People in a Nome gold mine, ca 1903 (MOHAI 7315)

In Alaska and the Yukon, placer gold was found along ancient stream beds, some of which were underground. This often required much digging and long hours in the cold and dark. Candles were scarce and expensive at a dollar apiece.
This photo, taken in Nome sometime between 1899 and 1906, shows a group of people working 110 feet underground for the Balkan Mining Company. Women and children did work in Klondike and Alaska mines, but is unclear whether the woman and children in this photo are workers or visitors.
Original title: Underground workings of Balkan Mining Co. Nome, Alaska. Depth 110 feet
Subjects (LCTGM): Balkan Mining Co.; Child laborers; old miners; Gold mining; Gold rushes; Women--Employment