Mojave Desert Photography- Scenes on the way to the Bismarck Mine..

1/100 sec. @ f.14.

Bismarck Mine...

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More about those tin cans...

It is believed that "Tin Can Alley" was the refuse dump used by the Pacific Coast Borax Co., which operated here from 1888 to 1907.

In Search Of The Bismarck Mine..

A few of the prospect holes that were dug at the Bismarck Mine during the 1880's.

In Search Of The Bismarck Mine..

A man by the name of John Daggett owned the Bismarck Mine.  During the Calico area's silver boom, Daggett had built one of the first silver ore mills in the vicinity. 

Silver was discovered here in 1882, with the Bismarck Mine operating until around 1892.  The processed ore was shipped out via the ubiquitous mule teams, but the mail was brought into the camp on the back of a German Shepherd dog (for a time, anyway).

The silver ore was generally close to the surface, the veins followed no particular pattern.  The miners simply dug holes-the site is full of them- and followed the ore wherever it led them.

After only ten years, the Bismarck Mine was played out. 

Today, only the pockmarked hills remain.

In Search Of The Bismarck Mine...

An opening to one of the many mine tunnels at the Bismarck mine.

In Search Of The Bismarck Mine...

Even a wrong turn can yield some interesting sights. 

These layers of sedimentary rock indicate that this area was once under water.

In Search Of The Bismarck Mine...

Even with the Back Country Navigation phone application in use, it's possible to make a wrong turn.  That's what we did here. 

Shortly after turning off from Mule Canyon Rd., the trail became impassable.  Here, Joe, who has the more capable vehicle (larger tires and more ground clearance) is returning from his scouting mission to give me the bad news.

There's no shame in straying off course.  But, if there is any doubt about one's ability to handle a trail, don't press on!  Try to find another route, or turn back.