Arrived at a very busy 'ghost town' which grew up during the gold rush of mid 1800's and became deserted once the gold ran out.
Today it boasts many tourist shops, bars, cafe/ restaurants and two shows, one at the theatre was performing Box and Cox, the other at the Brewing company was a cheeky review for the over 18's.
At the lower end of the town was a narrow gauge railway operating trips to the sister town of Nevada City where you can watch a living history show. This weekend it was the trial and hanging of a 'Road Agent' (highway robber). I also had another go at panning for gold and gems. No gold but a nice ruby and other gems, mainly small ones.
I called in at the Rock Shop in Birginia City and had a most enlightening 30 min chat to owner Dave and bought a near perfect cube of silica.
Interesting places.
Love to return one day!