Down at the Big Thunder Mine

Way out west in Californy was the final destination of many pioneers, especially during the rush for gold in the 1840s and 50s. One of the largest claims was struck here in the desert, at the base of what the native people called Big Thunder Mountain. The landscape here was harsh and dry, with buttes and mesas reminiscent of those found in Monument Valley, Utah.

The Big Thunder Mine was built to tap into the rich vein of gold running under the mountain. The winch and pulley tower over the mine shaft, the sluice channels, ore cars and other equipment used in the mine can still be found here today. There are even some of the explosives once used to blast open the mountain.

This particular stack of dynamite is still attached to a timing device, ready to go off at any second!

Of course, the discovery of gold in Big Thunder was a boon to the tiny town of Tumbleweed. The population had dwindled during a long drought, and those who remained were getting desperate. They had heard about the riches in the mountain and about the ancient Indian legend that warned against disturbing it. The miners didn't listen, though, and they would end up paying the price.

The mountain rumbled with an earthquake and resulting avalanche. Storm clouds gathered. Lightning struck, and coyotes howled.

In an attempt to return the land to its once-fertile state, the townsfolk had turned to a purported "rain maker," one Professor Cumulus Isobar. When the floods came, the shyster initially took credit, but soon found that even he was overwhelmed by the deluge. (Note: When I went out recently to take the above photo, the good professor was out on sabbatical. Normally, he can be seen bailing water off the back porch of his wagon.)

Of course, some of the remaining residents of Tumbleweed have taken even this turn of events in stride. Cousin Orville's riding the waves in his bathtub, and the party in the Gold Dust Saloon continues. It's just moved up to the second floor! (Ride the attraction at night, and you can see the revelers through those upstairs windows.)

And what of the miners who ventured down into the heart of Big Thunder? Well, they were never heard from again. The old trains keep running, though, with not a soul at the controls. At least, not one anyone can see. Folks say the mine is haunted. Would you dare to venture down and see for yourself?