The Chollar Mine is a historic gold mine and Nevada State Historic Marker Number 209, located in Virginia City, Nevada, United States. The mine was discovered in 1859 during the famous Comstock Lode, which was the first major silver deposit discovery in the United States. The Chollar Mine was primarily a gold mine, and is located on the eastern slope of Sun Mountain.
The Chollar Mine was one of the most productive mines during the Comstock Lode era, and it operated continuously until 1942. The mine was known for producing high-grade gold ore, which was extracted using traditional mining methods such as pick and shovel, as well as dynamite. The mine reached a depth of over 1,600 feet, and had extensive underground workings.
The mine is open for guided tours, which take visitors deep into the underground workings of the mine. Visitors can see the original equipment used to extract gold ore, such as air-powered drills and ore carts. The tour also provides information on the history of the Comstock Lode, the miners who worked at the Chollar Mine, and the mining techniques used during that era.
One of the highlights of the Chollar Mine tour is the view of the impressive “Glory Hole.” This was a large vertical shaft that was used to extract ore from the deep levels of the mine. Visitors can see the shaft and the surrounding structures that supported the mine.
The Chollar Mine is a fascinating piece of American mining history, offering visitors an opportunity to learn about the challenges and triumphs of the early miners who worked there. The mine tour is a must-see for anyone interested in mining history or the American West, and Virginia City provides a charming backdrop to this important piece of history.
Nevada State Historic Marker Text
Nevada State Historical Markers identify significant places of interest in Nevada’s history. The Nevada State Legislature started the program in 1967 to bring the state’s heritage to the public’s attention with on-site markers. Budget cuts the program became dormant in 2009.
First located in 1859, the Chollar was consolidated with the Potosi in 1865. As the Chollar-Potosi, it was one of the leading producers on the Comstock. The Nevada Mill was erected here in 1887 to process low-grade Chollar ore. It was the last to use the Washoe Pan Process, but the first on the Comstock to generate and utilize electric power.
State Historical Marker Number 209
Nevada State Historic Marker Summary
| Name | Chollar Mine |
| Location | Virginia City, Storey County, Nevada |
| Nevada State Historic Marker | 209 |
| Latitude, Longitude | 39.3016, -119.6502 |
Chollar Mine Location
The Nevada State Historic Marker number 209 is found in Virginia City, Storey County, Nevada. The Chllar Mine Marker is located at the intersection of F Street and Nevada Route 341 on F Street. Marker is at or near this postal address: 615 South F Street, Virginia City NV 89440, United States