The North Star Powerhouse Mining Museum

Since the state's gold rush days, California has embraced and celebrated mining. The North Star Powerhouse Mining Museum honors this history. The actual North Star Mine was the location of the world's first tangential water wheel. The mine is a state historic landmark and the actual mine is the site of the museum. The museum is located right by Wolf Creek where gold was discovered in 1848. The mine was influenced by competition in the area, where more than 95 other mines have existed at one time or another. The North Star Mine was the area's deepest mine at 4,000-feet. It was this challenging depth that prompted the creation and use of the Pelton wheel. In addition to the mine, an additional acre of land was donated for the museum, and the wheel was donated to the historical society after a resident saved it from destruction. The museum is a hotspot for those who love the development of technology or the history of the gold rush era. The curator of the museum offers walking tours that are packed with information. Admission is free but the museum accepts donations. If you are planning a trip to the area, schedule a tour of this mine and others in the area and enjoy the quaint feeling of this historic mining town.