Bodie State Historic Park


We had come to the Bodie area for some cool weather, but we got more than we expected. (37kb) Not only did we have torrential rain, but we also had hail that was heavy enough to cause us to pull over to the side of the road. (117kb) Our approach to Bodie was made more dramatic because of the storm. (40kb) It was all that we could do to keep from kicking out the support to see what would happen. (47kb) A view of the sawmill from across the street. (43kb)
Should I trade in the Jeep? (52kb) The sawmill had to work hard. With winter temperatures of 40 below, 100 mph winds, and 20 foot snow drifts, lots of wood was needed. (56kb) This elegantly crafted iron wheel looks like a giant gyroscope from a UFO. (54kb) In spite of being in the elements for over 100 years this piece of equipment is still in excellent shape. (69kb) A door would help. (46kb)
Notice the storm clouds approaching. (78kb) This grave is outside of the cemetery proper because Rosa May, its inhabitant, was one of the many prostitutes that made life a little happier for the miners. (86kb) Just before sunset, we drove down Bodie Canyon and then turned right on a 4WD road which took us to the east side of Bodie Bluff and a great campsite by the old tailings pond. (58kb) It was cold. The fire helped, but we still froze our butts off. (53kb) Niki getting ready to load up the shaft with its curved cams that actuated the stamps. (81kb)
This picture, and the next two, were taken the following morning before leaving Bodie. The structure is a little seven stamp mill which stands on the old site of the ten stamp Bodie Consolidated about three quarters of a mile down Bodie Canyon toward Aurora. (54kb) This is the large wooden fly wheel of the stamp mill. (76kb) An interior shot of the stamps themselves. (74kb)