Old Wauconda, WA 1896-1904

site visit 2011

 

   

The first Wauconda or Old Wauconda was located in Okanogan County and came into being after three brothers from Wauconda IL discovered gold in 1896.  This discovery started a small rush to the area by prospectors.  By 1898 a significant community had sprung up.  Wauconda had several hotels, saloons, and a general store.  A wagon road and stage between Chesaw and Republic twice a week made stops at Wauconda bringing mail and passengers.  The population grew to 300 at its peak. 

Wauconda was officially on the map in 1901 with the opening of a post office.  Wauconda was made up of four primary mines consisting of more than 2,000 feet of underground workings.  The Wauconda numbers 1, 2, 3, and the Oregonian.  The Wauconda Gold Mining Company operated these from about 1898 to 1904.

There was also a 60 ton stamp mill at the site, which no longer exists today.

As the mines showed signs of drying up so did Wauconda.  In 1904 the residents moved 2 miles over the pass to the present day location of Wauconda.

Today the only indicator Old Wauconda existed is a historic marker and the old mines.

Wauconda Community Hall built in 1917 at the current day site of Wauconda.
   

            

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Tailings of the old mines at Old Wauconda. 

Wauconda circa 1904. 

 

One of the old mines at the original Wauconda site.