Duncan Patterson

The Swedish family of Gus Gustaveson and his two sons found the first gold on Duncan Creek in the Mayo district. Other prospectors were suspicious of the Gustavesons, as they bought supplies and were obviously mining, but did not register a claim. Duncan Patterson and three companions found the Gustaveson mine and staked claims on the main creek and Lightning Fork. Patterson staked the Duncan Lode claim in Keno/Mayo district in 1901. By 1902, the creek was staked for its entire length and there was mining records office at Duncan landing at the mouth. Duncan Patterson's party took out gold worth approximately $45,000 in 1902; $30,000 in 1903; and $15,000 in 1904.¹⁾