Alabama

Alabama has a rich history when it comes to gold mining. The state saw its first gold rush in the early 1830s, and since then, gold prospecting has been an integral part of Alabama's cultural heritage. In this blog post, we'll be taking a look at the different clubs, gold prospecting locations, museums, and important landmarks related to gold history in Alabama, along with links where available.

Clubs:

• Alabama Gold Prospectors Association (AGPA) - Founded in 1983, AGPA is a non-profit organization that brings together gold prospectors from across the state to share their knowledge, skills, and experiences. They hold regular meetings and events, and members have access to exclusive gold prospecting locations. 
• Alabama Treasure Hunters Club (ATHC) - ATHC is a non-profit organization dedicated to promoting metal detecting and relic hunting in Alabama. They organize regular hunts and events, and members have access to exclusive locations for metal detecting. 

Gold Prospecting Locations:

• Coosa River - The Coosa River is a popular location for gold panning, and there are several places along the river where you can try your hand at finding gold.
• Cragford District - The Cragford District, located in the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains, was a major gold-producing area in Alabama during the 1930s and 1940s. Today, you can still find gold in the streams and creeks in this area.
• The Alabama Gold Camp in Lineville, which offers gold panning and prospecting opportunities.
• The Hog Mountain area in Tallapoosa County, which has a history of gold mining.
• The Chulafinnee area in Cleburne County, which is also known for gold prospecting.
• The Weiss Lake area in Cherokee County, which is known for its gold-bearing sand and gravel.

Museums:

• Alabama Museum of Natural History - The Alabama Museum of Natural History, located in Tuscaloosa, has a large collection of mineral specimens from the state, including gold. 
• DeSoto Caverns Park - DeSoto Caverns Park is a popular tourist attraction in Alabama that features a museum with displays on the state's gold history. Visit their website at: https://desotocavernspark.com/

In conclusion, Alabama has a rich history of gold mining, and there are many opportunities for gold prospectors and history enthusiasts to explore and learn about this important part of the state's heritage. Whether you're a seasoned gold prospector or just interested in learning more, be sure to check out the clubs, gold prospecting locations, museums, and landmarks listed above.