Argonaut Mine Tragedy of 1922 - Jackson, California

Jeff and Sarah visit the location of the famous Argonaut Mine in Amador County, scene of a tragedy in August, 1922 where miners were trapped. They will also visit the mass graves of the victims.
#argonautmine #minedisasters #jacksoncalifornia #historyhunters
Check out our two other videos on Jackson, California!
Stage Coach Driver Mike Tovey was Ambushed Here in 1893
• Stage Coach Driver Mik...
Gold Rush Era Buildings of Jackson, Calif.
• Gold Rush Era Building...

[@Jon-si4dl]

Thank you for this video. My great grandfather was Evan Ely one of the miners who perished that day when my grandmother was only a month old. In fact the picture you show is of her in her mother’s arms with her brothers and sister after that day. They recently commentated the 100 year anniversary in September and My family and I went to Jackson for that. It was quite an experience one I will never forget. Thank you again for the video it means so much to my family.

[@jbenziggy]

Wow that’s amazing that we showed your ancestors. Such a tragedy. I’m glad you appreciated this tribute to those lost.

[@happyraccoon4791]

Jackson Gate road is a nice drive with some nice buildings and history, waiting for you.

[@patrickgodman2429]

Many of the relatives of this disaster still live here and have amazing stories about their families and their own lives growing up in the mining operations of Amador county. Many of the graves in the cemetaries were overrun by fire and the wooden markers were lost. Local historian Cedric Clute interviewed and documented many facts and wrote an exceptional book about the Argonaut mine disaster. As the retired museum curator he still shares his passion for all of Amadors history. Robert Dalton was the husband and father of the Miwok family who started the Jackson Rancheria. His family still has a love of logging and support for their county. true natives. Another historicaj story untold.

[@churchofpos2279]

I have driven pass this so many times, but never stopped by. I am moving out of California in a few weeks. I have watched this State deteriorate over the past 5 years, and can't see it getting better. The good news is that I will be able to visit via your channel.

[@boomtownrat5106]

California has so many iconic landscapes. For me, the gold rush country, the sierra foothills, with its grassy hills and oak trees are the most representative. Just love Hwy 49!

[@jbenziggy]

It is certainly a gorgeous part of California! So full of history too!

[@pamelakern2849]

Loved your comment

[@nadiazahroon6573]

How could there be an “ unknown “ grave. Well that’s sad and heartbreaking. Thank you both.

[@jbenziggy]

Unknown in the sense that the grave had no marker and was unknown to me. Maybe the records have it written down somewhere.

[@kevinbanks6855]

You take the time to go and explore area's of History and video for people to see. Sad to see that the thoughtless Homeless would leave their trash. Sad to see where this country is going.

[@tedwalker1370]

Is it possible the homeless feel there country has let them down ? Why would they not trash there country?

[@1jyl22]

@@tedwalker1370oh, please.

[@liberalliar9216]

@@tedwalker1370 Slobbering pity party here!

[@sside8]

I didn't think you were disrespecting the homeless people. It was the trash and mess they left behind that was terrible.

[@klnkat6600]

@@HistoryHunterSarah Man is made of body, mind and spirit, so leaving that deep, invisble scar to a third of our being inevitably leads to behaviors that end up destroying our futures as we seek to comfort ourselves with sex, drugs and recklessness. Accepting that you are human with an innate need to know and interact with your Creator is the first step to full healing and a limitless future. Often, the events that led to the homeless came from spiritual wounds following childhood sexual abuse or abandonment that left soul scars. This post modern world denies that man is a spiritual being as well as a physical one, so therapists only treat half a person. Millions of people feel forced to turn to the somehow more socially acceptable lesser spirits that can only deal in limited past knowledge like spiritism, horoscopes, palm readers, ouija boards, psychics, wickens and other occultists in order to heal their inner lonliness and pain. These supernatural practitioner's knowledge comes with a hidden spiritual bondage that you unknowingly sign up to when you give them permission to enter your spirit. They give knowledge of our past that seems helpful at first, but inevitably lead to acts of self destruction as the attached spirits subtly lead us to more and more negative behaviors. No matter the pain in our hearts, minds or spirits - we have been provided a great Comforter who resides in each of us. His voice is quiet, you have to deliberately learn to hear Him, but once you do you will never feel alone again. If you can find a Charismatic church group nearby, one who participates with The Holy Spirit, they may be able to help free you from that traumatic memory's ability to control your future actions. This may be the best and most practical step we can take after recognizing that we need help to recover equilibrium. I pray The Lord sends the right person across your path to offer a map that can lead to freedom from your past suffering. It is possible, as I can attest from personal recovery from great trauma myself. Blessings

