Near Murphy in Owyhee County, Idaho — The American West (Mountains)

Diamond Gulch

Photographed By Barry Swackhamer, June 26, 2017

1. Diamond Gulch Marker

Inscription. In December, 1865, Idaho's Governor -- Caleb Lyon of Lyonsdale -- set off a wild rush to Diamond Gulch, visible a few miles west of here, with as story that was to good to be true.
He told miners in Silver City that a prospector had given him some priceless diamonds from that area. Enough gems of interest to rockhounds were found there to maintain a diamond frenzy that winter. A similar excitement followed in 1892, but no actual diamonds ever were recovered in Diamond Gulch.

Erected by Idaho Department of Transportation. (Marker Number 454.)

Topics and series. This historical marker is listed in this topic list: Natural Resources. In addition, it is included in the Idaho State Historical Society series list. A significant historical month for this entry is December 1865.

Location. 43° 9.516′ N, 116° 30.528′ W. Marker is near Murphy, Idaho, in Owyhee County. Marker is at the intersection of Marsing Murphy Road (State Highway 78) and Silver City Road, on the left when traveling west on Marsing Murphy Road. Touch for map. Marker is in this post office area: Murphy ID 83650, United States of America. Touch for directions.

Other nearby markers. At least 6 other markers are within 14 miles of this marker, measured as the crow flies. War Eagle Mines (a few steps from this marker); The Murphy School House District 14

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(approx. 4½ miles away); a different marker also named The Murphy School House District 14 (approx. 4½ miles away); The Otter Massacre (approx. 4.6 miles away); Guffey Bridge Snake River Idaho (approx. 9.8 miles away); Steamer "Shoshone" (approx. 13½ miles away).

Additional keywords. hoax

Photographed By Barry Swackhamer, June 26, 2017

2. Diamond Gulch Marker

This marker is on the right.

Credits. This page was last revised on November 17, 2017. It was originally submitted on November 17, 2017, by Barry Swackhamer of Brentwood, California. This page has been viewed 450 times since then and 39 times this year. Photos: 1, 2. submitted on November 17, 2017, by Barry Swackhamer of Brentwood, California.