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The most complete guide to Southern Nevada's mining history.


Kewanee Mine.  Ivanpah, California.

35°20'52.00"N  115°29'10.27"W
USGS Full Report

Primary mining:  Gold
Secondary mining:  Zinc, Copper, Silver

Kewanee Mine is located Southwest of of Las Vegas, Nevada.  Nearest town is Mountain Pass, California.  Primary mining in the area included:  Gold, Silver, Copper, and Zinc.

Almost all of the mines in the Southern Ivanpah district have been sealed and sadly, this is one of them.  Despite the closure, it's still worth a look if you're already in the area.  For you rock collectors, the tailings are full of what I believe to be dolomite and quartzite.  I don't believe any of it is of value, but there are some good sized crystals in the piles. This mine is within the Mojave Preserve and I'm not sure of the legalities of collecting rock samples. Do so at your own risk.

Structurally, this mine appears to be double sealed.  In addition to the obvious bat gate cap, the lower shaft has collapsed.  Considering all mines in the general area have collapsed shafts, it's very likely it was done intentionally.   I've seen pictures taken around 2009-2010 of this area and it seems the bat gate caps are a fairly recent addition.  Do not remove or alter mine safety barriers or devices.