Wyoming History: Frank McGovern Squanders Fortune
Frank McGovern, an educated Chicagoan, discovered the legendary Miners Delight mine, but lost over a million dollars to gambling, drinking, and violence.
In the 1860s, McGovern, the son of a wealthy Chicago family, left his city life behind for the gold camps of South Pass City, Wyoming. He spent his time drinking and gambling, earning a reputation as the terror of the Sweetwater Mining District.
McGovern's life took a turn when he stumbled upon the richest mine in the district, the Miners Delight mine. Despite this discovery, his wild lifestyle led to a legacy of squandered wealth and scandal in South Pass City.
He was well-educated and set up for high society, but instead chose a life of drinking and gambling in the gold camps.
- Discovered the legendary Miners Delight mine
- Lost over a million dollars to gambling, drinking, and violence
- Earned a reputation as the terror of the Sweetwater Mining District
Author's summary: Frank McGovern's story is one of squandered wealth.