The teller. [volume] (Lewiston, North Idaho) 1876-1878, 1876-11-18
A HISTORY OF THE CAMP
eri CREEK MINES. 9toFf

.e," CREEK MINES. 9toff ri
The reported richness of the Camp Creek
silver mines has created 90 much excite
ment and aroused the curiosity to such an
extent, consequent on the contesting par
ties who are contending for the property
that little history Of the discovery may be
Of general interest. The mines are situated
on Camp Creek, tributary Of Crooked
river in Waseo county, distant about 800
miles from Albany and 100 miles from The
Dalles, surrounded by elegant ranches and
in the midst Of the most luxuriant grazing
country in the world where bunch grass
abounds and stock rsvels in the richest
pastures. Some four weeks ago Msssrs.
White, Ross and . negro, all of East Port
land, were on cattle hunting expedition
in tho county just named, when their at
tention was attracted by the appearance of
number OF boiling springs. They re-
manned for some time examining them and
remarked upon the soapy supstancss that
exudsd from their SUBMITS. Finally Ross
picked up piece Of quartz and remarked
tlat II bore striking resemblance to the
argentiferous rock in the White Pine dis
trict. They agreed to bring some with
them to Portland and have it assaysd. On
their return they related their adventure to
Mr.. AcCann and he as matter Of course
told others. The assay was richer than
their widest dreams had imagined and in
creased the excitement already existing.
The original discoverers started on their
return to tho mines to pre-empt their claims,
but the party to whom AcCann recounted
the discovery determined to reach the goal
ahead, if possible, as 'possession 10 nine
points Of law" They took the Albany
train and on their arrival, hired the fastest
horses they could find, changing them
when tired out for fresh animals. As may
be imagined horse flesh wasn't regarded
worth much which contrasted with the end
IN view. Suffice it to say they arrived in
advance, located and recorded their claims
and felt we'll pleased at the success Of their
trip. In tho course Of time White, Ross
and his friends reached the scene and by
virtue of their right - discoverers drove
on the ncCann party by threats and the
free display Of arms. They then organized
mining precinct elected Mr.. Cunningham
OF East Portland recorder, stalk ed off and
recorded 1880 feet Of tho lead on which
are situated Ave OF these boiling springs,
and are determined to hold it at any and
every cost. A thsre are two sides to ev-
cry story, it is but Justice to give the other.
The MsCann claimants say that the discov-
erers had no idea Of the value Of the
springs and the knowledge Of the matter
contained therein, and it was elucidated in
this wise. The negro seeing the soapy ap-
pearance Of this substance issuing from the
springs to test it a. a laver. He washed
his handkerchief with it and the result an
s~ered his expectation. He filled some
yeast powder cans with the material and
on his arrival at the Dalles had one Of them
stolen. The parties taking it mixed it
with borax ~ q Stag and subjected it to in
tense heat, which produced small globules
Of tho purest silver. The discovery caused
the rush, excitement and contortion " hich
have since taken place.
The vicinity is evidently rich, but thus
far no we'll defined ledge has been struck.
The hill is covered with argentiferous
black quartz mixed with sulphates and
chlorides Of silver imparting indications Of
the greatest richness. The lode is in the
range on which is situated tho one that
was bonded to Mr.. Sam. Parrish, and the
rock partakes Of the same character. The
region Of the discovery is most favorable
that could be found, as it affords every fa-
cility for the cheap working of the mine.
Mr.. Ross and Sorr and the negro left this
morning for their claim-prepared to de-
fsnd their interests should such course
be considered necessary. The probabilities
are very favorable as both parties are large,
we'll armed and equally determined to
maintain possession. We should not at
any time be surprised to hear of blood be-
ing shed. We would counsel peaceful
compromise and amicable adjustment Of
the unpleasant affair. if at all possible, be-
fore either party proceeds to extremities.-
Portland Standard.
BEN. RuflNr IN NAVUsm2nnl.s