Two weeks ago (Sept. 6, 2010) I drove to Silverton to investigate a mining claim for sale. The claim is located at 10,700 to 11,300 feet. Part is above timberline and part below. This shot shows the outcropping of granite that covers the side of the mountain. I found various seams of quartz with clear and milky bands ten to twelve inches thick running through the quartz in lines one hundred or more feet across these exposed veins.

I was able to collect a five gallon bucket of great looking gold ore which I will have analyzed soon. I stayed onsite for two days and investigated the surrounding claims and abandoned shafts. Next visit will be with a Gold Bug II on my arm.

And a 9 mm on my belt. The bear scat was ever present and the berries were in abundant supply.

Fore armed is forewarned.

Lee painted this mural in West Grand Junction of himself painting a mural of his wife painting a landscape. Typical of Bowerman's work he twists reality to his perception. I love the shadow of the ladder painted into the painting. Lee gets better all the time.