In this interview Ardis Comstock recounts her life story, focusing on her family's move to Nevada County, California during the Depression and the subsequent mining boom. Her father, a skilled carpenter and contractor, became highly sought-after for building homes for the influx of miners. Ardis describes her experiences attending school in a one-room schoolhouse, working at Douglas Aircraft... More

In this interview Ardis Comstock recounts her life story, focusing on her family's move to Nevada County, California during the Depression and the subsequent mining boom. Her father, a skilled carpenter and contractor, became highly sought-after for building homes for the influx of miners. Ardis describes her experiences attending school in a one-room schoolhouse, working at Douglas Aircraft during WWII, and her involvement with the Black Panthers through her husband David. She also details her family history, including her mother's immigration from Germany and her grandparents' lives as farmers and railroad workers. Throughout the interview, Ardis shares anecdotes about notable figures in the community, such as Lyman Gilmour, and reflects on the changes she has witnessed in Nevada County over the years. Less

David Comstock, a Nevada County historian, shares his life story and passion for local history in this interview. He discusses his early life in Oakland and Walnut Creek, his time in the Air Force, and his career in commercial art and publishing. Comstock recounts how he met his wife, Artis, and their shared dream of building a self-sufficient life in the Nevada County woods. He details their... More

David Comstock, a Nevada County historian, shares his life story and passion for local history in this interview. He discusses his early life in Oakland and Walnut Creek, his time in the Air Force, and his career in commercial art and publishing. Comstock recounts how he met his wife, Artis, and their shared dream of building a self-sufficient life in the Nevada County woods. He details their efforts to construct their own home and the challenges they faced. Comstock's fascination with the area's rich history led him to extensive research, resulting in the publication of several books and historical indexes. He emphasizes the importance of preserving historical accuracy and shares his ongoing work organizing and publishing historical records. Comstock's dedication to local history is evident in his meticulous approach to research and his commitment to making historical information accessible to others. Less

In this interview, Ed Hamilton, born in 1907, recounts his life story, focusing on his diverse work experiences and his passion for music. He discusses his early life in Montana, working in copper mines and learning about mining techniques. After moving to California, he worked various jobs, including in the gold mines, before settling in Grass Valley. Hamilton describes building his own house... More

In this interview, Ed Hamilton, born in 1907, recounts his life story, focusing on his diverse work experiences and his passion for music. He discusses his early life in Montana, working in copper mines and learning about mining techniques. After moving to California, he worked various jobs, including in the gold mines, before settling in Grass Valley. Hamilton describes building his own house while working long hours at the mine and later becoming involved in union activities. He shares his experiences working as a welder in shipyards during WWII and his return to Grass Valley after the war. Hamilton also talks about his ventures in the ready-mix concrete business and backhoe work, as well as his love for music and playing in bands throughout his life. The interview concludes with Hamilton reflecting on his health challenges and his contentment with his current living situation. Less

Glenn Jones, born in Nevada City in 1924, recounts his lifelong experiences in Grass Valley, California, with a focus on the region's mining history and the changing local industries. He describes attending school and working various jobs as a young boy, including delivering newspapers and working in a bakery and butcher shop. He recalls the lack of refrigeration and the delivery of ice and... More

Glenn Jones, born in Nevada City in 1924, recounts his lifelong experiences in Grass Valley, California, with a focus on the region's mining history and the changing local industries. He describes attending school and working various jobs as a young boy, including delivering newspapers and working in a bakery and butcher shop. He recalls the lack of refrigeration and the delivery of ice and vegetables by Chinese immigrants, highlighting the significant presence of a Chinese community in the area. He then discusses his experiences working in the family hardware business, which had been established in 1854 and remained in the family for over 110 years. He details the construction of the fireproof hardware store building, emphasizing the necessity of such measures due to frequent fires in early towns. He also shares his memories of working in various industries during WWII, including construction, carpentry, and glazing, and his subsequent service in the Navy as a gunner's mate. He reflects on the challenges and rewards of his time in the Navy, particularly his extensive travels throughout Alaska. The interview also covers his involvement in the creation of the local mining exhibit, his insights into the realities of high-grading in the mines, and his recollections of harsh winters and the community's resilience in the face of heavy snowfall and limited resources. Less

