Sacramento, founded in 1848 as an outgrowth of Sutter Fort, has been the capital of the state of California since 1855. Its location made it a major transportation center during from the Gold Rush as it was the terminus for the Pony Express, the first transcontinental railroad, as well as riverboats. The oldest part of the town besides Sutter's Fort is Old Sacramento, which consists of cobbled streets and some historic buildings from the 1860s. The district is now a substantial tourist attraction, with rides on steam-hauled historic trains and paddle steamers.
[CLICK on any picture to see a larger image and details, to add to selection, to order, and to download wallpaper.]