Hey there, fellow gold enthusiasts, Terry here again! Today, we’re taking a trip back in time to revisit some of the biggest gold finds in Yukon history. Grab your pickaxe and let’s dig in!
1. The Discovery Claim
Our first stop is Bonanza Creek, formerly known as Rabbit Creek, where it all started in 1896. This is where George Carmack, Dawson Charlie, and Skookum Jim found gold nuggets while fishing, kicking off the legendary Klondike Gold Rush. The claim they staked became known as the Discovery Claim. This site, now a National Historic Site, yielded over 25,000 ounces of gold in the first year alone.
Source: Klondike Visitors Association
2. King Solomon’s Dome
One of the earliest and most persistent legends in the Yukon gold lore is King Solomon’s Dome. This rounded hill visible from Dawson City has been associated with stories of immense gold deposits since the gold rush days. Although the hill itself has not yielded any notable gold finds, it is considered the source of the gold found in the creeks below.
3. The Irishman’s Find
In 1989, an amateur prospector and mechanic named Normandy Peever, also known as “The Irishman,” discovered a gold nugget weighing over 72 ounces in the Fortymile mining district. This was one of the largest gold nuggets found in the Yukon in the 20th century.
4. The White Gold District
In 2009, prospector Shawn Ryan discovered significant gold deposits in the White Gold District, leading to a modern-day gold rush. Ryan’s findings have led to several commercial mining operations in the area that continue to unearth substantial quantities of gold.
Source: Yukon Gold Mining Alliance
Yukon’s history is rich with tales of monumental gold finds, and who knows—you could be the next person to strike it big! If these stories of success have you itching to start your gold prospecting journey, remember to always respect the land, the laws, and the rights of others. Happy hunting!