Miners Foundry in Grass Valley turns 150 in style

Local News

The foundry, which began as a machine shop in 1859 and which is best known for the birth of the Pelton Wheel, now serves as the home of community radio station KVMR and often plays host to concerts and other events.

“We're very happy (with the turnout),” said Executive Director Gretchen Bond. “I've seen lots and lots of people, lots of families, lots of longtime community members.”

Visitors were able to peruse offerings from many historical organizations, feats on Cornish pasties — and popcorn — listen to the Cornish Choir, and even pet a rare Dexter cow from Quail View Ranch, much smaller (and arguably cuter) than its full-size brethren.

Deanna Figueira and her daughter, Anjali, got up close and personal with the cow before heading out. The two were visiting from Brazil on a summer trip to Deanna's former hometown.

“Anjali's been interested in the whole gold mining thing,” explained Figueira.

Anjali was particularly happy to have received a “gold” one-dollar coin as a prize, which were being given away for free to all the children in attendance.

Organizations in attendance included the Narrow Gauge Railroad, Sears Historical Library, Nevada City Winery, Rome Powerhouse, Native Sons of the Golden West, Idaho-Maryland Mine, American Victorian Museum and Lester Pelton.

“All of the organizations that are participating have a historic relationship with the foundry,” Bond explained.

Pelton, for example, designed and cast the first Pelton wheel and the Idaho-Maryland Mine was the first mine to order up several water wheels to run their equipment.

In the Great Hall, a display of mining equipment from Mike Nevius' collection was proving irresistible to children of all ages.

“We've been collecting ever since we've been married and we'll be celebrating 50 years,” said wife LaVeta Nevius, who was answering questions while appropriately dressed in period garb. “Mike's whole thing is preserving history, particularly mining history. He wants to keep stuff from going to the scrap pile.”