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California Mining And Mineral MuseumThe California Mining and Mineral Museum is a museum located in the Mariposa County, California fairgrounds. The big news of 1848 was the discovery of gold in California. This event created international interest and soon a mass immigration of fortune seekers and pioneers trekked their way pan the streams for gold in the Sierra foothills. More than a century later, gold and legends of Old West mining continue to fascinate historians. Although this is one of the newest state parks, this museum houses a collection that was started in 1865 in San Francisco. It is the official California State Mineral Collection, with over 13,000 minerals, rocks, gems, historic artifacts and fossils. Recently returned in 2000 is the popular crystalline gold Fricot Nugget, weighing 201 ounces, the largest one found during the California Gold Rush. Also reflective of days gone is a working scale model of a stamp mill, demonstrating the process of gold extraction. Re-opening in Spring 2001 was the mining tunnel connected to the museum. It is an underground trip through time, allowing visitors to see and experience what a miner's life was like during the later part of the Gold Rush. The tunnel focuses on the lives of miners working in California's hard rock mines over a century ago. A visit to the California State Mining and Mineral Museum offers the visitor the chance to explore the wealth of the Mother Lode, view minerals and gems from around the world, and to experience a little bit of California's mining history adventures. Throughout the year special rotating displays from private collections and other institutions will be exhibited, making return trips to this museum well worth your time. Educators can call the museum for information on curriculum based educational programs for Grades 1 - 12 and college level. - California Mining and Mineral Museum
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