The kids and I went to Reed Gold Mine in Midland, NC today. Th just finished up a unit on the westward expansion, including the discovery of gold in California in 1849. I thought this field trip would be a fun way to end the unit. We looked at the exhibits, toured the mine, and panned for gold. It was so much fun, and a great learning experience! He was excited to find gold but as he shared with TJ, we "can't sell our house to become gold miners." I'd say he learned first-hand how labor intensive mining truly is, especially for such little pay-off. =)
The mine entrance:
Just inside the entrance:
50 feet underground, looking up a shaft:
The mine shaft from the outside:
T.G. watching the mill in operation. It was loud, but the noise didn't seem to bother her!
Th panning for gold:
T.G. panning for gold:
This verse ties in nicely to today's field trip and is a good reminder for us all: "but lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust destroys and where thieves do not break in and steal." ~Matthew 6:20.
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