This document contains a letter from Lucius Fairchild dated February 12, 1850 to his family back in Madison. In the letter, Lucius describes the gold mining conditions he and his brother Ed have experienced over the past few weeks. He states that they initially thought they were in one of the poorest areas for gold, but after heavy rains moved them to a new location, they found it to be extremely rich. Lucius reports that he and Ed have taken out over $1200 total, which is a very good wage. He closes by signing as their affectionate friend, son, and brother.