Local government began under an oak tree on this site in November, 1850 when votes were collected in a cigar box and James Walsh was the elected Justice of Peace. A cabin was built here in 1851 and it was purchased in 1853 by international celebrity and performer Lola Montez. She resided here until 1855 when she returned to San Francisco. The present structure is a replica of Lola's original house (which had been extensively remodeled and finally was condemned in 1975). The structure houses the Nevada County Chamber of Commerce, a small museum and many artifacts from Lola's residency.