History enthusiasts will find a lot to love when exploring Ouray. Once extremely popular with miners, the remnants of these mines can still be found in varying degrees, nestled in the mountains near the ruins of former ghost towns. One of these mines that’s still visible to this day is Camp Bird Mine. As for its somewhat unusual name, it is believed to have come from the Rocky Mountain jays which were known to steal the lunch of local miners.
Irish-American miner Thomas F. Walsh discovered Camp Bird Mine way back in 1896. During its heyday, the mine would produce a whopping 1.5 million troy ounces of gold and more than three million of silver. When adjusted for inflation in 2009, the mine had produced more than $1 billion.
Walsh sold Camp Bird Mine for just over $5 million dollars in the early 1900s. His daughter Evalyn Walsh McLean American would then go on to purchase the Hope Diamond which is considered one of most famous jewels in the world with a deep history dating back more than three centuries.
Here’s an interesting piece of trivia: though it is inactive today, Camp Bird Mine did, in fact, apply for a mining permit back in 2007.
This update is provided by The River’s Edge Motel Lodge & Resort. You’ll find five unique types of Ouray Colorado hotels at our location on the banks of the Uncompahgre River, and every single room has a view of the mountains. For more information on Ouray Colorado hotel specials, amenities, questions about hosting your special event, or hotel specials, please call 888-547-5962. You can also visit us at 110 7th Avenue.