1981 was also the year the removal of the dirt and rock from the exit began in order to reopen the rooms closed to the public. All the old lumber from the 1910 ladders was removed, and while handling this old lumber, handfuls of square nails and some old tools were found. Some of the square nails and old tools are on display at the exit room. One hundred seventy-two stairs were constructed utilizing the abilities of carpenters and a geologist in order to present and preserve in the best manner possible, while maintaining the safest of conditions.

Mercer Caverns has been recognized for its beauty and historic significance numerous times. The most recent awards include; Certificate of Recognition from the 5th Senate District of the California Legislature; California Historical Society and State Fair One Hundred Year Club, Calaveras County Board of Supervisors Resolution honoring one hundred years of Operation, and State of California Point of Historical Interest (Cal 004) awarded August 2, 1985

This concludes our history up until today. The beautiful Mercer Caverns have been around for much longer than we have, and we are doing our best to keep it the exact way we humans found it. Please stop by if you're in the neighborhood! It's a visit into a timeless piece of Mother Earth that you won't readily forget!