I do not photograph a lot of architecture, but when in Grass Valley the subject presents itself. At first I wanted to capture the building itself. Flag flying, columns, an official seal. But without specialized lenses the buildings are leaning in all kinds of directions. I don’t know what is happening with the building on the right!

The only information I could find about this building is that in 2015 this building was up for sale. The architecture’s classic style really shows through in this second photo.

This Grass Valley Public Library has a classic look. At first I took a photograph eliminating parked cars, but with the cars the library feels used. After leaving Rough and Ready I didn’t want a ghost town feel for this library.

This Art Deco theatre continues to serve as a theatre since 1940. Not sure which photo does it justice. Cars or traffic? In this case I may have opted for no traffic. What do you think?

This is another view of the theatre. Now imagine the scene with cars from the 1940’s?
Couldn’t resist taking a picture of the very mellow dog.




Less than 5 minutes away is the North Star Mining Museum. Visiting at the end of the day does not do this museum justice. This is a small museum packed with history about gold mining. I taught 4th grade for many years and in the spring the main focus was the California Gold Rush. I’m sorry that I did not know about this place. The friendly volunteers are very knowledgeable. And there is so much to take in that I know I will be back, and stop here earlier in the day.
Wolf Creek runs along the museum, and I took some time to photograph the running water with a slow shutter speed. I like the way the sun plays upon the water, creating colors. I see a face peeking out on the right. Do you?


This is just a tiny sample of this museum. This assay office and its importance to gold mining was explained in detail.

30 foot Pelton Wheel is an original working machine. This museum was built around this wheel. It is amazing to see in person. All types of mining equipment is found at the museum, along with the effect of mining on the environment, economy and the people of the region.



I will be back to see more of this little North Star Mining Museum. Yes siree!!!