Phil Oyang, born in 1938, recounts his family history and experiences growing up in a cabin behind the Empire Mill in Grass Valley, California. His grandparents immigrated from China around the turn of the century and worked for the mine owners. Phil's father arrived in 1916, followed by his mother in 1924. The family cabin, initially a one-room dwelling, was gradually expanded to accommodate... More

Phil Oyang, born in 1938, recounts his family history and experiences growing up in a cabin behind the Empire Mill in Grass Valley, California. His grandparents immigrated from China around the turn of the century and worked for the mine owners. Phil's father arrived in 1916, followed by his mother in 1924. The family cabin, initially a one-room dwelling, was gradually expanded to accommodate their growing family. Phil describes the close-knit community and the challenges of life in a mining town, including the risks associated with mining work and the prevalence of high-grading. He also shares anecdotes about his family's interactions with the mine owners and the local community, highlighting the unique cultural blend of Chinese traditions and American life. Phil's stories offer a personal perspective on the history of the Empire Mine and the people who lived and worked there. Less

Rolf Laessig, interviewed by Gary Kisor, recounts his time restoring mining equipment at the North Star Mining Museum in Grass Valley, California. Laessig began his work under Rudy Caesar, focusing on restoring a dynamite packing machine and a steam donkey. He emphasizes the challenges of working without plans or drawings, relying on ingenuity and problem-solving skills. Laessig also discusses... More

Rolf Laessig, interviewed by Gary Kisor, recounts his time restoring mining equipment at the North Star Mining Museum in Grass Valley, California. Laessig began his work under Rudy Caesar, focusing on restoring a dynamite packing machine and a steam donkey. He emphasizes the challenges of working without plans or drawings, relying on ingenuity and problem-solving skills. Laessig also discusses his collaborations with other individuals, including Bob Shoemaker and Perry, a skilled carpenter. The conversation touches on various restored machines, their origins, and the intricacies of their mechanisms. Laessig's dedication to preserving the museum's artifacts and his passion for mechanical restoration are evident throughout the interview. The transcript also includes a brief exchange about the museum's history and the contributions of figures like Glenn Jones. Less

Ruth Tremoreux, born in Nevada City, California in 1916, shares her life story and memories of growing up in the area. She recalls attending local schools, the rivalry between Nevada City and Grass Valley, and the burning down of her high school. After graduating, she pursued a teaching career, influenced by her father's wishes for her to have a profession. Tremoreux taught in various locations,... More

Ruth Tremoreux, born in Nevada City, California in 1916, shares her life story and memories of growing up in the area. She recalls attending local schools, the rivalry between Nevada City and Grass Valley, and the burning down of her high school. After graduating, she pursued a teaching career, influenced by her father's wishes for her to have a profession. Tremoreux taught in various locations, including Calistoga and Grass Valley, before getting married and moving to San Francisco. She describes her family life, including her two daughters and their children. Tremoreux also delves into her family history, mentioning her parents and grandparents who were prominent figures in Nevada City. She recounts her childhood experiences living on Nevada Street, her interactions with local families like the Fults and the Laws, and her memories of the mining industry's impact on the region. Throughout the interview, Tremoreux reflects on the changes she has witnessed in Nevada City and Grass Valley over the years, offering a personal perspective on the area's history and development. Less

This interview discusses the Ingram family and their deep roots in Grass Valley, California. Vinnie Ingram (née Beck) recounts her family history, her marriage to Maris Ingram, and their sons' careers in journalism. She also shares anecdotes about her husband's family, including his father, a state senator who was highly respected in the community. The conversation touches on various aspects of... More

This interview discusses the Ingram family and their deep roots in Grass Valley, California. Vinnie Ingram (née Beck) recounts her family history, her marriage to Maris Ingram, and their sons' careers in journalism. She also shares anecdotes about her husband's family, including his father, a state senator who was highly respected in the community. The conversation touches on various aspects of life in Grass Valley, including changes over time, the impact of the mining industry, and the importance of community involvement. Genevieve Ingram, Vinnie's niece by marriage, adds her perspective on growing up in Nevada City, a neighboring town. The interview offers a glimpse into the lives of two women connected by family and their shared experiences in this historic region of California. Less

