The Reed Gold mine is the location of the first documented gold found in America, and your chance to witness the site of our nation’s original gold rush. Before the California gold rush of 1948, North Carolina led the nation in gold mining, producing over one million dollars a year.
After stumbling upon a large yellow rock the Reed family had just uncovered the first documented gold in America. After three years as a doorstop the 17-pound rock was purchased by a jeweler in 1802 for a stunning $3.50. The next year the Reed family began mining. John Reed formed a partnership with three men to develop Reed mining. The partners pitched in with tools and workers while Reed provided the land. During their first year workers uncovered a mammoth 28-pound nugget.
Today the story of John Reed is preserved at the historical Reed Gold mine. You can come and learn about the techniques and tools used for mining back in the 1800’s. You get first hand experience heading down the dark mining tunnels and try to find a piece of John Reeds fortune while you pan for gold in the stream.
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Things to know:
Region: North Carolina Heartland
Getting there: From the south, take Highway 27 and turn right on Albemarle road. Take a left at Reed Mine Road. From the north, take I-85 to exit 58 heading toward Concord. Continue past Concord and take a left at Reed Mine Road.
Related Onsite Offerings: The visitor center features an orientation film describing North Carolina’s gold mining industry.
Dates and Times: The Reed Gold mine is open in Spring/Summer season Tuesday through Saturday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Winter Hours are Tuesday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Photo courtesy of Flickr - deltaMike
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