Flames Threaten Historic Gold Rush Town in California

A wildfire is causing chaos in a small town in California. This town has a rich history. It was settled by Chinese miners during the Gold Rush. The fire started on Tuesday and grew quickly. By Wednesday, it had spread to 10 square miles. The town of Chinese Camp was evacuated. Nearby highways were also closed. The fire is part of a larger group of fires called the TCU September Lightning Complex. These fires have burned over 19 square miles. They are in Calaveras and Tuolumne counties. Firefighters are working hard to control them. But so far, there is no containment. At least five homes were on fire in the town. Some people tried to save their homes. They moved branches and shoveled sand. They did this until firefighters arrived. An RV was damaged by the fire. Fire officials asked for more help. They need fire engines, dozers, and aircraft. The fire was caused by lightning. It is one of many fires that started on Tuesday in California. Chinese Camp Town has an interesting past. It was settled by Chinese miners. They were driven out of a nearby camp. The town was originally called Camp Washington. But its name was changed to reflect the many Chinese settlers. Thousands of Chinese came to California during the Gold Rush. They faced many challenges. One was the Foreign Miners Tax. It was designed to drive them away from mining.