Near Virginia City in Storey County, Nevada — The American Mountains (Southwest)
The Yellow Jacket Mine Fire
Photographed By Matthew J Ebert, October 21, 2021
1. The Yellow Jacket Mine Fire Marker
Early in the morning of April 7, 1869, day shift miners were lowered into the depths of the inter connected Yellow Jacket, Crown Point and Kentuck mines. A fire at the 800' level, probably from a night shift miner's misplaced candle, collapsed the drift, trapping all below. All mine shafts were filled with hot, suffocating gases, fueled by powerful down-drafts. There were few successful rescues. At least 35 miners died, and many bodies were never retrieved. After three days the mines were sealed to extinguish the fire. The rock in these sections remained hot for three years! The tragic fire helped gain support for labor and funding of Adolf Sutro's tunnel.
Dedicated to those who perished, and the widows and orphans left behind.
Julia C. Bulette #1864 of the Ancient and Honorable Order of E Clampus Vitus
Dedicated June 26, 6026
Erected 2021 by E Clampus Vitus.
Topics and series. This historical marker is listed in this topic list: Industry & Commerce. In addition, it is included in the E Clampus Vitus series list. A significant historical date for this entry is April 7, 1869.
Location.
Photographed By Matthew J Ebert
2. The Yellow Jacket Mine Fire Marker
this page online
Other nearby markers. At least 8 other markers are within walking distance of this marker. I.O.O.F. Monument (within shouting distance of this marker); Silver Star Lodge # 5 (within shouting distance of this marker); Gold Hill Brewery (within shouting distance of this marker); Gold Hill Hotel (within shouting distance of this marker); Assay Office and Justice Court (within shouting distance of this marker); Maynard Block (about 300 feet away, measured in a direct line); Gold Hill Millionaires (about 600 feet away); Fort Homestead, Gold Hill, Nevada (about 700 feet away).
Photographed By Matthew J Ebert
3. The Yellow Jacket Mine Fire Marker
Credits. This page was last revised on October 22, 2021. It was originally submitted on October 21, 2021, by Matthew J Ebert of Gerlach, NV. This page has been viewed 342 times since then and 278 times this year. Photos: 1, 2. submitted on October 21, 2021, by Matthew J Ebert of Gerlach, NV. 3. submitted on October 22, 2021, by Matthew J Ebert of Gerlach, NV. • J. Makali Bruton was the editor who published this page.
