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FOLSOM, Calif. — A city in California has reported that low lake levels have revealed a settlement known as Mormon Island that hasn't been seen since 1955.
KCRA in Sacramento reported that the island town, which is usually under Folsom Lake, grew out of a larger Mormon settlement on the American River during the Gold Rush.
"Mormon Island thrived during mining years with as many as 2,500 people, complete with four hotels, a school and seven saloons, according to some historical accounts," KCRA reported.
Sightseers and amateur archeologists are now exploring the island, and they reported seeing stone foundations, a capped well, rusty nails and other debris.
The area was intentionally flooded in 1955 when Folsom Dam was built to create Folsom Lake. Most of the town is still under the lake.
