The Comstock Historic District is a crucial National Historic Landmark, spanning over 14,000 acres and representing a significant chapter in Nevada’s and America’s history. The Comstock Foundation for History and Culture is dedicated to preserving this rich legacy by restoring and maintaining the district’s iconic sites, structures, and stories. Our mission is to ensure that these tangible connections to the past remain accessible for future generations, honoring the innovations and culture that shaped our nation.
We invite you to check out our ongoing projects below. These efforts focus on restoring historic buildings, conserving cultural landmarks, and revitalizing key sites within the Comstock District. Your involvement is essential to the success of these projects. Whether through volunteering your time, donating materials or funds, or helping to spread the word, you can make a meaningful impact. By joining us in these initiatives, you’re not only helping to preserve the physical history of the Comstock, but also ensuring that its stories and heritage continue to inspire and educate for generations to come.
Reach out today to learn more about how you can get involved and be part of preserving this remarkable piece of history.
Preserving the history of the Comstock isn’t just about saving old buildings; it’s about safeguarding the stories, experiences, and culture that define who we are.
Each preserved site is a link to the past, offering us valuable insights into the lives of those who came before us. By protecting these sites, we honor our heritage and ensure that future generations have the opportunity to connect with their history in meaningful ways.
Historic Site Restoration: We restore and revitalize iconic structures, breathing new life into historic buildings, mining relics, and landmarks for public enjoyment.
Architectural Conservation: We preserve the original character and craftsmanship of the Comstock’s most treasured sites using both modern and traditional methods.
Cultural Heritage Protection: We safeguard the Comstock’s rich cultural history, ensuring that its stories, traditions, and artifacts are preserved for future generations.
Community Involvement: Preservation is a team effort. We engage the community, local organizations, and volunteers to ensure our work reflects the values of those who call the Comstock home.
Donate: Your financial contributions are crucial to our preservation efforts. Every donation, large or small, directly supports the restoration and protection of the Comstock’s historic sites.
Volunteer: Join our team of dedicated volunteers and get hands-on with our preservation projects. Whether you’re skilled in construction, historical research, or just passionate about history, there’s a place for you.
Spread the Word: Help us raise awareness about the importance of preserving the Comstock’s history. Share our mission with your friends, family, and community to inspire others to get involved.
On several occasions from 2016 through 2020, stamp mill experts Charlie Connell and crew from Phoenix documented the condition of the stamp mill equipment and structures. Charlie gave stamp mill operating classes to volunteers; they are providing continuing guidance for the Donovan Stamp Mill restoration and operation. Charlie purchased 5 dies (120 lbs/each!) which were installed in #4 battery mortar box. CFHC is grateful for the expertise, hard work and time they spent with us!
The Foundation purchased a generator to provide 3-phase to power the 40 HP motor. The motor and reduction gear box were cleaned up and checked out, and connecting jack shaft and bearings were reconditioned and maintained. Battery #4 ore feeder was inspected, restored and lubricated. The required water flow was reconstructed with a recirculating system consisting of a pump, settling tanks and piping system. Stamp stems, camshaft and guides were freed and lubricated. A sluice table was constructed and installed in front of Battery #4.
A Service Concentrating Table was recovered from the Clack Mill. Major reconstruction was required to get it back into operating condition.
The Rotary Stamp Mill was donated to the Foundation by the Consolidated Virginia Mining company. This mill was stored in a Virginia City gravel pit and required a lot of PB Blaster and elbow grease to achieve operating condition. The Sierra Nevada Mine operated this equipment till World War II.