Grass Valley, California, nestled in the Sierra Nevada foothills, was once a central hub for gold mining in the United States. Its transformation from a rest stop for weary travelers to a booming mining town began with the discovery of gold-filled quartz in 1850. This revelation led to the development of hard rock mining techniques, which revolutionized the industry. The town's rich history is... More

Grass Valley, California, nestled in the Sierra Nevada foothills, was once a central hub for gold mining in the United States. Its transformation from a rest stop for weary travelers to a booming mining town began with the discovery of gold-filled quartz in 1850. This revelation led to the development of hard rock mining techniques, which revolutionized the industry. The town's rich history is reflected in its landmarks, including Mill Street, where miners once processed stolen high-grade ore under the cover of darkness, and the homes of famous figures like Lola Montez and Lotta Crabtree. The growth of the mining industry also spurred the development of essential infrastructure, such as churches, schools, and hotels. The Holbrooke Hotel, in particular, thrived during the Great Depression due to the increased demand for gold. Nevada County's mining success was further solidified by the Empire, North Star, and Idaho Maryland mines, which were among the richest in the state. The mines' operations led to numerous innovations in mining technology and transportation, including the use of Cornish pumps, pneumatic rock drills, and the construction of the Nevada County narrow gauge railroad. The legacy of the mines extends beyond their economic impact, as they also played a crucial role in the development of the local community, contributing to the establishment of schools, parks, and hospitals. Despite the closure of the mines in the mid-20th century, their historical significance and the potential for future gold extraction continue to shape the identity of Grass Valley today. Less

The American River in California was the site of a gold discovery in 1848 that sparked a massive influx of prospectors and transformed the region. Nevada City, with its historic buildings like the City Museum and the National Hotel, became a central hub in the Northern Mine area. Grass Valley, another prominent mining town, owes its growth to the discovery of gold-filled quartz by George Knight... More

The American River in California was the site of a gold discovery in 1848 that sparked a massive influx of prospectors and transformed the region. Nevada City, with its historic buildings like the City Museum and the National Hotel, became a central hub in the Northern Mine area. Grass Valley, another prominent mining town, owes its growth to the discovery of gold-filled quartz by George Knight. The mines in Grass Valley and Nevada County produced immense wealth and led to innovations in mining technology. The region also boasts a rich history beyond mining, with figures like Lola Montez and Lotta Crabtree leaving their mark. Transportation routes, including stagecoach lines and toll roads, played a crucial role in connecting the mining communities. Remnants of the mining era, such as abandoned buildings and equipment, can still be found throughout the area. Despite the decline of mining, towns like Grass Valley continue to thrive, preserving their historical legacy while embracing modernity. The enduring beauty of the Sierra Nevada foothills, with its rushing streams and picturesque landscapes, further adds to the allure of this region steeped in gold rush history. Less

This documentary explores the history of Nevada City, California, a prominent city during the Gold Rush era. It begins by describing the initial discovery of gold in California by James Marshall in 1848, which led to a massive influx of prospectors. Nevada City, initially known as Deer Creek Dry Diggins, quickly became a central hub for mining activity due to its rich gold deposits. The... More

This documentary explores the history of Nevada City, California, a prominent city during the Gold Rush era. It begins by describing the initial discovery of gold in California by James Marshall in 1848, which led to a massive influx of prospectors. Nevada City, initially known as Deer Creek Dry Diggins, quickly became a central hub for mining activity due to its rich gold deposits. The documentary details the challenges faced by early miners, including the transition from placer mining to more complex techniques like hydraulic mining. It highlights the contributions of individuals like E.E. Matteson and Eli Miller, who developed innovative methods for gold extraction. The narrative also touches upon the transformation of Nevada City into a bustling town with a diverse population, including a significant Chinese community. The establishment of essential infrastructure, such as the Nevada County Narrow Gauge Railroad, further solidified the city's importance. The documentary concludes by emphasizing Nevada City's enduring legacy as a well-preserved example of Gold Rush-era architecture and its continued efforts to honor its historical past. Less

