Mayflower Gold Mill Tour — Silverton, Colorado

Discover the Mayflower Gold Mill Tour in Colorado

Step into the world of historic ore processing at the Mayflower Gold Mill (also known as the Shenandoah-Dives Mill) in Silverton. This National Historic Landmark offers an extraordinary look at how gold, silver, and base metals were crushed, concentrated, and processed during Colorado’s mining boom—using some of the most advanced technology of its time.
Why it’s special:
The Mayflower Gold Mill is one of the best-preserved intact flotation mills in the United States, with original equipment still in place exactly as it operated in the early 20th century.

History/Story of the Mayflower Gold Mill

Built in 1929 by the Shenandoah-Dives Mining Company, the Mayflower Mill revolutionized ore processing with its modern flotation system, replacing older stamp mills and dramatically increasing metal recovery. The mill ran until 1991, serving as one of the longest-operating mills in the San Juan Mountains. Today, it’s preserved by the San Juan County Historical Society as a rare industrial treasure that transports visitors back to Silverton’s mining heyday.

What You’ll See & Do at the Mayflower Mill

• Explore the five-story mill from top to bottom via self-guided route

• See jaw crushers, ball mills, flotation cells, classifiers, and shaking tables

• Learn how ore was crushed, ground, chemically treated, and concentrated

• View original machinery, piping, conveyors, and ore chutes

• Step inside control rooms and operator cabins with vintage gauges and switches

• See the massive rotary dryers and settling tanks

• Walk the conveyor tunnels and loading platforms overlooking the Animas River

• Enjoy interpretive panels explaining the mill’s processes and history

Hands-On Elements: Mineral samples, touchable equipment surfaces, ore displays, interactive panels.
Photo/Video Policy: Photography encouraged indoors and outdoors; no tripods in narrow areas.
Souvenirs & Extras: Rock samples, books, postcards, mining history merchandise.

Pricing of the Mayflower Gold Mill Tour

• Adults: $10

• Seniors (60+): $8

• Children (ages 6–12): $5

• Children under 6: Free

• Group rates available

Practical Info for Visiting the Mayflower Mill

Duration: 60–90 minutes
Format: Self-guided tour through multi-level industrial spaces
Schedule & Seasonality: Open late May through early October
Working Hours: Typically 10:00 AM–5:00 PM
Audience: History buffs, mining enthusiasts, engineers, families
Accessibility: Multiple stairs; not wheelchair accessible
Safety & Restrictions:

• Closed-toe shoes recommended

• Older industrial walkways require caution

• Children must stay with adults
  Languages: English (printed guides available)
  Group Visits: Ideal for school groups and engineering students
  What to Bring/Wear: Jacket, sturdy shoes, camera
  Facilities: Small gift shop, parking, restrooms (seasonal)
  Closures & Downtime: Closed in winter due to snow and cold

Nearby

• Old Hundred Gold Mine Tour

• Silverton Historic Downtown

• Million Dollar Highway Scenic Byway

• Animas River Trail

FAQs About Visiting the Mayflower Gold Mill

Is the mill still operational?
No—the machinery is preserved as it was left, but the entire system is intact and walkable.

Can I explore multiple floors?
Yes—the tour winds through all major levels of the five-story structure.

Will I see ore or minerals?
Yes—mineral samples, concentrates, and original ore materials are on display throughout.

Is the tour safe for children?
Yes, though supervision is required due to industrial stairs and equipment.

What makes this mill unique?
Its flotation system is largely untouched, making it one of the nation’s most complete historic mills.