bank of the Cosumnes River. The 'Bear Flag' action in Sonoma followed on June 14, 1846.

Citation from California Office of Historic Preservation