In an abandoned silver mine, a unique pair of Levi’s jeans dating back 100 years was found
More info: Instagram | YouTube
Levi’s, the renowned brand famous for its beloved blue jeans, has become an iconic name in the fashion industry. Founded by German immigrant Levi Strauss in 1853, the brand has stood the test of time, and its jeans are sought after by fashion enthusiasts worldwide. While contemporary stores offer a variety of Levi’s jeans, certain vintage classics are rare and hard to come by. One such discovery recently captivated the attention of explorer Brent Underwood, who stumbled upon a holy grail of denim during his underground adventures in the abandoned mines of California.
Photo: Screenshot from Brent Underwood/Ghost Town Living
Underwood, an avid explorer and resident of Cerro Gordo, a once-thriving mining town in California, embarked on a remarkable journey through the depths of the old silver mines. Among the debris left behind by generations of miners, he made an exciting announcement on his YouTube Channel, Ghost Town Living. Underwood had discovered a rare pair of 100-year-old Levi Strauss Jeans, providing a glimpse into the rich history of denim.
Photo: Screenshot from Brent Underwood/Ghost Town Living
The origin of blue jeans in abandoned mines may seem peculiar to some. However, the roots of blue jeans can be traced back to their functionality as durable work pants for laborers, including miners who flocked to California in the late 19th century. Although denim itself was not a novel fabric, it was tailor Jacob Davis who introduced the concept of work pants with metal rivets, partnering with Levi Strauss to patent the design in 1873. The ruggedness and practicality of these pants quickly made them popular among workers, coinciding with the mining boom in regions like Cerro Gordo.
During his exploration of the Jefferson Chimney, also known as the Union Mine, Underwood stumbled upon a pile of crumbled and dirty denim. Filled with excitement, he shared his rare find on YouTube, exclaiming, “I found something I’ve been looking for for a very long time!” The pair of jeans, complete with embossed buttons that resemble those on Levi’s jeans today, holds a significant historical value. Given the mine’s operation date, the jeans are estimated to be at least a century old, if not older.
Underwood’s daring journey through the treacherous mines required both skill and dedication. Navigating the dangerous underground passages demanded extensive training and expertise. Equipped with hundreds of feet of rope, Underwood descended into the depths, spending multiple days searching for hidden treasures. Alongside the vintage jeans, he unearthed artifacts such as antique signs, a weathered leather bag, and unused dynamite. Underwood’s captivating videos on YouTube and engaging Instagram presence allow viewers to explore these forgotten mines from the safety of their homes.
The discovery of the 100-year-old Levi Strauss Jeans by Brent Underwood, an intrepid explorer of abandoned mines, adds another fascinating chapter to the brand’s history. Unearthed from the Jefferson Chimney mine shaft in the derelict Cerro Gordo mining town, these aged denim jeans showcase the enduring appeal of Levi’s. Underwood’s excitement about this rare find is palpable and serves as a testament to the brand’s legacy and cultural significance.
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