Chance, John
On July 5, 1885, John Chance found the first gold nugget in the gravel at Granite Creek while he was cooling his feet in the water. It is said he discovered gold by “chance”. Together with partners, William Jenkins, Thomas Curry and E.M. Allison the Discovery Claim was registered with J.F. Allison on July 8, 1885. The claim was located one mile above the mouth of Granite Creek. This staked claim started the Granite Creek Gold Rush. Chance died a pauper in Republic, Washington.
References:
POV Pg. 24-25 Princeton 100 Years Pg. 7 Princeton BC (1979) – Laurie Currie Pg. 9, 19, 47 APGBC- pg. xxxviii