Small towns… what would we do without them! Those of us living in the city need an occasional escape to quieter spots, far from the bustle, known for their nature, their rich history, or maybe just for a funny name that makes us chuckle. Well, this is one of those places. And no, it’s not the already-famous Zzyzx.
According to a survey by Mental Floss, this town near Sacramento, located in the heart of the state, officially holds the title for the funniest name you’ll find anywhere in California… And that says a lot, considering how many towns in the state have quirky names.
A living reminder of the Gold Rush
Rough and Ready popped up in 1849 right in the middle of the Gold Rush era. Miners from Wisconsin set up camp along Deer Creek after striking some rich gold, and pretty quickly the place turned into a lively little hub of tents, cabins, and prospectors chasing their fortune.
At its peak in the early 1850s, the town had thousands of miners buzzing around and was an important stop in the regional gold scene. Fires and the decline of easy gold slowed things down later on, but a small community stuck around. Today, it’s a quiet rural spot with a few historic buildings that hint at its Gold Rush past.
How did the town get its quirky name?
Rough and Ready owes is crown as the funniest town name, to none other than General Zachary Taylor, the 12th U.S. president. His troops and reputation earned him the nickname “Old Rough and Ready,” and the miners who founded the town thought it was perfect for their settlement. They even named their mining company after him.
Exploring Rough and Ready
Though the town may be small, there’s plenty to see and do here. The official Nevada County website recommends taking a stroll through town to spot quirky street names like “To Hell and Back Ln,” “Ironclad” or “Awesome HI”.
If you’re around in June, don’t miss Secession Days, the town’s playful celebration of its brief independence in 1850. The day includes a pancake breakfast, local crafts, the blacksmith firing up the forge, and the hilarious musical melodrama The Saga of Rough and Ready. Gold panning, historic walks, and seasonal scenery make any visit a fun step back into California’s Gold Rush past.