PRESTON

NAME: Preston COUNTY: Lawrence ROADS: 2WD GRID: 1 CLIMATE: Snow in winter, cool spring/ fall, warm summers. BEST TIME TO VISIT: Anytime but winter, road poor in wet weather.

COMMENTS: Ask for directions and info at Lead prior to heading out. Not sure if anyone lives there, but is very nearpopular ski area (Terry Peak). REMAINS: Unknown

Balmoral, Dacy, Victoria, Cyanide, and Preston were towns grouped together and sprang up around 1897 to work the shallow gold ores in the vicinity of Ragged Top Mountain. Today, the area is known as Preston where there were several good mines including the big Spearfish Gold Mining and Milling Company and the Ulster, a mile north of town, which produced ore assaying $2,000 to the ton. There are several original buildings still standing including the Ragged Top School and a deserted three-story house. The Spearfish Mine produced 48,618 ounces of gold from 1899to 1906. The whole area is a fascinating one and well worth a visit. Submitted by Henry Chenoweth.

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