[@robertwolfe2971]

Back then you root hog or die.A Karen like you would be dead right now.

[@michaelgmoore5708]

The history never taught in schools Is what we live in. History Hunters is one of the best programs ever. Grave history programs like this one should replace all the trash that people waste on to learn nothing. Keep it up and maybe a lot of people will realize how lucky they are to be living today without such hardship.

[@leahreposa4599]

This had to be the saddest one you've done yet. All the years I've lived up here in the foothills and never knew this story. Sarah- kudos for the respect comment.

[@danellekewish4433]

Thank you Jeff and Sarah for climbing all around the Argonaught Mine (so I don't have to), I've always wondered about it as I pass by. I feel it's important to mention just as people back then lived thru hardship so are people today, as is evidence of the homeless camp. I was pleased to hear Sarah comment "they are people too". Expressing disgust upon seeing evidence of the homeless is not a "good look". Compassion is. I look forward to more of your videos of the Mother Lode as I've lived up here the past 40 years. Thank You for what you guys do!

[@jbenziggy]

Thanks for the very thoughtful comments! Please stick with us even if we visit other areas!

[@arizonaalchemy7572]

@@jbenziggy Great Vlog, enjoyed the History. Sad to say the Homeless population is growing. I understand everyone's frustration with the mess. Lost my home of 27 years due to Tripled Rents. Thank You, Sarah for your thoughtful comment. However, as a Homeless person for the last two years. There is no reason to leave the garbage around. Wherever I sleep at night, I leave the area as I found it. Clean... :)

[@RhettyforHistory]

Is that giant hole a sinkhole from the mines? It's neat to see the remnants of these old mines. Sad to see the trash people have left before you got to the gallows. Mining is so dangerous. It's sad and eerie to thing about the last messages written by the miners. It's nice to see the graves as well. Thanks for giving us a tour.

[@jbenziggy]

I am really not sure what that hole was. And I have to say I was not surprised to see a homeless camp right on the edge of a historical landmark. There seems to be no area of California that isn’t touched by the homeless problem, which in my estimation is all rooted in drug abuse or mental illness. California needs to get a handle on the problem because it’s not getting any better. I cannot fathom what the families of those minors must’ve gone through, the roller coaster of emotions, holding on to hope when little hope was available. Thank you so much for watching and I look forward to your next video, Rhett!

[@eye_man]

@History Hunters the hole was probably a temporary tailings pond. It looks like there was a little concrete "dam"

[@rhondaz356]

This was very interesting, even though it is so tragic. The risky business that job entailed can not be forgotten. No plans for such events... 🙏🏼Thank you so much, Jeff and Sarah. These brave people deserve to be recognized and remembered.💔🙏🏼

[@MrBuckdun]

Jeff, impressive video! Have driven by that site many times, had no idea what was there! I’m absolutely enthralled with the mother lode and all the history that goes with it! When I was young and dumb decided to go into a mine in southern Nevada, went in a couple hundred feet, pitch black, if battery would have died, I don’t know? Well once again thank you for the adventure Jeff and Sarah! Tom in Ceres

[@nickbakker6963]

Imagine the helpless feelings those folks on the surface experienced... unable to do anything those poor souls underground. It puts me in mind of what I believe was a cave-in mining disaster at Cerro Gordo. How tragic. Thanks so much Jeff and Sarah! Looking very forward to where you two will take us next! Stay safe!

