Baker Heritage Museum & Sumpter Dredge: A Geologic & Historic Tour
About this Event
Explore the rich geological and mining history of Eastern Oregon with renowned geologist Mark Ferns! Mark brings over four decades of expertise mapping gold veins, studying minerals, and sharing the captivating history of the region. Whether you attended his Oregon gold history lecture or the Leslie Gulch tour earlier this year, you know his depth of knowledge makes for an unforgettable experience.
You’ll receive an incredible Heritage Museum escorted tour, including the award-winning gold exhibit and the 1,350 square-foot of rock, gem, and mineral exhibit. Our incredible Heritage Museum tour will be followed by a short scenic drive and visit to the historic Sumpter Dredge.
Tour Leader: Mark Ferns, Professional Geologist, will be your expert Tour Guide.
Volunteer Facilitator: Rosalie Skefich will assist with all organizational details.
Sponsored by: Idaho Museum of Mining and Geology, www.idahomuseum.org
Cost: Free for IMMG Members & Kids | $20 for Non-members
(Plus $6 museum admission & optional cash donation at Sumpter Dredge)
Everyone must pre-register here or at www.idahomuseum.org/events.
ITINERARY: Note Time Change
9:40 AM MDT – Meet at Lowe’s in Meridian (305 W. Overland Rd, near the NE end of the parking lot) to organize carpools. Look for Rosalie’s red Ford Explorer.
10:00 AM MDT – Depart Meridian.
11:00 AM PDT – Guided tour of the Baker Heritage Museum ($6 cash admission) led by Mark Ferns.
12:30 PM PDT – Lunch (sack lunch or nearby eatery--Rosalie will be in touch )
1:30 PM PDT – Scenic drive to and walk around the Sumpter Valley Dredge State Heritage Area (donations appreciated).
3:00 PM PDT – Begin return journey.
6:00 PM MDT – Arrive back in Meridian.
WHAT TO BRING & IMPORTANT NOTES
Ø What to pack: Please bring a sack lunch, beverages, snacks, and cash for museum entry, Eatery cash/card if going out, Sumpter Dredge donations, or gas money if you are carpooling.
Ø Attire: Dress comfortably and appropriately for the day's weather.
Ø Facilities: Restrooms are available at all stops.
Ø Time Zone: Please note the time change between Mountain Time (MDT) and Pacific Time (PDT) during the drive.
MEET-UP with full tank of gas.
Register with a functioning email and check your email the evening before to be sure the trip hasn't been canceled! No charge if the event is canceled.
Attendance Limitations
Limited to 20 confirmed guests. Important to cancel online if unable to honor your reservation.
Contact Information
For questions, contact [email protected].
About the Guide
Mark Ferns was born and raised east of the historic mining camp of Jacksonville in Southern Oregon. His fascination with geology began early in life. After returning from the US Army in 1972, he earned geology degrees from the University of Oregon. In 1979, Ferns started his career as a geologist with the Oregon Department of Geology and Mineral Industries (DOGAMI), working in Baker City. His initial projects involved cataloging old reports and mapping gold veins in northeast Oregon. In the late 1980s, he led a geologic mapping project during a gold rush in the Owyhee country, contributing to new discoveries and expanding geological understanding.
After retiring in 2011, Ferns taught geology and mining history at Eastern Oregon University, developing engaging stories for students. He continues to live in Baker City, exploring geology and contributing to museum exhibits, with over 40 years of published geological maps and publications.
Waiver and Agreement
This adventure requires a waiver . By signing up for this field trip, the registered individual assumes all risks for themselves and those on their ticket, including possible dangers and hazards associated with the trip offered by the Idaho Museum of Mining and Geology (IMMG). The participant agrees to hold harmless the trip leaders, IMMG, and all officers and representatives from any claims, losses, or damages (including attorney’s fees and costs) arising from injury, death, property damage, inconvenience, or financial loss due to delay or other causes by reason of participation. The participant also acknowledges responsibility for carrying their own automobile, life, and health insurance and understands that use of alcohol or drugs may impair judgment and coordination, holding IMMG harmless from any claims resulting from such use.
For questions, please contact [email protected].
Where is it happening?
USD 0.00 to USD 23.18
