Crescent Valley in Eureka County, Nevada — The American Mountains (Southwest)

Cortez, Nevada

Photographed By Barry Swackhamer, August 6, 2019

1. Cortez, Nevada Marker

Inscription. Silver ore was discovered at Mount Tango in 1862 by a group of Mexican prospectors. They took the ore to Austin, Nevada. It was assayed. They were paid, and they were never heard from again.
In May of 1863 Simeon Wenban led a group to the Mount to investigate the find and discovered significant silver float in the Gulches. He developed mining operations which he controlled until his death in 1895. The population of Cortez road to 400 miners and woodcutters. 16 stamps were built. Several owners succeeded Wenban. In the 1930's the market fell. Small private claims continued.
Cortez was mostly a company town, but had saloons, brothels and stores.
In 1959 the American Exploration and Mining Co. took over the mining district for several years. It was purchased by Placer Amax Inc., who developed open pit and underground operations. Barrick Gold North America now operates the mine, and is the major employer in the area. Barrick Gold has committed itself to the preservation of the area of the old townsite.

Presented in the Memory Charley "IW" Harper

Erected 2011 by E Clampus Vitus, Lucinda Jane Saunders Chapter 1881.

Topics and series. This historical marker is listed in these topic lists: Industry & Commerce

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• Notable Places. In addition, it is included in the E Clampus Vitus series list. A significant historical month for this entry is May 1863.

Location. 40° 24.602′ N, 116° 34.827′ W. Marker is in Crescent Valley, Nevada, in Eureka County. Marker is at the intersection of 6th Str and Ruby Way, on the right when traveling east on 6th Str. Touch for map. Marker is at or near this postal address: 651 6th Street, Crescent Valley NV 89821, United States of America. Touch for directions.

Other nearby markers. At least 1 other marker is within 16 miles of this marker, measured as the crow flies. California Trail - 1841 Route (approx. 15.1 miles away).

Photographed By Barry Swackhamer, August 6, 2019

2. Cortez, Nevada Marker

Credits. This page was last revised on August 28, 2019. It was originally submitted on August 28, 2019, by Barry Swackhamer of Brentwood, California. This page has been viewed 304 times since then and 24 times this year. Photos: 1, 2. submitted on August 28, 2019, by Barry Swackhamer of Brentwood, California.