Pioneers and freight wagons following post roads to the Southern Mines crossed the San Joaquin River nearby at Durham's Ferry, and as the crossroads point for riverboat and overland traffic, the town played an important part in development of the west side of San Joaquin Valley grain farming and cattle raising.

In 1888, it was moved 3 miles (4.8 km) southwest to Vernalis, along the Southern Pacific rail line.

Pioneers and freight wagons crossed the river at nearby Durham's Ferry, following post roads to the southern mines.

As a terminal for river boats it played an important part in development of west side grain farming and cattle raising.

777 Plaque placed by the California State Park Commission in cooperation with the San Joaquin County Historical Society, November 3, 1962.