Sunday is a day out of the early 1900s at Empire Mine State Historic Park.

Women in long dresses and bonnets, smithies hammering iron, smelters showing how the gold was processed-this is what an open house at one of the richest gold mines in the area is all about.

From 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., visitors will see living history presentations in the Bourn cottage, the mine yard and the clubhouse as they were in 1905.

As volunteers enact a working day at the mine, meet the office staff and other mine workers, see and hear working machinery and feel the coolness of the mineshaft.

Female visitors who don fancy bonnets while strolling the park will receive 10 percent off any purchase of potted heirloom plants, including the roses the park is known for.

Plenty to eat and drink, and children will have the fun of decorating a potted plant for a Mother's Day gift.

Proceeds benefit the Empire Mine Park Association in its ongoing programs to restore the historic buildings and grounds and to enhance educational opportunities at the Park.

- The Union staff



WHAT: Spring Open House

WHEN: Sunday, 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.

WHERE: Empire Mine State Historic Park, 10791 E. Empire St., Grass Valley

ADMISSION: Adults (17+) are $3; $1, children 6 Ð 16; free for children under 6.

INFORMATION: Contact (530) 273-8522; online at www.empiremine.org