“Well goddang, if that isn’t the darnedest thing I ever seen.” — Old Jim Sawyer, 49er of Clearwater Peak.

Preferring their mountainous home to the busy life of the local township, these hardy men have however since become an integral part of life in and around Clearwater.

With the arrival of the blight that roams the land, silver and the humble wood have become much prized items. What this tough group can bring to a fight is pain, devastating destruction and a stubborn willingness to not falter in their defence of their way of life.

It’s a brave creature that tries to part a miner with his trusted pickaxe or shovel.