Mariposa, California
Mariposa | |
|---|---|
| Coordinates: 37°29′06″N 119°57′59″W / 37.48500°N 119.96639°W | |
| Country | United States |
| State | California |
| County | Mariposa |
| Area | |
• Total | 4.040 sq mi (10.46 km2) |
| • Land | 4.037 sq mi (10.46 km2) |
| • Water | 0.003 sq mi (0.008 km2) 0.07% |
| Elevation | 2,015 ft (614 m) |
| Population (2020) | |
• Total | 1,526 |
| • Density | 378.0/sq mi (145.9/km2) |
| Time zone | UTC-8 (Pacific Time Zone) |
| • Summer (DST) | UTC-7 (PDT) |
| ZIP code | 95338 |
| Area code | 209 |
| FIPS code | 06-45932 |
| GNIS feature ID | 2408181 |
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Mariposa (/ˌmærɪˈpoʊzə, -sə/ ⓘ; Spanish for "Butterfly") is an unincorporated community and census-designated place (CDP) in and the county seat of Mariposa County, California, United States. The population was 1,526 at the 2020 census. Named for the monarch butterflies that overwinter there, the community's history is deeply intertwined with the California Gold Rush of the 19th century.
During the California Gold Rush, prospectors flocked to Mariposa for its rich mineral resources in streams and underground veins. Among them was John C. Frémont, Mariposa's most prominent resident, who leveraged his extensive mineral claims to achieve national prominence. He became the first U.S. senator from California and the inaugural Republican presidential candidate, significantly impacting both Mariposa and American politics during the 19th century's period of expansion.
Today, Mariposa preserves its rich heritage through numerous museums and landmarks that highlight its mining history. The county's proximity to Yosemite National Park also significantly contributes to its economy, with tourism playing a central role in supporting local businesses.