Holidays at the Empire Mine on November 29-30

A visit to Empire Mine is the ideal answer to the question, “What will we do after Thanksgiving?” Suddenly, you’ll be transported back to the early 1900s, when Empire Mine ranked as one of the oldest, largest and most prosperous hard-rock gold mines in North America.

“Here’s where larger-than-life characters shaped Northern California’s history – and for many, here is where their holiday season begins,” said Event Chair Patricia Speer.

“Historic Bourn Cottage will be decked out in holiday splendor with old-fashioned decorations. Docents in lavish, turn-of-the-century costumes will portray Mr. and Mrs. William Bourn, Jr. and Mr. and Mrs. George Starr.

Homemade cookies and spiced cider will be served in Katie Moriarty’s kitchen, and Katie’s always got a tale or two to tell about what it was like to be the Bourns’ housekeeper.” To add to the festive feel, live Celtic music will be played by the String Sisters.

Children will want to visit Santa and Mrs. Claus in the nearby clubhouse, where they can share their heartfelt holiday wishes. Beverages and snacks will be available for purchase outside.

For a close-up look at what a miner’s life was like, a visit to the old mine yard is highly recommended. The popular blacksmith shop will be open, and the smithies always have interesting stories to share.

For many, a visit to the Gift Shop on the way out is another highlight. “It’s full of unusual gift items, artifacts and mementoes,” Speer added, “including gifts for men. Each year we enjoy welcoming everyone to a holiday season full of history, gold and fun.”

Holidays at Empire Mine, November 29 and 30, Empire Mine State Historic Park in Grass Valley. Phone (530) 273-8522 for further information, or visit www.parks.ca.gov or www.empiremine.org.

Know & Go Information

Event: Holidays at Empire Mine
Dates: Friday, November 29 and Saturday, November 30, 2013
Where: Empire Mine State Historic Park
10791 E. Empire Street
Grass Valley, CA 95945
Times: Activities from 11:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
Cost: $7 for adults 17+, $3 for children 6-16, under 6 FREE
Information: (530) 273-8522, www.parks.ca.gov or www.empiremine.org

—By Courtney Ferguson; photos by Dreamspinner Productions

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