Citrus: California's second gold rush
RIVERSIDE, Calif — Gold brought early settlers to California, but it was citrus that made many failed miners rich. It's something everyone can lear...
RIVERSIDE, Calif — Gold brought early settlers to California, but it was citrus that made many failed miners rich. It's something everyone can learn about at the California Citrus State Historic Park in Riverside. 'It practically made California the second gold rush,' said Mary Mar Mendoza, park interpreter. The California citrus story is a long one that starts on the Silk Road in Asia. 'Back then, it was more of a spice, a way to preserve rotting food,' Mendoza said. The sour fruit eventually made its way on Spanish ships to prevent scurvy and ultimately landed in South America where missionaries forced indigenous people to grow them.