Christenot Mill Preservation Association – Christenot Family History

History in the Making

The Christenot Mill Preservation Association helps to preserve the remains of the Christenot Mill in coordination with the Bureau of Land Management (BLM), the owner of the land and Mill, located at Spring Gulch near Virginia City, Montana.

In 1995, inspired by a visit to the site of the Christenot Mill and upon learning of their historical connection, over 150 family members started the Christenot Mill Preservation Fund. In 1997, a two-week, volunteer work party of family members and friends aided the BLM to fence and stabilize the mill building. As a result of this experience, the Christenot Mill Preservation Association was formed to partner with the BLM. This working partnership still continues.

On February 26, 1999, the National Register of Historic Places recognized Union City (site of the Christenot Mill) of Madison County, Montana. The National Registration plaque helps to educate visitors. This is the only example of a gold mill used in conjunction with lode (hard rock) mining in Alder Gulch that is listed on the National Register.

Christenot family and friends have helped the BLM to stabilize the Mill at twelve work parties since 1997, donating labor and materials. New windows frames and doorways are added to help stabilize the remaining walls. Masonry has been added or reinforced to help with the wall strength and preservation. Wooden remains have been treated with chemical preservative, and brush and small trees are removed. See Christenot Mill Work Parties to learn more.

Donate to Help Stabilize the Christenot Mill

Your donation to the Christenot Mill Preservation Fund will be used to help with stabilization projects. This is not a tax-deductible donation.

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Mill Stabilization

Headers, sashes, and sills were crafted and placed at the first Mill Work Party in July 1997.

History of the Christenot Mill

The Christenot Mill, located at the head of Spring Gulch at Union City, Montana, began operation in 1867 to process gold ore from the nearby Oro Cache mine. The citing of the Mill near the Oro Cache was sound, but operation of the Mill was short-lived. A Sheriff’s Sale was ordered for July 8, 1869. The remains of the Christenot Mill provide a window of understanding for hard rock gold mining in Alder Gulch. Researching the history of this gold mill has provided much information. Read further about the Christenot Mill and the Christenot family connection here.

Thank you for your support!

If you have any questions about the Christenot Mill Preservation Association and the history of the Christenot Mill, please contact us.