[@jbenziggy]

Thanks Nick!!!

[@larrymiller8210]

You have some of the most interesting topics. I watch History Channel alot. I'm surprised they have not contacted you. With a crew you could put out some awesome programs. Yea, that's what you need, more work and stress. You have the voice and the talent. Thanks again for a really neat tour, awesome!

[@jbenziggy]

I really appreciate your fine compliments. I think there’s zero to little chance that history channel would ever contact me because there are so many people doing this type of genre on KZbin.

[@travelindave]

A video in the middle of the week. What an awesome treat. Very tragic and sad story. Thanks for sharing Jeff.

[@jbenziggy]

Yep! Surprised?

[@sharylcherwa7369]

This was so sad It made me cry . Jeff you have a Real Gift in Delivering your Stories. A Mixture of Facts, Music inserted at just the Right Spot. This is So Profesional. By Far the Best Vlogger that I've watched. Thanks for Always Bringing the Personal Element into the Story, About how it Affected the Town. I Really Enjoy Watching your Shows. They are as Profesional as they get!! Thank you.

[@bayareableepers]

Why do you capitalize every word?

[@bikemannc]

@@bayareableepers if this is all you got out of her comment then you deserve to be ignored

[@bayareableepers]

@@bikemannc To make this kind of grammatical error is such a disservice to the written language that it becomes extraordinarily difficult to see anything beyond it. But you're funny to think I was "ignored".

[@bikemannc]

@@bayareableepers It is interesting to observe your comment on her comment of what's grammatically correct. Then you're last sentence was also ' grammatically' incorrect as it was not a sentence but a vague phrase started with a ..."Then". Uhmm, your use of double standards in a casual commenting section is interesting. As for being ignored, it is just a matter of degrees you are open to understand.

[@bayareableepers]

@@bikemannc I have no idea where you think I was supposed to add a "Then" to my sentence. And for YOUR future reference, it's YOUR not YOU'RE. Don't fight with me over grammar unless you can get yours right.

[@suzettecalleja3122]

The history you teach us should be taught to the kids in California and in other states, but more in California. such rich history. Love your channel.

[@jbenziggy]

Great to hear! Thank you!

[@brucekmules]

Thank you Jeff, for creating these videos of our town, Jackson. There will be a centennial remembrance of the argonaut tragedy coming up this September. Kennedy mine just had an open house last weekend and is interesting to showcase as well. The tailing wheels of the Kennedy are incredible. Jackson Gate Road community also has an amazing history. The Serbian Church and cemeteries. So much history! Thanks again. My husband and I really enjoy watching all of your videos. The detail and history you provide in each is wonderful. We have learned so much from each of them.

[@jbenziggy]

You're welcome! Thanks so much for watching this episode!

[@bcoldgoalie]

Work conditions left a lot to be desired,a hundred years ago. Very nicely done telling of a sad historical event. 👏

[@jbenziggy]

You are so right, Hans. Thanks for watching and for the thoughtful comment!

[@bobblackwellpcs]

Been there. Very moving. Stanislaus State used to have a tour of the mother lode country. You checked out a tape and binder full of information and went from place to place. This was 35 years ago. The story of the fire was one of the stops along the way.

[@HollywoodGraham]

A very dangerous and hard life to live for miners in those days especially. so much history in that area you will never run out of subjects. Thanks for all fine photoing and research.

[@katieaguirre3001]

Hi Jeff, thankyou for your touching video honoring the lives of the 47 miners who died in the Argonaut mine disaster on August 27th, 1922. I live in Amador County and wrote a song about the disaster more than 16 years ago. It was an honor to play and sing the song at the 100 year Commemeration. God bless the men, their families and those who remember them. Katie Aguirre

[@DovieRuthAuthor]

I was pleasantly surprised to hear from you on a Wednesday! Terrific episode. I watched it three times to absorb all the details.

