Chollar – Potosi Mining Co.

Founded by William “Billy” Chollar in 1859, the original Chollar claim measured 1,400 feet in length and 400 feet in width. In 1861, the nearby Potosi mine discovered an ore body that dipped into Chollar and sued to recover it. Later, when Chollar found rich ore extending into the Potosi and filed suit, the dispute became one of the costliest litigation cases in Comstock history, eventually consuming 1.3 million in court costs. In April 1865, the two companies merged to form the Chollar – Potosi Mining Co. The operation became the first mine on the Comstock to generate electric power. From 1861 to the 1920’s, total production reached $17 million, making it the fifth largest producer in Comstock history. In 1963, the Chollar opened to the public and began conducting mine tours during spring and summer months.

Virginia City, Nevada · United States