Journey Into the Past

Gold Dredge 8 procured over 7.5 million ounces of gold during its 31 years of operation, playing a pivotal role in the economy of the Tanana Valley. In fact, it is often said that gold mining helped save the city of Fairbanks. However, in 1942, gold mining faced a major setback when the War Productions Board issued Order L-208, shutting down all active gold mines in the U.S. Gold Dredge 8 was one of the few mines that successfully reopened after this disruption. In recognition of its historical and engineering significance, the dredge was added to the National Historic Registry in 1984 and designated a National Engineering Landmark in 1986. In 1984, Gold Dredge 8 reopened for tours, allowing visitors to experience its rich history.

Mining History in the Goldstream Valley

1901

E.T. Barnette steps off the 150-foot steamer Lavelle Young in downtown Fairbanks, with plans to build a trading post.

1902

On July 22nd, Felix Pedro, an Italian immigrant, discovers gold in the Goldstream Valley, just north of Fairbanks, marking the start of the Fairbanks Gold Rush.

1903

Many gold miners on their way to the Klondike to drift mine re-routed to Fairbanks when news struck.

1905-1909

These years are considered the peak of the rush. In 1909, gold output hit its highest point with 10.5 million dollars worth of gold discovered at a mere $17 per ounce.

1913

The decrease in gold output caused the failure of businesses that relied on gold production and effectively ended the rush, as gold output halved between 1909 and 1910 and didn't recover.

1927

Gold Dredge 8 was manufactured in San Francisco by Bethlehem Steel's Shipbuilding Division. The dredge was built to recover "waste gold" leftover from the drift miners who operated from 1903-1913.

1928

Dredge 8 was disassembled and shipped across the U.S., to San Francisco, and sailed to Alaska. Finally arrived in Fairbanks, it was transported on the Tanana Valley Railroad to the Goldstream Valley and assembled by the Fairbanks Exploration Company.

1942

Gold mining suffered a setback due to Order L-208 which forced the closure of all active gold mines in the United States during World War II. Gold Dredge 8 was one of the few mines that successfully reopened after the war.

1959

Gold Dredge 8 retired after 31 years of operation. Gold mining experienced heavy regulation when Alaska joined statehood which shut down Gold Dredge 8 and all similar dredges.