Exciting New Arizona Gold Mining Experience Set to Launch!

The Cave Creek Museum is set to unveil the eagerly anticipated Arizona Gold Mining Experience (AZGME) to the public on Saturday, October 26, 2024. The immersive mining exhibition will operate from 10 AM to 11:15 AM, followed by the Gold Fever mine tour at 1 PM.

Visitors will start their journey in the museum’s lobby, where they will be introduced to the rich history of the Cave Creek mining district. Following this, guests will move outdoors for a series of demonstrations illustrating the hard rock ore extraction techniques that have become synonymous with the area.

The highlight of the experience features the arrastre, a primitive mill designed for grinding gold and silver ore. Attendees will be captivated by the Golden Reef Stamp Mill and Tramway, Arizona’s only working ten-stamp ore crushing mill. This impressive machinery was relocated from its original site at the Golden Reef Mine and operates five miles away at the museum. The complete setup includes a functional tramway and ore carts, providing a comprehensive view of the mining process.

Next, visitors will peer into a mineshaft showcasing the blasting methods employed by hard rock miners. The blacksmith shop will also feature demonstrations of the skills used for onsite tool fabrication. For an exhilarating experience, the museum will simulate dynamite explosions, illustrating how these innovations enhanced mining productivity while increasing dangers for miners.

Guests will have the opportunity to try their hand at gold panning, guided by museum volunteers who will share traditional methods used by early prospectors. Admission is priced at $15 for adults, while children under 12 can attend for free. Reservations are required to ensure participation.

The inaugural Gold Fever mine tour will also take place on October 26. Evelyn Johnson, the museum’s executive director, emphasizes the unique experience that awaits participants. The three-hour tour will transport guests in a 10-passenger 4WD Jeep into the Tonto National Forest, reaching the historic Ft. Worth Gold Mine. The journey features panoramic views as the elevation rises to 4,500 feet.

“The ride can be a little dusty and bouncy, but it’s a thrilling experience complemented by entertaining narration and educational photo stops,” states Johnson. Before embarking on the mine tour, guests can unwind at the off-grid gift shop, enjoying refreshments while taking in stunning views.

Upon reaching the gold mine, attendees will explore an array of 1800s artifacts recovered from the Ft. Worth Gold Mine site. This historic location played a pivotal role in the development of Cave Creek, Arizona, allowing visitors to engage with a knowledgeable guide as they trace the gold vein once pursued by prospector Edward G. Cave, also known as Old Rackensack.

Tickets can be reserved online at cavecreekmuseum.org, with capacity limitations in place. Visitors should arrive early, as check-in begins at 9 AM. Note that culture passes cannot be used for this event. Groups interested in special arrangements should contact the museum office. Following the AZGME, the Gold Fever mine tour costs an additional $145 per person, with no discounted rates available. Participants must check in by 12:45 PM. This tour supports the museum’s ongoing Arizona Gold Mining Experience, which occurs the second Saturday of each month. Future AZGME experiences and Rackensack gold mine tours are scheduled for November and December 2024.

Additionally, the Cave Creek Museum will host its popular “Dinner with a Side of History” spaghetti western fundraiser on November 12, 2024, from 4 PM to 7 PM at Harold’s Corral. This year, Arizona’s Six Gun Entertainment, LLC, will provide live entertainment, enhancing the western-themed atmosphere.

“Our tenth annual event features a lively auction alongside a delicious spaghetti dinner,” shares event co-chair Dave Griffiths. “We aim to highlight the intriguing history of our region.” Musical entertainment will be provided by local artist Kevin Causey, along with chances for attendees to win prizes. Proceeds from this event will help fund the museum’s educational programs and preservation efforts.

The dinner includes a buffet featuring spaghetti and meatballs, garden salad, garlic bread, and iced tea. Tickets are priced at $38 for adults and $15 for children ages 5-11; children under five dine for free. Limited tickets will be available, and no sales will occur on the event day. For more information and ticket purchases, visit cavecreekmuseum.org.

Sponsorship opportunities are available on the museum’s website, ranging from $100 to $1,000.

The Cave Creek Museum, located at 6140 E. Skyline Drive in Cave Creek, Arizona, is dedicated to preserving the cultural heritage of the Cave Creek Mining District. Open from October through May, the museum offers a wealth of educational resources and interactive exhibits for all ages.

Photo courtesy Fran Booth, ABC.