The Gold Rush history hiding under Folsom Lake

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Valentine's week always brings out the couples and the restaurant reservations, but there's more happening than just romantic dinners.

EDH picked up a wine bar with a creative membership model, Folsom has some overlooked history literally underwater, and a new vintage shop is getting repeat visits for good reason. The weekend looks wide open.

Your wine club membership comes with voting rights at The Vine in El Dorado Hills. Owners Jaime and Tyler Wiese let members decide which bottles stay, creating a genuine community hub.

Pair your pick with tri-tip sliders, truffle fries, or whatever's rotating through the small plates menu. Live music fills weekends, and the service is as warm as the atmosphere. It's a wine bar that actually feels like yours.

Corie and Cristina opened Alchemy in spring 2024, and locals are already hooked. The duo scours flea markets and estate sales for vintage furniture, then pairs those finds with pieces from local artisans.

Walk in and you'll see mid-century chairs next to handmade candles, rustic wood beside modern artwork. Customers rave about the welcoming vibe and warn that leaving empty-handed is nearly impossible. The candles alone are worth the trip.

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The Gist: That sandbar at Folsom Lake where you paddleboard? It's Black Miners Bar, one of the earliest and largest Gold Rush settlements built by Black miners starting in 1849. Many worked the American River to buy their own freedom, earning up to two ounces of gold daily. The nearby town of Negro Hill, once home to 1,200 residents, now sits underwater thanks to the 1954 Folsom Dam. In 2022, the site was officially renamed Black Miners Bar.

Why It Matters: Next time you're at the lake, you'll know you're standing on ground where people literally mined for their freedom.

The Gist: Folsom Parks & Recreation wants your input on Neighborhood Park No. 1, coming to the Folsom Plan Area at 3294 Empire Ranch Road. This is your chance to weigh in on everything from playground features to green space layout before shovels hit the ground.

Why It Matters: Early community involvement means the park will actually reflect what local families and neighbors want to see and use.

What's Next: Attend the free public workshop on Monday, Feb. 23 at 5:30 p.m. at Alder Creek Elementary (4545 Old Ranch Way). Can't make it? Email [email protected].

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