Marcy Rod Mill
Hamilton Ghost Town
White Pine Range
Lincoln County, Nevada
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This is a portion of a 60-inch round gear that was used to tumble and crush the ore from the silver mine.
Hamilton appeared after the discovery of rich silver ore at Treasure Hill. The first settlers found shelter in local caves, which were numerous. By May 1868, the settlement, then known as "Cave City" was formed.

Boom years

The town boomed following the discovery of rich silver deposits nearby. With a population of six hundred, it was renamed for mine promoter W. H. Hamilton. The post office first opened for business on August 10, 1868 while the community was still part of Lander County, Nevada.

White Pine County was formed in March 1869, and Hamilton was selected as the first county seat. By its peak during the summer of 1869, Hamilton's population was estimated at 12,000. There were close to 100 saloons, several breweries, 60 general stores, and numerous other businesses. There were also theaters, dance halls, skating rinks, a Miners’ Union Hall, and a fraternal order located in the thriving community. Close to 200 mining companies were operating in the area.