First called Savage Diggins after man who discovered gold here, 1848. Renamed Big Oak Flat about 1850 after giant oak tree that stood in center of town, near this spot. Oak was about 13 feet in diameter and was undermined in 1869 and burned in 1890. Pieces remain. Rich placer and lode mines reported to have yielded $28,000,000 during heyday. Stone buildings erected 1852, still standing, 1949.

Historical Landmark No. 406

Tablet placed by California Centennials Commission
Aech provided by Boys Service Club Sonora Union Highway
Dedicated April 3, 1949