Gold Mining History in Idaho Springs
Colorado’s gold rush history is significant to the development of Idaho Springs and surrounding mining districts. There is much to learn and enjoy as you visit historical gold mining sites and facilities in the expansive Colorado mining belt. You also have the opportunity to try the delicious Colorado style pizza at Beau Jo’s as part of the ultimate Colorado mining adventure.
Discovery of Gold in Idaho Springs
Gold in Idaho Springs was discovered in 1859 by George Andrew Jackson. Jackson and his companion were on a hunting mission when he made the discovery. However, one would ask why the companion did not receive credit for discovering Colorado gold. Jackson and his companion went up to the frozen course of Vasquez Creek, which later became Clear Creek. His companion did not wish to hunt and explore further, but Jackson was willing.
He set out alone the following day as his companion went back. Jackson explored what later became a mining belt, but his exploration did not bear fruits until he reached the intersection of Chicago Creek and Clear Creek. The story of Idaho Spring gold began at this intersection.
Jackson used his hunting knife to dig and his drinking cup to pan. His efforts were rewarded with gold worth nine dollars. He marked the prospective goldmine and went back home. Jackson returned to his new mine with enough men to commence commercial mining. They registered a formal organization in June 1859, giving rise to the Colorado Gold Rush.
Mining Districts in Idaho Springs
Idaho Springs mining district is about 30 miles west of Denver in southern Gilpin and northern Clear Creek Counties. Other mining districts considered part of Idaho Spring include the Chicago Creek district, which borders it to the southwest, the Central City district to the north, the Lawson-Dumont-Fall River, and the Freeland-Lamartine districts to the west.
The mining districts led to the emergence of a vibrant mining town as miners and their families moved to the area during the Colorado Gold Rush. At the peak of the Gold Rush period, the population of the new mining town had reached over 10,000. Although the current population has reduced significantly, the history of the gold rush remains integral to Idaho Springs.
Argo Gold Mine and Mill
Colorado Gold Rush History cannot be complete without the mention of Argo Gold Mine and Mill. While Clear Creek and Gilpin County mining districts were considered the richest square mile on earth, most gold ores were found along streams and rivers. Workers were required to drain the mines to extract the minerals. The Argo Tunnel was constructed to drain the mines. Construction of the 4.2-mile tunnel began in 1893 and took ten years to complete.
The extensive gold mining belt also required a central milling point to reduce processing costs. Stakeholders in the mining industry set up the Argo Mill to provide milling services. Gold ore was transported from all mines to the Argo Mill for processing. In addition to draining the mines, the tunnel provided a direct shipping route to the state-of-the-art milling facility.
However, the tunnel flooded on January 19th, 1943, stopping operations at the mill. WWII and the impact of the catastrophic flood permanently ceased operations. The mill remained deserted until 1976, when preservationists purchased it and converted it to a tourist site. You can visit the Argo Mill to view mining and milling artifacts and documents such as receipts, original payroll, and antique photographs.
Phoenix Gold Mine – Idaho Springs
The Phoenix Gold Mine is situated in Idaho Springs, Colorado and was established in 1859. It was among the first lode mining claims in the region and operated for over a century, producing gold, silver, copper, and lead. Closed in 1962, the mine has been open to the public for tours since 1968. Located in the scenic Rocky Mountains, it offers a great opportunity to explore Colorado’s mining history through guided tours of the old mine tunnels. Visitors can glimpse the miners’ lives and even spot some of the gold extracted from the Phoenix Gold Mine.
Mining for Great Taste: Discover Delicious Pizza at Beau Jo’s
Submerge yourself in the history of the Gold Rush as you explore the various historical mining locations and tour the tunnels. After a long day of adventuring, a Beau Jo’s Pizza is the perfect compliment for an awesome day. Mine for gold and then mine for great taste at Beau Jo’s. Contact us today with any questions, to browse the menu, or to place an order.
Featured Image: Kimberly Boyles/Shutterstock