TIMMINS GOLD
The Porcupine Gold Rush transformed this remote wilderness into Canada's most productive gold camp. The Hollinger Mine alone produced over 19 million ounces.
The Gold
Massive tonnage, consistent grades. The Hollinger operated for 60+ years at an average grade of 0.33 oz/ton — remarkable for such volume.
Geology
Part of the Abitibi Greenstone Belt. Gold occurs in quartz-carbonate veins within sheared volcanic rocks along the Porcupine-Destor Fault.
The Fire
July 11, 1911 — the Porcupine Fire killed 73 miners and destroyed early workings. The camp rebuilt and went on to produce 70M+ oz.
Historic Giants
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the Porcupine Gold Rush?
The Porcupine Gold Rush began in 1909 when prospectors discovered gold near Porcupine Lake. By 1912, major mines like the Hollinger, Dome, and McIntyre were in full production, transforming the region into Canada's premier gold camp.
What happened in the Porcupine Fire of 1911?
On July 11, 1911, a devastating forest fire swept through the Porcupine region, killing 73 people including many miners. Despite the tragedy, the gold rush continued and the camp became one of the most productive in history.
Is there still gold mining in Timmins?
Absolutely! The Porcupine Camp has produced over 70 million ounces of gold and continues to operate. Major mines include Dome (now called the Timmins Complex), Pamour, and various smaller operations.
Gold Knowledge Resources
Optional gold-culture references for readers curious about bars, coins, purity and storage language after prospecting. These are third-party resources, not financial advice.
BullionVault
Third-party resource for learning how vaulted physical gold services describe storage, fees and custody.
Retailer reference. No commission tracking is confirmed.BullionStar
Useful for comparing bars, coins, premiums and purity language after learning field testing basics.
Affiliate link. Paystreak may earn a commission; check the provider’s terms.APMEX
Browse mainstream bullion product formats and premiums as gold-culture background, not prospecting advice.
Retailer reference. No commission tracking is confirmed.JM Bullion
Reference catalogue for seeing common retail names, weights and purity markings used on coins and bars.
Retailer reference. No commission tracking is confirmed.The Digger's Code
- Backfill all holes before you leave.
- Pack out all your trash.
- Respect fence lines and gates.
Legal Disclaimer
Land access rights, safety conditions, and public fossicking zones change. You are solely responsible for verifying regulations with local authorities (DOC/Council/BLM) and assessing river safety before visiting. Paystreak.io accepts no liability for injury, fines, or trespassing. Never dig on private land without explicit permission.
✓ Information last verified: January 2026