The Nevada County Narrow Gauge Railroad, a 22-mile short line, played a vital role in the development of Nevada County, California, during the Gold Rush era. Built without government subsidies, the railroad facilitated the transportation of goods, including gold shipments worth over a quarter of a billion dollars, between the mines and the Transcontinental Railhead at Colfax. The railroad's... More

The Nevada County Narrow Gauge Railroad, a 22-mile short line, played a vital role in the development of Nevada County, California, during the Gold Rush era. Built without government subsidies, the railroad facilitated the transportation of goods, including gold shipments worth over a quarter of a billion dollars, between the mines and the Transcontinental Railhead at Colfax. The railroad's construction, spearheaded by local leaders like Judge Niall Searle and John Coleman, began in Colfax in 1875 and reached Nevada City in 1876. The route featured several impressive wooden trestles, including the Bear River Bridge, the highest railroad bridge in California at the time. The railroad faced challenges, such as the decline of hydraulic mining and competition from improved roads and trucks, leading to its eventual closure and sale for scrap metal in 1940. However, its legacy lives on through the efforts of organizations like the Nevada County Historical Society and the Grass Valley Video History Museum, which preserve artifacts and share the story of this once-vital transportation link. Less

This documentary describes the history of the Nevada County Traction Company trolley line that ran between Nevada City and Grass Valley, California from 1901 to 1924. The narrative follows the trolley's route, highlighting key landmarks and obstacles encountered along the way, such as the need to reinforce the plaza bridge in Nevada City due to weight concerns. The trolley faced challenges,... More

This documentary describes the history of the Nevada County Traction Company trolley line that ran between Nevada City and Grass Valley, California from 1901 to 1924. The narrative follows the trolley's route, highlighting key landmarks and obstacles encountered along the way, such as the need to reinforce the plaza bridge in Nevada City due to weight concerns. The trolley faced challenges, including limited power within Nevada City limits and steep grades that sometimes required passengers to disembark and push. The route passed through areas that have since been transformed by the construction of freeways, with former stops and depots replaced by modern businesses and infrastructure. The trolley's decline was attributed to harsh winter weather and the growing popularity of automobiles, leading to its eventual closure in 1924. Remnants of the trolley line, like the car barn in Grass Valley, can still be found, serving as reminders of this bygone era of transportation in Nevada County. Less

In this documentary, Gary Tintle recounts in 2003 the rebuilding of the Elks Building in Nevada City after it was destroyed in a fire. He describes the challenges faced during the demolition and reconstruction, including a complex foundation system due to unsuitable soil conditions. Tintle emphasizes the community's support and the collaboration between various teams, including architects,... More

In this documentary, Gary Tintle recounts in 2003 the rebuilding of the Elks Building in Nevada City after it was destroyed in a fire. He describes the challenges faced during the demolition and reconstruction, including a complex foundation system due to unsuitable soil conditions. Tintle emphasizes the community's support and the collaboration between various teams, including architects, engineers, and subcontractors. He highlights the use of local resources, such as reclaimed bricks, and the commitment to preserving the building's historical character while incorporating modern safety features. The project faced numerous obstacles, including logistical issues and the need to adhere to strict building codes and regulations. Despite these challenges, Tintle expresses his satisfaction with the final result, describing the building as a beautiful and well-constructed testament to the resilience and collaborative spirit of the Nevada City community. Less

In the first section, an interviewer talks with Jim Flanagan, a mechanic at the Auburn Airport, about a plane he's been working on for ten years. Flanagan discusses the plane's history, including a crash that required an engine replacement. He explains that the current engine is powerful and reliable, but also expensive to maintain. Flanagan expresses confidence in the plane's safety, though he... More

In the first section, an interviewer talks with Jim Flanagan, a mechanic at the Auburn Airport, about a plane he's been working on for ten years. Flanagan discusses the plane's history, including a crash that required an engine replacement. He explains that the current engine is powerful and reliable, but also expensive to maintain. Flanagan expresses confidence in the plane's safety, though he admits he would need a refresher course before flying it himself. The conversation also touches on the history of aviation, with Flanagan recalling the affordability of surplus planes after World War II. He contrasts this with the high cost of modern aircraft parts, emphasizing the challenges of maintaining older planes.

