HISTORY, EMPIRE MINE, MUSEUMS
Museums
Empire Mine State Historic Park
G R A S S V A L L E Y
HISTORY, EMPIRE MINE, MUSEUMS
GRASS VALLEY
H I S T O R Y S I T E S
CALIFORNIA’ S GOLD MINERS typically came from the east and midwest, but upon hearing that gold had been discovered, a group from Oregon made their way to the area that would become Grass Valley and the rush was on.
Mining for free gold in creeks and gravel was the norm until 1850 when gold was discovered in quartz. Within a matter of months, the town grew from 20 cabins to 150 buildings.
By 1855, the population rose to 3,500. That year a devastating fire destroyed virtually all of the business district. Another setback came when easily accessible gold became difficult to find. However in the 1860s, techniques had improved and extremely profitable hardrock or underground mines were established.
The mines helped Grass Valley continue to prosper during the Great Depression, but mining came to an end in the 1950s. Closure of the mines during World War II, the low fixed price of gold and labor disputes were all contributing factors.
Museums
North Star Mining Museum
NORTH STAR MINING MUSEUM: McCourtney & Allison Ranch Roads. One of the finest collections of hardrock mining equipment and artifacts in United States, including a giant Pelton Wheel and outdoor exhibits. Open May 1 – October 31, Tuesday – Saturday, 10:00 am – 4:00 pm & Sunday, 12:00 pm – 4:00 pm.( 530) 273-4255; nevadacountyhistory. org
GRASS VALLEY MUSEUM: 410 S. Church St. Part of St. Joseph’ s Cultural Center. See how life was lived from Gold Rush days to 1930. Turn-of-the-century doctor’ s office, Victorian bedroom, classroom. Open April 15 – December 15, Wednesday – Saturday, 12:30 pm – 3:30 pm.( 530) 273-5509; saintjosephsculturalcenter. org
SANDY REMOLIF
History of Mine Page 125 must Do!
Empire Mine State Historic Park
Located five minutes from downtown Grass Valley just off Hwy. 174( take East Empire Street), it was the oldest and one of the richest hardrock gold mines in California. Now it is one of the area’ s most popular attractions. Visitors to the park will find restored buildings, exhibits, an illuminated mine shaft and Bourne Cottage with its lovely gardens. Guided tours are available throughout the year. See website for schedules. Open daily 10:00 am – 5:00 pm. Closed Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Year’ s Day.( 530) 273-8522; empiremine. org
E m p i r E m i n E E v E n t s
��
|
|
Living History: Weekends through September |
Holiday Open House: November 24 – 25 |
RICHARD BANNISTER |
Miners Picnic |
121st Miners Picnic: August 26 11:00 am – 4:00 pm |
Mother’ s Day Event: May 13, 2018 11:00 am – 4:00 pm |
|
|
|
NEVADACOUNTYGOLD. com 25 |