[@johnb.carpenter6862]

Great episode! Very interesting and sad at the same time. The area around the mine and the conveyor structure should be cleaned up and a proper memorial set in place. It’s a shame about the trash but Sarah is right about the people who left the trash. It’s sad that people are homeless. It’s all in how you look at things. We all need to have compassion . ♥️ Sarah.

[@dafyddr8678]

What an amazing mid-week episode... tragic story yet brilliantly delivered.

[@jbenziggy]

Thanks for watching!

[@jimbullard441]

Another amazing story. Jeff...you are a great storyteller.

[@jbenziggy]

Thanks Jim!

[@bossladys6461]

I didn't realize the mine pits went so deep very sad ending and very dangerous job. I liked the video and the homeless camp was sad to see and I agree my sister who lives just outside of burbank keeps telling me how bad the homeless problems are. Sarah I like the lighter shade to your hair just had to say it and Jeff you better invest in an air tag to keep up with Sarah I had to lol when you said I can't find her lol and remember "not everyone who wanders is lost" she just likes to roam

[@bobby-io2rr]

I really like that town It's just a shame the homeless have to do what they do. I have been homeless but would never act that way

[@danpatch4751]

Like you said in one of your comments, men were desperate and worked for cash. I worked in mining in northern Minnesota recently but is all open pit above ground for the most part. I did some dangerous work going down in 2 man cages for cleanup. Back then for the people featured in your video, really not much for safety. Today the mines have there own safety organization separate from osha regulations. Very interesting video, just be careful of some of the areas you go into. Some people carry bear spray. Thanks for sharing.

[@michelleserrano6115]

Another great episode...I have been across country a couple of times. Seen a lot of different states..All are beautiful in different ways..California is by far is the most beautiful..Too bad it's being taken over by homeless encampments...So sad..

[@almeggs3247]

So glad someone keeps history alive and most importantly these tragedies that deserve our our continued 🙏🏻God Bless you! And please Keep these going for US!

[@genewest8426]

I really appreciate you two and the California history, born here and so much I didn't know

[@frankcasey7423]

Awesome video guy’s, that is one deep mine! Such a tragedy to lose all those miners at once, especially the father and son. It was nice to hear how the whole town, community and surrounding neighbors came together to try and help and to comfort those who were affected by the tragedy. I see how those people left that hillside where the mine is located a mess with trash and debris everywhere. We have the same problems here too in Philadelphia, especially in the Kensington section of north Philadelphia. It’s out of control! Thank you for a great and interesting video again, I thoroughly enjoyed it and I look forward to the next one. Take care now! Frank from Philadelphia, PA.

[@banjonichols3063]

My dad worked at the Sunshine Mine...He just switched to the afternoon shift...He lost his crew in this fire. In the morning of May 2, 1972, a fire broke out in the Sunshine Mine. According to the US Mine Rescue Association, 91 workers died from smoke inhalation or carbon monoxide poisoning; 83 men were rescued, 81 on May 2 and two on May 9. The mine was closed for seven months after the fire, which was one of the worst mining disasters in American history and is the worst disaster in Idaho's history. - Wikipedia

[@marceyvogt2007]

So sad. So many young men gone. Also, the homeless camp is sad too. Thank you Jeff and Sarah. ☮️💖🎶

[@jbenziggy]

You’re very welcome, Marcey! Thanks for watching!

[@three6ohchris]

What another great video, Jeff and Sarah. So much amazing and tragic history, but it deserves to be told so that younger generations never forget the hard work and sacrifices that people went through not so long ago, in order to survive and raise a family. As far as the mess left behind by the homeless... It's easy to say "be respectful," (no disrespect, Sarah, I understand why you would say that) but when you can clearly see that they were incredibly disrespectful to the history of the area and tragedy that happened there, it's really difficult to have sympathy or respect for people that are responsible for it. There are plenty of homeless folks who are nowhere near as destructive and messy. It's a shame to see so many areas being destroyed one by one due to stuff like this. The Portland and Seattle areas are seeing stuff like this, if not worse. Something needs to be done that's for sure, but the politicians in office in these areas clearly don't care as it doesn't put money in their pockets to do anything about it. Anyhow, thank you so much for another great video, you too. Looking forward to the next one already! 🙂

