The Lost Cement Mine
In 1857, two miners wandering lost in the Eastern Sierra discovered a vein of rich, red volcanic cement-like rock that was packed with pure gold. They chipped off a few pounds of the rock, showing it to others when they made it to town. In 1860, one of the miners died, but left.
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- Target Name: The Lost Cement Mine
- Registry Category: lost mine
- Geographic Location: Near Mammoth Lakes, Mono County (Coordinates:
37.74290, -119.01130) - Land Status: National Forest (Allowed) (Classified as Claim / Rule Check)
- Primary Historic Source: Legends of America - Lost Cement Gold Mine of Mammoth Mountain, California
- Search & Usefulness Rating: Score 52/100 (Field Readiness: Claim Check First)
- Summary Overview: In 1857, two miners wandering lost in the Eastern Sierra discovered a vein of rich, red volcanic cement-like rock that was packed with pure gold. They chipped off a few pounds of the rock, showing.
Historical Overview
In 1857, two miners wandering lost in the Eastern Sierra discovered a vein of rich, red volcanic cement-like rock that was packed with pure gold. They chipped off a few pounds of the rock, showing it to others when they made it to town. In 1860, one of the miners died, but left a map to the site to a friend. Famous figures, including Mark Twain and the legendary guide Gid Whiteman, searched extensively for the "red ledge" near the headwaters of the Owens River. Some believe it lies buried under a volcanic ash layer from more recent geological activity.
Field Search & Recovery Tips
Concentrate your efforts in the Devils Postpile / Mammoth Scenic Loop area. Look for outcrops of reddish volcanic tuff or cement-like conglomerates.
Field Action Checklist
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National Forest (Allowed)
Legal & Permit Review
Recommended Outfitting
Legends of America - Lost Cement Gold Mine of Mammoth Mountain, California
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