Two men died here mining the frozen moonlight

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Selenite we collected outside the Gypsum Queen mine.

The Gypsum Queen mine was in operation at the same time the Cubs won the World Series in 1908.  Fragile walls of gypsum, mined to make plaster, collapsed, killing two men, contributing to the mines closure.

Selenite, crystal gypsum, forms in layers within the sediment of this ancient lake bed.  This beautiful crystal gets it’s name from the Greek, seline, for the moon.  Ancient people believed Selenite was frozen moonlight.  Others believed Selenite allowed it’s owner to have clearness of thought or wisdom.  We collect it because it is beautiful.

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Ancient alluvial flows remain, sculpted by wind and rain.

Today begins the craft and art show as part of Old West Days celebration, here in Shoshone. As one of the gateways to Death Valley National Park, we expect a busy weekend.