In the second section, the interviewer speaks with Bonnie Palmer about her fascination with Lyman Gilmore, a pioneer aviator from Grass Valley. Palmer, a former teacher, describes her extensive research on Gilmore, driven by a desire to document his accomplishments and contributions to aviation. She shares newspaper clippings and other historical records that highlight Gilmore's early flights and his innovative ideas. Palmer emphasizes Gilmore's passion for aviation and his concern for the environment, portraying him as a visionary ahead of his time. The conversation also touches on the challenges Gilmore faced, including setbacks with his early aircraft and the theft of his gyroscopic equipment. Palmer's dedication to preserving Gilmore's legacy is evident throughout the interview. Less

This documentary narrates the California Gold Rush, triggered by James Marshall's discovery of gold in 1848. The news spread rapidly, causing a mass migration of people from various backgrounds and professions to California. The gold rush significantly impacted the lives of individuals like John Sutter, whose sawmill and agricultural empire were disrupted by the influx of miners, and James... More

This documentary narrates the California Gold Rush, triggered by James Marshall's discovery of gold in 1848. The news spread rapidly, causing a mass migration of people from various backgrounds and professions to California. The gold rush significantly impacted the lives of individuals like John Sutter, whose sawmill and agricultural empire were disrupted by the influx of miners, and James Marshall himself, who faced numerous setbacks and ultimately died penniless. The documentary also highlights the experiences of gold seekers, including those who traveled by sea and overland, facing hardships and uncertainties in their pursuit of wealth. It also touches on the social and environmental consequences of the gold rush, such as conflicts between miners and Native Americans, the rise of boomtowns, and the transformation of the California landscape due to extensive mining operations. Despite the challenges and complexities, the California Gold Rush remains a significant chapter in American history, shaping the development of the state and leaving a lasting legacy. Less

This documentary describes the history of hydraulic mining in Nevada County, California. It begins by describing the early days of placer mining, where miners used picks, shovels, and gold pans to extract gold from rivers and streams. As the easily accessible gold was depleted, miners turned to hydraulic mining, which used high-pressure water jets to dislodge gold-bearing gravel. This method,... More

This documentary describes the history of hydraulic mining in Nevada County, California. It begins by describing the early days of placer mining, where miners used picks, shovels, and gold pans to extract gold from rivers and streams. As the easily accessible gold was depleted, miners turned to hydraulic mining, which used high-pressure water jets to dislodge gold-bearing gravel. This method, while efficient, caused significant environmental damage due to the large amounts of debris it released into rivers and streams. The documentary details the conflict between hydraulic miners and downstream farmers, who suffered from the pollution and flooding caused by mining debris. Legal battles ensued, culminating in a landmark court decision in 1884 that effectively banned hydraulic mining. The documentary concludes by discussing the lasting impact of hydraulic mining on the region and the ongoing efforts to balance the economic benefits of mining with environmental concerns. Less

A plaque dedication ceremony was held at 545 Main Street in Nevada City, focusing on the house's history and its occupants, primarily the Searls family. The event began with acknowledgments of the current homeowners, Paul and Susan Zimmerman, for hosting the event and allowing the plaque placement. Dave Comstock, a local historian, provided a brief overview of the house's history, mentioning its... More

A plaque dedication ceremony was held at 545 Main Street in Nevada City, focusing on the house's history and its occupants, primarily the Searls family. The event began with acknowledgments of the current homeowners, Paul and Susan Zimmerman, for hosting the event and allowing the plaque placement. Dave Comstock, a local historian, provided a brief overview of the house's history, mentioning its first owner, Edward Spence, and subsequent owners, including Addison Niles and Niles Searles. The Searls family occupied the house for a significant period, and several family members were present at the ceremony. Niles Searles, John Drew (representing his mother), and Gwen Searls shared their memories of living in the house and their connections to the local mining industry. The ceremony concluded with the official dedication of the plaque, recognizing the house as a significant local landmark. Less

This video is of a ceremony dedicating the Doris Foley Library of Historical Research. The event begins with Neil Lock, chairman of the Nevada County Historical Landmarks Commission, introducing the first speaker, Ed Tyson. Tyson, a volunteer at the library, highlights the significance of having two separate historical libraries in Nevada City, emphasizing their complementary nature and the... More