[@k.m.slattery6263]

Thank you Jeff and Sarah. The sight of the historic and fascinating mine ruins is really great to see. - It seems that Jackson was one of the few places where gold mining went uninterrupted for 60 years. I don’t know what that means about the geology there but l think it would be great to learn more about it. -Thanks again and l offer my regards to the miners who lost their lives. ❤️

[@sherrywyllie2163]

I used to go to Kennedy mine with my parents often. My Dad photographed the Kennedy Wheels quite a bit also. We never went to the Argonaught mine however. My father was a CHP officer Stockton and he sheltered his girls from tragedy like that. So many of our day trips were Jackson, Murphys, Columbia, Sonora and any gold country adventures. Thank you for the lesson in history I missed.

[@jbenziggy]

My dad used to take us kids on drives up there and we kind of complained! I am so glad he did that!

[@dmzabo3914]

You two have a great KZbin channel. I always enjoy whatever you present to us the viewing public. Nothing like AMERICAN history and I always enjoy the history lesson from your point of view. Thanks for doing that field research on our nations impressive historical moments.

[@jbenziggy]

Thanks so much! 👍🏼👍🏼👍🏼

[@fountainbiker]

Wow, may all the miners rest in peace. Thank you for sharing another piece of CA history.

[@jbenziggy]

God bless those men and families Jerry!

[@eddiew3521]

Jeff, I so very much appreciate your work and channel. I wish you and Sarah continued good health.

[@jbenziggy]

Thank you very much, Eddie!

[@lisaburns2117]

Great episode Jeff and Sarah! It’s nice to honor those who died from such a tragedy. You are so respectful of their memory. Love those old cemeteries.

[@Ravelinn]

Beautiful and Respectful , as Always... Thank you for sharing this

[@melissajensen3166]

Great video Jeff. I’ve been up to both mines. Sad to see all the garbage left by the homeless people. Too bad Cali doesn’t work to help them. But, a lot of them don’t want help! Keep up the great work.

[@jbenziggy]

Thank you Melissa! That mess really stunned me! Someone said the homeless are coming up the foothills from the valley. Does not surprise me though.

[@Xpyburnt_ndz]

Gr8 vid Jeff & Sarah!!! I agree with your thoughts on the "campers"...I'll show them respect when they show respect for the land they occupy. I feel for them in that it's come to that for them, but many of them like living like that! Absolutely no reason to leave it like that. When I'm out at the local lakes with my family, we take along hefty trash bags just to clean up all the "crap" left behind by others at the water and dispose of it properly...really chaps my hide, but the only way to be rid of it is to get rid of it myself...really disappoints me that these "people" are so care less.

[@calken546]

In August 2010, 33 miners were trapped underground in Copiapó. After two weeks communication was made with them but it was said at least four more months would pass before they could be rescued, though essential services could still be provided.

[@jananderson672]

How often do you feel an eerie feeling when you're on property where a tragedy occurred? I'm sure some restless souls hang around places like that. Glad Sarah wasn't too hurt on your tour of mines.

[@jbenziggy]

It only felt eerie knowing that's where they last entered the mine, not because of anything ghostly or spirit realm.

[@jananderson672]

@@jbenziggy That's what I thought and it's my feeling too. Keep up your quality videos.

[@ladysylvia4018]

Years ago I visited the mine disaster areas and left flowers on the markers. I miss visiting Amador county!

[@giannavlogs6009]

I have been binge watching your and Sarah’s videos and enjoying them so much. I don’t think I have visited the Argonaut Mine Site since the early 90s. It’s a shame to see that homeless encampment scattered across such a historic area. Sadly, we’re seeing a lot of that in Nevada now too. Thank you so much for your thorough narration and history of this site, as well as your focus on Italian immigrants in the area. As I mentioned before, the Gold Country holds a special place in my heart. Your videos, narration, drone footage, and historical storytelling are top notch.

