Tim Elam, Historic Gold Mining in Kern County

Historic Gold Mining in Kern County

January 18, 2025

1:30 PM

Kern County has been the home to numerous gold mining ventures. The discovery of Kern County gold in 1852, during the California Gold Rush, was a primary reason American, European, and Chinese settlers came to the county. Numerous underground and open-pit mines existed throughout the late 1800’s and early 1900’s. These operations occurred in the Mojave Desert, southern Sierra Nevada, and Tehachapi/San Emigdio Mountains. At least four million ounces of gold have been mined from the county… yet millions of ounces remain.

The boom-and-bust cycle of each discovery fostered unbelievable yet true stories. This presentation is designed to tell human interest stories of Randsburg, Havilah, Keyesville, and other mining communities of the 19th and early 20th centuries. What elaborate scheme allowed a Mojave Desert gold discovery to stay secret? Why did a man run through downtown Havilah wearing only a necktie? Why was Kern County’s first golf course in the Mojave Desert? What woman bankrolled three successful prospectors for two years, ultimately making them all rich? What clay mining area accidently turned into a gold mining area?

Join geologist Tim Elam as he takes you on a rich photographic tour of the history and location of gold mining in Kern County.

The presentation will be informal, and no geologic background is necessary to enjoy the event. There will be no extra charge for attending this event…just the normal Museum entrance fee.