In 1842, Francisco Lopez made the first documented discovery of gold in California, when it was still part of Mexico. The event is memorialized in an 1842 mining claim issued by Governor Alvarado. The discovery was made in Placerita Canyon. The Oak of the Golden Dream remains an attraction for tourists. Beginning in the mid-20th century, this area was used as Hollywood's original back lot when the area was developed by movie studios. Santa Clarita remains a popular filming location (see Movie ranches section below).