[@jbenziggy]

Thank you so much for the generous comments! We try to do our best. As far as homelessness goes, we have to get a handle on why people want to drug themselves to the point of uselessness.

[@pamelakern2849]

California is packed full of history. This definitely was a tragic peice of California history. I always enjoy your videos 🤩🤩

[@joehiker5573]

Thank you Jeff for your efforts! This series is wonderful! The city should bring the prisoners out to do all the clean-up of the mine site !!!

[@normahird9059]

Another superb vlog. The two of you put so much effort and information into the videos you make for your viewers. Although the outcome of this mine disaster was a sad one the two of you have shown respect to the memory of the victims in this video. Thank you

[@jbenziggy]

Thank you, Norma!

[@concerned1313]

Thank you. I have driven thru Jackson over a dozen times on my way to Pine Grove and Indian Grinding Rock. I did not know about the mines or the tragedy. I also did not know that gold mines in CA went to that depth! I will have to visit next time I roll thru that area...

[@OpieDogie]

Very interesting. Those old miners were tough. When I worked underground we had machinery that made our work much easier. When you realize that the old timers did much of their work manually it boggles the mind. I really have come to respect those who came before us. In the days of the 49ers, they had steel drill bits that one would hold and twist as the other used a 16 lbs double jack to slug the end of it. Imagine swinging a 16 lbs hammer all day long. When this mine tragedy happened, they probably were still using some steam engines and electricity for lighting. When I was mining, we had huge pumps that pumped fresh air into the fresh air shaft. We were trained on CPR/first aid, fire fighting skills and equipment (as big as 6.5 yard bucket front end loaders) was lowered down the service shaft. They were just getting huge machines called “jumbos” that had drilling motors all over it to drill large amounts of holes to be loaded with powder. These guys in this were probably using “jacklegs”

[@deannaharby5677]

Thank you for your attention to detail and the drone footage.

[@jupite1888]

Always Great History off the beaten track and a Great Promoter of your State and Country, Well done Jeff and Sarah

[@californiasun5866]

Thanks for presenting the history of the Kennedy and Argonaut mines. I was born and raised in Sacramento and we went through Jackson many many times. I remember hearing the Kennedy mine being mentioned a lot. And I think I remember hearing the name Argonaut. But I do not remember ever hearing of the mine disaster. Everytime I hear of such disaster it makes me wonder why anyone would let themselves be threatened by such danger. But I did notice mention that the mine owners may have been cutting corners, thus the mine may not have been run with safety of the men in mind. You should know about the Tailing Wheels that were used for the Kennedy mine. One had fallen as I became an adult. I have photos of them. But later I heard the other tailing wheel had fallen as well. So I don't know what you might find about them. It would be another worthwhile project if they could be rebuilt.

[@georgerobinson349]

Jeff and Sarah, really enjoyed this episode along with the current homeless commentary.

[@vonwebber7852]

Hi Jeff and Sarah! Thank you for making our snowy day brighter (High 23, will not tell you what our low will be haha) with a Wednesday video! What a ride it must have been down to those lower levels to start your work.

[@artgarner5708]

Somber history worth remembrance. thanks for the midweek treat !

[@corevette]

You’ve really been pumping out the videos the last few days. Thank you‼️👏🏻👏🏻

[@jbenziggy]

And another good one coming out this Sunday!

[@shakesalegsometimes9575]

Thank you, Sarah

[@maureengill6031]

Nice tribute to the victims of the Argonaut Mine Tragedy. The graves are so unique and so old! There’s so much history to be gleaned from them. Thank you for walking through the graves for us. I’m a bit wary of walking through cemeteries by myself. Thanks to you and Sarah, I don’t have to. Take care. 🙏

[@jbenziggy]

We saved you a lot of breathless climbing! LOL! Thanks for being a fan!

[@greghodgen6902]

b Sarah likes to wander off, but usually draws your attention to something interesting. Thank you 2 for bringing all this history to the unaware,such as myself.

[@Barnehy1]

Thank you Jeff and Sarah, a very interesting trip into history. I had never heard of this tragedy before seeing this video.