This video is of a ceremony dedicating the Doris Foley Library of Historical Research. The event begins with Neil Lock, chairman of the Nevada County Historical Landmarks Commission, introducing the first speaker, Ed Tyson. Tyson, a volunteer at the library, highlights the significance of having two separate historical libraries in Nevada City, emphasizing their complementary nature and the unique value of their collections. He notes the extensive genealogical resources available and the library's popularity among researchers from around the world. The mayor of Nevada City then reads a proclamation honoring Doris Foley's contributions as an educator, historian, and writer. Madeline Helling, a former county librarian, shares statistics on Foley's impressive accomplishments, including the cataloging of thousands of books, documents, and photographs. She praises Foley's dedication and lasting impact on the community. Beryl Robertson Jr., the city manager, introduces Bob Foley, Doris Foley's son. Bob Foley expresses his gratitude for the recognition of his mother's work and shares personal anecdotes about her life and passion for Nevada County history. He concludes by thanking the city, county, and historical organizations for their tribute to his mother. Less

This film reel is a collection of footage of Truckee, California, and specifically the Hobart Mills logging operation. The first part includes scenes of a Fourth of July parade in Truckee in 1922, featuring a Monarch tractor and locomotive No. 4 with its engineer, Stan Wright. Several scenes showcase the Hobart Mills lumber operation, including logging trains leaving the woods, arriving at the... More

This film reel is a collection of footage of Truckee, California, and specifically the Hobart Mills logging operation. The first part includes scenes of a Fourth of July parade in Truckee in 1922, featuring a Monarch tractor and locomotive No. 4 with its engineer, Stan Wright. Several scenes showcase the Hobart Mills lumber operation, including logging trains leaving the woods, arriving at the mill, and unloading logs at the pond. The dangerous nature of the work is illustrated by a photo of a wrecked logging train. The second part of the film reel focuses on the maintenance and challenges of running the mill, with images of reservoir cleaning, a disused locomotive, bridge repair, and a derailed engine in the turntable pit. Scenes of the sawmill from various angles and lumber being transported offer a glimpse into the mill's operations. The film reel concludes with images of life at Hobart Mills, including a tractor in the snow, a couple ice skating, boys ski jumping, and a railroad engine clearing snow from the lumber yard. Less

A historical drama set in Grass Valley, California during a mining strike. The story revolves around the introduction of a new explosive, giant powder, which is more efficient but also more dangerous for the miners. The miners, led by Tom Collier, strongly oppose its use due to health concerns and potential job losses. Jack Wales, a miner with a family to support, faces a dilemma between joining... More

A historical drama set in Grass Valley, California during a mining strike. The story revolves around the introduction of a new explosive, giant powder, which is more efficient but also more dangerous for the miners. The miners, led by Tom Collier, strongly oppose its use due to health concerns and potential job losses. Jack Wales, a miner with a family to support, faces a dilemma between joining the strike and providing for his loved ones. His wife, Jenny, resorts to singing in a tavern to make ends meet, causing tension in their relationship. Meanwhile, Father Dalton, struggling with the orphanage's financial difficulties, seeks support from the legislature in Sacramento. The narrative highlights the harsh realities of mining life, the conflict between workers and mine owners, and the resilience of the community in the face of adversity. Less

Part Two of a historical drama set in Grass Valley, California, during a mining strike. The narrative touches on various interconnected plotlines: the miners' resistance to the introduction of giant powder due to safety concerns, the financial struggles of the local orphanage, and the personal challenges faced by individuals like Jack Wales' widow, Jenny, who turns to singing in a tavern to... More

Part Two of a historical drama set in Grass Valley, California, during a mining strike. The narrative touches on various interconnected plotlines: the miners' resistance to the introduction of giant powder due to safety concerns, the financial struggles of the local orphanage, and the personal challenges faced by individuals like Jack Wales' widow, Jenny, who turns to singing in a tavern to support her child. The script also highlights the role of influential figures like Mr. Bourn and Father Dalton in shaping the town's dynamics. Themes of social injustice, economic hardship, and community resilience are woven throughout the dialogue, painting a vivid picture of life in a 19th-century mining town. Less