A California Historic Landmark is a site designated by the state of California for its historical significance. These landmarks can include buildings, structures, or locations that represent important events, people, or cultural heritage in California's history. The designation helps preserve these sites for future generations and promotes public awareness of the state's rich past. The California Historic Landmark program was established in 1931 and is managed by the California Office of Historic Preservation. Each landmark is assigned a unique number and is marked with a plaque that provides information about its historical importance. Examples of landmarks include the Mission San Juan Capistrano and the Gold Rush-era towns.