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Free Traveling Guides » States » California » Gold Country
North Star Mining Museum
At the corner of Mill St. and McCourtney Road in historic Grass Valley, California lies the North Star Mining Museum, featuring a restored and full preserved collection of important mining memorabilia and paraphernalia. A tourist’s delight, particularly those with a mind and passion for technological artifacts, the Museum is a living tribute to the days of the California gold rush.
Among the North Star Mining Museums most historically significant displays is the world’s largest Pelton Wheel. The Pelton Wheel is thirty feet in diameter and was used to operate a 1000 horsepower compressor to generate enough power for the mining operations at the time of the mine’s heyday. The wheel ran at 65 revolutions per minute, with its buckets traveling at nearly 75 miles per hour. The Pelton Wheel could be considered the link between old-style waterwheels and modern day steam engines. Its development changed the way mining was done. Also on the grounds is the world’s largest Cornish Pump. The Cornish Pump is the largest steam driven pumping engine ever built in the United States. Twenty-man skips are on display, which were used to transport ore to the surface. The mine itself is the deepest in Grass Valley with an astounding depth of 4,000 feet. A 20-stamp mill and a secluded picnic area near Wolf Creek round out the attractions that drive tourists to the museum year after year. The museum is open daily from May till October. Hours vary, so call ahead before setting off for a visit.
- Telephone: (530) 273-4255
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