One of the last Macon County's mines where you still
dig your own dirt, which can contain different color sapphires or rubies. Four flumes
with ample running water coming from the Burningtown Creek (stocked trout stream)
are available to wash your dirt to expose the gravels containing the gemstones. The
stream water can be very chilly, so you may want some latex lined gloves while you
are washing your gravel. Glass beverage containers shall not be permitted, but metal
or plastic are allowed. Over the years, many stones have come out of this mine which
was leased to mining companies in the latter part of the last century searching for abrasive
material, corundum, and has been in the Mason's family since then. Currently managed
by Pete Civitello, Patsy Ukele, and Norman Holloway. You will be provided all the tools needed
with your paid mining fees. Special rates for groups of 10 or more
Snacks,
drinks, well maintained porta-johns, picnic tables, and primitive camping all available.
The snacks and drinks are moderately priced, and camping also is quite reasonable.
If primitive camping is too rugged for you and you would like something a little more like home close to our mine, Carolina Mountain Top Homes off of Ray Creek Road, the road before the last bridge, has cabin rentals available. Click the links for more information. cmthomes@yahoo.com www.cmthomes.com
Currently, all 4 flumes are able to handle miners washing their gravels of which two are covered with clear UV resistant plastic roofing, which comes in handy on the rainy days which occur.
Sorry, No credit cards or checks are accepted.
When I first saw these pictures, I asked myself "What happened?" Well, now for the rest of the story. It seems that some excavating needed to be done in the minining area and in a split moment of time, the soggy piedmont soil could no longer hold the weight of the trackhoe, thus yielding the left side picture. A halt of the work until the next day with fuel added and a new vision on the horizon, the trackhoe dug itself out of a deep mess of mud. Able to sheepishly meander across the road and get a good hose bath. ( no bubbles) This reminded me of the story of life as I have seen and been.
No matter how bad it seems, the human spirit will find a way to see the light at the end of the tunnel. With retrospect to the event, I dub the "Mud Mosquito" Dennis U.
Pete Civitello, owner
Patsy Ukele, associate
Norman Holloway, associate
Judie Johnson, registration/concessions
Charlie Beechley, operator
Wesley Hayes, operator
Derrick Christenson walking the mine's new guard dog, "Woodie".
And of course the Pavillion has the attack cat "Levy". He sometimes
forgets to wear his name badge.
And as advertised, the handicapped miner can also enjoy the experience.
Our first anniversary watermelon for all on July 2, 2008. Time
has flown by, and we have made a lot of new friends and had some
very good times during the first year. MORE TO COME!!
Leave us e-mail at: dennisu357@peoplepc.com
Comments or pictures taken will
be welcome and your comments and or pictures may show up on the Miners Comments page.
