2012 Calendar of Events and Presentations
The Black Diamond Historical Society is conducting tours of the former coal mining town of Franklin on Saturday, February 4, and Sunday, March 4.
Franklin was a company-owned coal mining town in the late 1800s and early 1900s. The town site was nestled alongside the Green River Gorge and has many cement foundations, a 1,300 foot coal mine shaft, cemetery, and other reminders of what it was like when coal was king in the King County area.
If you’re unfamiliar with the town’s history, check out Franklin: Everything You Always Wanted to Know.
If you wish to go on the tour:
12 – 12:30 p.m.: Meet at the Black Diamond Museum. You may park in the Eagles parking lot. Fill out the Hold Harmless Agreement and drop your donation in the container at the front desk.
12:30 – 12:45 p.m.: Attend the orientation in the museum auditorium. Receive a map of Franklin and pictures related to the tour.
1 p.m.: Drive your vehicle, caravan-style, to the Franklin town site.
1:15 p.m.: Meet Tour Director Don Mason and Assistant Tour Director Dan Hutson. Be prepared for a rugged 1½-mile hike on rough terrain.
Enjoy the foliage, hear the river, see the sites, and hear the Franklin stories that Don Mason will share with the group about this ghost town.
- We would appreciate a $5 donation for each attendee except for minors, seniors, BDHS members, and veterans.
- Wear hiking boots and clothing suitable for the weather.
- Check with your doctor for clearance to engage in strenuous activity.
- Have a good time.