Stories of Gold Discoveries in the Oregon Country

Geologist Mark Ferns will trace the interesting history of gold discoveries in Oregon. A history of the who's, where's, and when's of Oregon's gold discoveries are gleaned from news reports, letters, diaries, and publications in addition to the author's personal experiences. The story begins on the Siskiyou Trail with James Dana in 1841 and proceeds through the 1845 Lost Wagon Train to the early discoveries in Southwest and Northeast Oregon in the 1850's and 1860's. Simplified geology maps, photographs, and stories of later discoveries will take you into current day.

Mark’s book, “The Search for Gold in Oregon”, will be on sale.

From Mark Ferns:

Born and raised only a short distance east of the historic mining camp of Jacksonville in Southern Oregon, I became fascinated with geology at an early age. After returning from the US Army in 1972, I managed to get degrees in geology from the University of Oregon. In 1979, I began a career as a geologist with the Oregon Department of Geology and Mineral Industries (DOGAMI), working out of northeast Oregon’s Baker City Field Office. One of the first projects required filling out forms for a computerized inventory program. Which led me on a search through every DOGAMI dusty nook and cranny for old reports, notes, and news articles. While mapping in the early 1980s, I saw many of northeast Oregon's gold veins. When the Owyhee country of Southeast Oregon became a DOGAMI priority in the late 1980s, I found myself leading a geologic mapping project during a gold rush. It was a hoot!! An exciting time with new gold discoveries and an expanded understanding of the geology story.

After retiring in 2011, the opportunity to teach a few classes covering the geology and mining history at Eastern Oregon University came along. That forced me to put together stories that people could understand and enjoy. Today, I find myself still living in Baker City while continuing to dabble in the science of geology and seeking to hear just exactly what the rocks are saying. The opportunity to help with the Baker Regional Museum’s new gold exhibit provided the much-needed incentive to write some words down on paper. After spending more than 50 years wearing out my body while wandering around in the Oregon brush, it is time to share some thoughts and experiences about Oregon’s geology and rich mining heritage. I have 40+ years’ worth of published geologic maps and publications to atone for.

Mark is a long-time volunteer for the IMMG in the past, having led numerous field trips. He has expressed leading more next year, perhaps to Leslie Gulch or Jordan Craters. Stay tuned!

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Host or Publisher Idaho Museum of Mining and Geology