[@theodoredugranrut8201]

Surprise, Surprise History hunters today. Thanks Jeff very tragic mine disaster. We do so enjoy your hard work at researching the background on these people. As for the homeless, there is no guarantee where we will be this time next year. Central California Watching

[@bradfordbarrettluckotheIrish]

Another sad tale of such a dangerous job. Well done vlog covering that tragedy.

[@debsmith1956]

I am surprised 2 episodes in 1 week. Great job...

[@brianmcginty5837]

I love California history, having been born there and spent many years living there. Your insights into interesting events and places in California history are fascinating, and every well presented.

[@jbenziggy]

That’s very nice of you to say, Brian!

[@ahbenjamin2889]

Jeff and Sarah thank you so much for a well presented documentary. As soon as I make it down to Modesto, I am cataloging all the places I will want to visit on day trips. Thank you so much for doing the research for me.

[@moesan2u1]

Another Great show Jeff and Sarah, I'm sorry people are homeless, but they should show this Great Land some respect and clean up after themselves, let's hope someone in Sacramento watched your show and works on getting some money sent to Jackson to cover cleaning cost., but there I go expecting the Government to do something...Ok off my soap box. Thank you again for all your Great work:)

[@WyomingTraveler]

Thanks for another historical visit even if it was a sad event that you were recording. I enjoyed seeing the video in contrast with the pictures of what the mind structures look like at the time they were in operation. The area of California along Highway 49 is both historic and scenic. I traveled along a large portion of that road back in 1969. I would like to do it again someday if possible.

[@ronthorp2844]

God bless the 47 and their families! Jeff and Sarah thanks for another outstanding video!!!

[@jbenziggy]

We appreciate the support, Ron!

[@dsinavich5141]

Hi ! Very interesting , but sad at the same time . I get claustaphobic just watching my screen of the mine . Mining was very dangerous back in the day . The miners graves was so sad to see . At least they died together they were buried together for eternity . Thanks for all your great vlogs! Take care . Deb Manitoba Canada

[@bobbauer2287]

Very interesting story ! Great job all around as always ! Sunday and Wednesday videos ! I will share this . Thanks ! Bob

[@jbenziggy]

Thank you very much and we will have another great video on Sunday so don’t miss it!

[@webchuck1]

Hello History Hunters Jeff and Sarah, Thanks for sharing a sad and ending story of these miner's may they Rest in Peace 🙏

[@patriciaschindler6468]

What a fantastic episode. Long time viewers. Loved your informative program. Bravo

[@jbenziggy]

Much appreciated, Patricia!

[@swann548]

Great in depth video ! There was a lot of sorrow in town that day ! I don’t know if portable oxygen was invented yet in 1922 🥰

[@waynelamkin6570]

I really enjoy all of Jeff’s you tubes so I hope everyone will support him

[@jbenziggy]

Thanks Wayne! 👍🏼

[@meljohnson5926]

Very sad. Thanks for sharing.

[@lindsaymacpherson8782]

Sad but really great bit of history there Was amazed how much is still standing and Sarah was right the homeless are people just sad they left such a mess Great video Jeff and Sarah Thankyou

[@privatepilot4064]

It’s sad, but history we need to hear. May they all R.I.P. Thank you Jeff and Sarah!

[@msoden4920]

Another great job, Jeff and Sarah! Very interesting and informative!!

[@robertbiastre6037]

You respect those who perished, unlike the mine bosses who did not care! Thanks Jeff.

[@jeffblack3971]

Great video. I've been where you started this videoi would love to be able to get to the argonaut mine but being in a wheelchair itsalmost impossible to get there

[@jbenziggy]

Sorry to hear that you can't get to some places but it was even partially fenced off so they don't want people going in there anyway for safety reasons.

[@frankmarullo228]

Jeff, Sarah this was a really good video I love how you put together your video's the only thing I don't like is all the crap ( notice I kept it clean ) they leave behind. This reminds me of the Smith mine disaster in montana in 1942 I think there were about 70 or so people killed in that one... Thank you both for another good one. FRANK from montana... PS if you know anything about Smith mine disaster. Please let me know....

