Goldfield NV - Exploring the Florence Mine

Joanne

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Aug 2, 2015
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I know that Goldfield was a famous boom town in the early 1900s, but I never realized just how unique the area was. For example, the Florence Mine produced some ore that assayed out at 2,800 ounces per ton! And because it was an epithermal disposition, there are many interesting sulfides including some that are unique to Goldfield. I recently had the opportunity to visit Jon Aurich and tour the mine site. We also had the opportunity to explore the five levels where the ladders are still intact. The ladders have given way down to the 6th level, so next trip we will be taking ropes down with us.

If you go through Goldfield, they offer tours of the mine site. Jon is very knowledgeable about Goldfield mining history and is a geologist. You will love talking with him!

If you can't make it out to Goldfield, here's a look around above and below ground.

 

tamrock

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Jan 16, 2013
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Been awhile since I've gone out that way. Use to sell to a mine in Beatty. I hit a $1200 Jackpot in little casino there in that town. Cool old stuff in and around Goldfield.
 

russau

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May 29, 2005
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St. Louis, missouri
Joanne thanks for posting this video on this mine ! I would never be able to visit or tour this or ANY mine due to my (now) physical ability's ! Thanks again !
 

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Joanne

Joanne

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Aug 2, 2015
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Las Vegas, NV
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Neat old mine!

It really is neat. Especially since the so much of the site is still intact. Unfortunately the majority of the underground workings are lost to collapse or flooding. Jon has a true love of history and is actively restoring various mine buildings and buildings in town as well.

Joanne
 

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Joanne

Joanne

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Aug 2, 2015
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I refer to Goldfield as a living ghost town. Most people just drive thru on there way somewhere else, but just a quick drive off the main road will show you all kinds of history. Some of the buildings are receiving restoration work, but the county is very poor and there aren't many funds for preservation. The recorder's office in town has mining claim books dating back to the late 1800s and they are right there to see.

Glad you got to take $1,200 home as a "souvenir" of Goldfield!

Joanne
 

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Joanne

Joanne

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Aug 2, 2015
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Joanne thanks for posting this video on this mine ! I would never be able to visit or tour this or ANY mine due to my (now) physical ability's ! Thanks again !

russau, you just made my day! One of the main reasons I started making videos is to be able to share these adventures with those who simply don't have that opportunity. I love these old mines and am lucky enough to live right in the middle of thousands of them that I can share. I felt a bit awkward posting videos on this forum, but thought that many of us are interested in mining.

Thanks so much for the feedback! Be well!

Joanne
 

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