Holidays at Empire Mine 2012

“What do we do now?” is a popular post-Thanksgiving question. Holidays at Empire Mine is the perfect answer, and an ideal event for family and visiting guests. It’s where history comes alive, and Santa Claus makes his gift list. A popular, annual tradition, this year the event will feature several new additions to add to the festive feel.
Visitors will see many brand-new period costumes, created specifically for docents portraying historic characters. “They are magnificent,” said Event Chair,… Show more Patricia Speer, and here’s where they will make their debut.” Another new element will be the free, handmade, ‘golden star’ cookies offered in the Bourn Cottage kitchen. “They’re star-shaped with golden sprinkles, and made with good, old-fashioned ingredients,” Speer added. “Personally, I think historic housekeeper Katie Moriarty would be delighted.” Also making their musical debut in Bourn Cottage are the String Sisters, a local teen trio who will play traditional Celtic tunes.
In the nearby Clubhouse, Santa and Mrs. Claus will be listening to Christmas wishes for their 13th consecutive year. Just outside, hot dogs, kettle corn and beverages will be on sale. The Mineyard will be bustling with activity, with demonstrations in the blacksmith shop. Even the old offices will be open for business, as they were when Empire Mine was one of the largest and most prosperous hard-rock gold mines in North America. Docents portraying Mr. and Mrs. William Bourn, Jr., George and Libbie Starr, and colorful housekeeper Katie Moriarty will be greeting visitors, and recreating what life was like in those glory days of the early 1900s. “Don’t forget the decorations,” Speer reminded. “They are lavish, and traditional. Our docents go all out to make Holidays at Empire Mine a memorable event for families, history and gold mining enthusiasts.”
Besides all the festivities, the Gift Shop will be open – with many unusual items for sale, just in time for Christmas. Holidays at Empire Mine will be held Friday, November 23rd and Saturday, November 24th.

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