Auburn became the county seat of Placer County in 1851. This is its third courthouse and the second one on this site.

This one was complete in 1898, and currently houses the county museum as well as court.

Some $3 million was raised for a massive restoration, which lasted from 1986-1990.

The Museum Gallery is where a jail once was, and features an overview of Placer County History such as a Native American art exhibit, a gold collection inside the vault, and an original restored Sheriff’s office, complete with 1800s furniture.

It is the Old Auburn Historic District, which is on the National Register of Historic Places. A plaque proclaiming the property as a Historical Landmark reads “Site of first public hanging area and graveyard.”