Schellbourne

"Schellbourne is one of those places that always seems to be open. It isn't hard to see why. Any form of establishment makes rightful company out here in the middle of the Great Basin." -- March 2008

Along US 93 at Schellbourne Rest Area, 27 miles north of McGill

White Pine
39.796980, -114.741870

Original Date Visited: 3/13/08
Signed: Both lanes of US 93

Street View

Here's what you'll see!

Marker 51 in far eastern Nevada Marker 51 represents one of many "hubs" on the Pony Express Trail You'll also find these awesome interpretive signs at the rest area

Exact Description:
Schellbourne, in the foothills of the Schell Creek Range was a Shoshone village site long before it began its regent historic career in 1859. Captain James Simpson passed through the site and this point looking for a short route across the Great Basin. That same year, an Overland Stage and Mail Station was built at Schellbourne. In 1860, the Pony Express Company used the same facilities, and when the telegraph arrived in 1863, it passed over this same route.

During the rush to Virginia City mines in 1859 and 1860, it became necessary for the army to send troops to this point to protect the personnel of that western pilgrimage.

Silver ore was discovered in the mountains immediately to the east of Schellbourne in the early 1870's and it became part of the Aurum Mining District in 1871. An active mining camp developed with a population of over 500 persons. By 1885, the ore had been mostly depleted and the camp abandoned. The district and adjacent valley were then acquired by "Uncle Billy" Burke as a ranch. Schellbourne has operated as the headquarters for various ranches since that time.

COVERED IN US MY 93 ROAD TRIP

Next Marker

CHERRY CREEK

Related Links & Markers:

- 176 - The Surveyors - 271 - Pony Express Trail ... Nevada Towns: Aurum Nevada Stations (National Pony Express Association)

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