Claude Chana's discovery of gold in Auburn Ravine Creek in 1848 lead to the creation of a gold mining camp which was named Auburn in 1849.  Miners headed to the mining fields from Sacramento could take wagons as far as Auburn. From there the road narrowed to trails heading to the gold fields, north and south, which could only be accessed with horses and pack mules.

By the 1860's Auburn had become a real town. It was first incorporated in the 1860's for a short time and permanently in 1888.

Auburn nearly became two towns as a result of the development of a newer commercial center east of the Old Town. The newer center called itself East Auburn and even tried to succeed from the rest of Auburn until the Post Office refused to recognize East Auburn. Two distinct town centers are clearly recognizable even today in Auburn.

Auburn is the county seat of Placer County. The current population is around 12,000. Auburn is located in the Sierra Foothills below the snow line and above the Sacramento Valley fog. Auburn has hills, ravines, views and wooded settings. 

Highway 80 divides Auburn, with most of the new commercial growth and newer homes to the north from the older neighborhoods and homes around the center of town to the south and newer homes in the southwest part of town. 

Auburn retains it's small town ambience while offering most of the modern conveniences of much larger cites. Old Town is charming with small shops and restaurants. The "East Auburn" commercial area has charm of a different sort.

The short drive from major employment centers in Roseville and Rocklin allows many to live in this picturesque community and work near to home.

Recreational opportunities abound in this area. You can be skiing in some of the finest downhill or cross country areas in the world about one hour away. Lake Tahoe is just over a one hour drive. You can go white water rafting just outside of town. We got mountains! You got a bike? Hiking and equestrian trails abound in this area. You can camp, fish and go boating nearby. In town there are six parks, two community swimming pools, two rec centers, Boys and Girls Club, roller rink, movies, theater, art galleries and more.

Auburn is the town you have seen in a movie or a Norman Rockwell painting.