The California Autoharp Gathering (CAG) was founded in 2003 at the Mendota Unified School District. Students at the school district were had the opportunity to take classes in autoharp, guitar, pep band, mariachi, and folkloric dancing. The CAG was established to give these students a chance to go to a fine arts camp; where workshops, concerts, and training would be made available to them. In addition, participants from around the United States were invited to join the CAG to celebrate and enjoy a three-day festival with the autoharp being the primary instrument of study.

For CAG 2003 and CAG 2004, the festival was held at Mendota High School, a scenic and comfortable establishment for all participants. Mendota, California is located in the middle of Central California, equal-distant from Los Angeles and the Bay Area. Most participants camped in tents or RVs at the high school. Attendance did surprisingly well during these two years.

However, it was noted that Mendota High School and the community had several limitations under the original vision of the event. There was a lack of indoor housing for staff and participants. There was a lack of a "camp" atmosphere for the children of Mendota Unified. Therefore, a subcommittee was formed to find a more suitable location to house the CAG.

During the summer of 2004, a suggestion was made to visit the St. Nicholas Ranch and Retreat Center, located in the Sierra Nevada Mountains, about 45 minutes east of Fresno off Highway 180. An initial visit to the Ranch revealed a beautiful atmosphere; scenic and gracious in the surroundings. The Ranch has plenty of indoor lodging; both with motel-style private rooms and dorm-style rooms. Camping space was available directly at the dorm area, giving campers access to indoor restroom facilities. A first-class dining room with catering home-cooked meals was available. Finally, the Ranch was perfect for our fine arts students - there were plenty of "camp" style activities as well as room for fine arts workshops.

Arrangements were made with the Ranch and the California Autoharp Gathering moved to its new location for CAG 2005. That gathering gave a tribute to the Carter Family, with special guest Dale Jett (son of Janette Carter) making the trip from Hiltons, Virginia, to showcase the new CAG at the St. Nicholas Ranch. Attendance also increased from the previous two gatherings. It was a very successful event in the new location.