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snv002186-034
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    University of Nevada, Las Vegas. Libraries

    RICHARD COLBURNMENTION the famous Red Top mine any place in Ne-vada, California or Utah today and "Dick" Colburn is thought of instinctively. Less than three years ago this progressive citizen of Nevada's most prog-ressive town came into the camp which subsequently became Goldfield, with less than $100 as the sum total of his wealth. Today it would be difficult to estimate the values of his holdings.Richard Colburn came to Nevada three years ago from Salt Lake, Utah, where for years he was one of the most popular members of the Stock Exchange. He had become interested in the country through hearing of Tonopah, which at that time was causing excitement throughout the entire State of Utah. Deciding to "try his luck" in the new country, less than a fortnight after arriving at a decision found him in the mining camp. In those days the railroad ran only as far as Sodaville, and Colburn experienced his first taste of alkali dust on the disagreeable trip in the stage coach from Sodaville to Tonopah.The Salt Lake man did not prosper in Tonopah, although he made many friends. Not until his money had vanished did he think seriously of possible opportunities in other parts of the State. It was at this time, in May, 1903, that the news of the "strike" on Columbia Mountain reached Tonopah. In the vanguard of the rush which set out the next day was Colburn.Among the lucky locators on the spot when he reached the new camp was C. D. Taylor. He had located the Red Top bunch of claims, and to Colburn and his partner he gave a half interest in these for surveying the Jumbo group, which was also his. For months the "tenderfoot" worked with hammer and drill. As the camp grew, though, he saw the opportunities in the brokerage business, and in partnership with Messrs. Elliott and Williams, he entered into a more agreeable field of activity.The business prospered exceedingly well and Colburn made money. Then the Red Top Mining Company was incorporated and whole blocks of its stock sold under 10 cents. In the memorable "boom" of the winter of 1904 the Red Top struck its ore, and struck it rich. Since then "Dick" Colburn has been an influence to be reckoned with in Southern Nevada mining affairs. Millions of dollars' worth of ore is now blocked out and on the dump of the Red Top. Thousands of tons have been shipped and Red Top stock today is $1.75 bid.