Name derived from two sawmills erected here to supply mining timbers in the early 1850s. Population at one time 1000. Rich in pocket gold in heyday. Mining camp of Mexican woman, Doña Elisa Martínez, at north end of the flat, reported to have been hideout of famous bandit Joaquin Murieta. Site of story "Battle of Sawmill Flat".

Registered Landmark No. 424

Tablet placed by California Centennials Commission
Bas provided by Odd Fellows and Rebekahs of Tuolumne County
Dedicated October 2, 1949