Western Gold Mine 8
I now have a functioning water wheel with water.
A few still pictures of the operating water wheel follow.
The water pump was put into one end of a reservoir fashioned from 1 1/4 inch ABS pipe. The reservoir hold about 350 ml or 1 and a half cups of water. The pump fills the water tower from beneath. A float valve in the water tower maintains a constant level by turning the pump on and off as required. The water falls onto the water wheel into a basin and sluice box which drains back into the reservoir. A drain screw has been set into the reservoir so that it can be drained when necessary.
The next steps are to fabricate a stone tile base to be set on the aluminum. A liver of sulphur patina will be applied to the water tower and crusher. I do not intend to patina the mine office or water wheel gear assembly.
Absolutely amazing how well that has all come together!
I’m currently working on opening up a mine that has been abandoned for over 120 years and recently found. Been trying to locate the site for 36 years or so and finally found it this last week.
Last details I found on the workings claim a six cart train is inside of the portal so we’ll see what’s there after we get inside. If anything good is there I’ll keep you updated.
Take care, Chuck McBride
Hi Chuck,
Glad to hear you found your long lost mine! Send me pictures if you can. I have ideas for more mining sculptures that your pictures might encourage.
William