Customer Reviews

Michigan Gold: Mining in the Upper Peninsula

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Daniel Fountain's review of the history of gold mining in Michigan makes one feel as if present during the periods of discovery, mining and eventual phasing out of gold production in large amounts. Although no mines are currently in operation, Fountain does very little to discourage would-be prospectors; he in fact encourages people to get out and try their hands at panning for the mosty sought after metal in the world.

I visited the Gold mine in Northern Mich in the 1970's.
Lots of 2 track roads & ruts....this book brings back memories.
I went prospecting for Gold in the UP of Michigan in the 70's & found a "family" of friends instead.
They are worth much more than the gold that i could have found :)
Great book !!!!

This book is obviously a labor of love. It is very thoroughly researched, and provides a wealth of historical and statistical information on the gold mines of Michigan's Upper Peninsula. Snippets of Michigan's social and cultural history make the book more than a mere prospector's primer. There is also a generous amount of discussion devoted to mining technology.

However, I found that this scrupulous attention to detail frequently overshadowed the excitement of the gold discoveries themselves. In addition, quoting contemporary sources as to recoverable ounces per ton, and dollars per ton without frequent reference to a recent (i.e. c. 1990) commodity price tends to obfuscate the real or illusory potential economic value of these mines today, and frankly, that is what many readers are looking for.

Just where are these mines? It would be nice to have detailed maps, rather than latitude and longitude. Sure, I can go buy a USGS map to locate them, but it seems as if there is a bit too much secrecy here. Mr. Fountain should speak more plainly to this issue. Can readers go to these mines today? Is it worthwhile to go and dig or pan today? Are there local authorities who will assist the prospector? Are the lands public or private? How about a map and driving directions to some of the old works. Frankly, the State of Michigan should be promoting gold panning tourism for weekend prospectors or summer vacationers.

I was disappointed that the author did not discuss the environmental impact of mining on the watersheds of the Upper Peninsula. Mercury and cyanide are not particularly beneficial to deep acquifers, let alone surface waters. Surely, a book written in 1992, should have paid some attention to the dirty business of nineteenth century gold mining practices.

Should I go to the Upper Peninsula to find the mother lode, I will certainly consult this book again. Hopefully, I will get more out of it on the second reading.