The Historic Blue Ribbon Mine/Potato Patch, Alaska

About Us

Over 120 years

Gold was first reported in the streams draining the mountains in 1898, but it wasn't until 1906 that the first claim-staking and production was recorded.

A road, now known as the Petersville Road, was constructed in 1927, and before 1930 over 1800 ounces of beautiful Placer Gold (over $3.6 million at today's prices, $1.2 million dollars/acre) had been reported produced from the "Potato Patch" section of the mine, by sluicing only the top 1' and moss. Underreporting was common then. In September 1939, then-owners Frank and Helena Jenkins, Joey Brittel, an employee, and Dick Francis, a neighbor miner were found murdered.

WWII stopped any further mining, and the mine was abandoned until 1985, except for government exploration programs. Total production between 1942 and 1985 is unknown, but tailings and pits left behind can provide a guess that some gold was produced by small-scale activities.

Artist Sydney Laurence mined for gold here while getting inspiration for his famous Denali paintings, and Bush Pilot Don Sheldon worked at the mine the summer of the murders, but left before the "Cache Creek Massacre". See "The Mystery of the Cache Creek Murders"

A Family Mine, 3 Generations, continuing to supply critical minerals

This is a gold nugget from the Blue Ribbon Mine. We explore for and recover other minerals as well. Platinum has been recovered around the mine. Rare Earth elements are also present, as is Tin and other minerals. (Alaska Resource Data File TL074). USGS MRData file.

We responsibly explore for and develop mineral resources

By combining industry-proven methods and advanced modern scientific exploration technology, we are able to define the economic resources, and explore, develop, operate, and reclaim the mine site using the most efficient operation that reduces any potential impacts to a minimum.

We are aware of the importance of an effective community engagement process to the Project. Blue Ribbon Mine LLC is currently in the process of reinitiating community engagement activities with local communities, including the Towns of Trapper Creek, Susitna Community Council, Sunshine, and Talkeetna, other interested stakeholders, and regulatory authorities, on a priority basis.

Some of the raw placer gold nuggets as well as gemstones from the Blue Ribbon Mine may be viewed at the Dorothy G. Page Museum in Wasilla Alaska

The name "Blue Ribbon Mine" came from the remains of a weathered wooden crate found at the mine by Dennis Garrett, who nailed it to a 4x4 and said "This is The Blue Ribbon Mine."

Contact Us

Better yet, see us in person!

We love our friends and neighbors, so feel free to visit during normal business hours.

By appointment only at this time.

A handy Drive Guide to the Petersville Road and some information about the Petersville State Recreational Mining Area.

If you're looking for adventures and hospitality, visit our neighbors Ken and Winona Lee at The Cache Creek Cabins.

December 6 is National Miners Day.

May 10 is Alaska Mining Day.

The Alaska State Mineral is Gold.

The Blue Ribbon Mine

Got a question? Send it to us! We are always interested in new talent, ideas, or visitors. BlueRibbonMine@protonmail.com "Mining is a patient game and it always only will be won by the patient, those who persevere." DRG

The Blue Ribbon Mine

Mile 1 Blue Ribbon Mine Road, Yentna Mining District, Trapper Creek, Alaska, USA

This website is for education and informational purposes only, and does not constitute an offer to sell, a solicitation of an offer to buy, or a recommendation of any security or any other product or service by Blue Ribbon Mine, LLC. All brands, logos and other service marks are the property of their owner and does not constitute an endorsement.

The Blue Ribbon Mine

Welcome to The Blue Ribbon Mine, Alaska

About Us

Over 120 years

A Family Mine, 3 Generations, continuing to supply critical minerals

We responsibly explore for and develop mineral resources

News from The Blue Ribbon Mine

Images and maps of The Blue Ribbon Mine

Potato Patch Gold Nuggets

Downloads

Contact Us

Better yet, see us in person!

The Blue Ribbon Mine

Drop us a line!