Landmark #778 | Trinity County | Visited: May 10, 2012 | Plaque? YES! 🙂 |
What is it? | A plaque and giant water monitor by the side of the road! |
What makes it historical? | THE GUIDE SAYS: This mine, originally known as the Oregon Mountain Group of Claims, first operated about 1862. In 1892 the mine was purchased by the La Grange Hydraulic Gold Mining Company, which brought water from Stuart’s Fork through 29 miles of ditch, tunnels, and flume to deliver it to the mine pit under a 650-foot head. Over 100,000,000 yards of gravel were processed to produce $3,500,000 in gold. Large-scale operations ceased in 1918.
OTHER TIDBITS: This was the largest hydraulic mine in California between 1893 and 1915! It was owned by Baron Ernest de La Grange, who ran it until World War I drove up the costs of labor, powder, and steel, shutting down his operation! The giant monitor stationed by the plaque is an example of the kinds of hoses used to pump water into the hills and bring out the gold-bearing sediment! |
How can I Help the Helpers? | HERE’S HOW:
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Where is this place? | LISTED DIRECTIONS: State Hwy 299 (P.M. 478) 4 mi W of Weaverville, CA ANNOTATIONS: From Los Angeles: ~593mi (955km) — 9.9hrs |
When should I go? | Whenever the mood strikes you! |