[@GrizzlyTank]

I live across the street from this cemetery and can see my house in many of the shots. I was almost expecting to see myself walking my dog in the background. I love reading the tombstones, such rich history in this town. I moved here from SF about a year before this was filmed and was surprised the homeless situation is not much better than it was back in the Bay Area. My first time waking through the cemetery I came across a pile of stolen mail, empty alcohol bottles, and used heroin needles. I try to keep the area clean as much as possible so when I walk my dog on the trails I often pick up lots of trash. A lot of homeless encampments pop up around the perimeter of the cemetery because there’s lots of little alcoves to hide in. They light bonfires at night to keep warm which is sad but also pretty frustrating because there are tons of wildfires in this part of the state.

[@cprendon3]

Excellent as always. Hopefully you visited the Kennedy Mine and the giant tailing wheels (well only one left standing now) across the street too. I spent my life traipsing around and researching the old mines in the Mother Lode. East of Dry Town and Amador City is full of them and the Rancheria Massacre mass grave. These mines are some of the best preserved because they was still in operation well into the 1900s, while most others were abandoned in the late 1800s.

[@jbenziggy]

We did not get over to the Kennedy mine on this trip however lots of people have done videos on the Kennedy mine. Nobody has done one on the Argonaut.

[@victoriawait5153]

Awesome Adventures had once again, with Our "History Hunters"... thanx 😊😀

[@Porsche996driver]

Nice one Jeff. I’ve been up there several times but never knew the full history. Thanks. 🙏🏼💙

[@jbenziggy]

Glad you learned something new from our video!

[@ronswim8187]

Pass though Jackson several times, want to stop but didn’t have the time, now seeing your video I want to explore the town even more! Will make time this year to do it!

[@jbenziggy]

Enjoy it when you do! It’s a cute little town!

[@ronswim8187]

@@jbenziggy thank you! Always enjoy your videos!

[@fridgeratorsam4042]

Thanks for the midweek treat. Love all the history in the foothill area along Hwy 49.

[@PatsPaperCrafts]

Thank you for sharing, I was not aware of this tragedy. We will definitely stop by in a future visit soon. Horrified with all the litter 😕

[@brentwilde9843]

Great episode Jeff great great channel you have going 👍thank you so much for your time and excellent research.

[@jbenziggy]

Thank you Brent! Your nice words are a bonus to our effort!

[@terrydevries914]

What a tragic story. Those poor miners. How many women were left widows and how many children were left fatherless. I think Jackson/Amador County could do better in honoring these miners and preserving this tragic site. Jackson could also do better about cleaning up that homeless mess on this historic site😩😩😩

[@marylouruss1087]

Thaanks much for the history. My family were coal miners husband retired from mines and son works in one. I was always afraid of the methane and the weather could make things happen in the mines.

[@samo8204]

Another great episode! As a born and raised Californian (now living in FL) I really appreciate the history. It makes me sad when I see what the homeless are doing to the state. Unfortunately, I don't have the answers.

[@jbenziggy]

Thank you so much, Sam. We didn't have this degree of homelessness when I was a kid growing up in California. So that leads me to believe most of it is mostly drug related. Once you are hooked on drugs and your mind and ambition is destroyed all you can do is live like a bum. I think the state needs to do something radical, like create camps where drug rehab is mandatory. We used to lock up people for vagrancy and now it's almost encouraged.

[@samo8204]

@@jbenziggy it's very simple actually. I.M.O. most of this started when the government stepped in with all the free sugar honey iced tea. You've seen the signs at national parks, "Don't feed the bears"... Why? Because they become dependant and can no longer fend for themselves. Sad but true story.

[@brianbuswell6112]

Living in the gold country my entire life and exploring much of it , I could imagine early California looked similar to the homeless camp . Most miners only took there trash a few yards from there tents or cabins and dumped it out . Kinda like you mentioned about the bottles . I do wish the homeless would clean up tho it's an eye sore .