Merry Christmas Mine Hill - Mineral Point, WI
N 42° 51.563 W 090° 10.263
15T E 731115 N 4749082
Lead Mining on the Merry Christmas Mine Hill began centuries ago by the Native Americans in the area. Europeans began mining on the hill in 1825. In the late 1800's zinc was discovered and this became one of the largest zinc mines in the country.
Waymark Code: WM3XQZ
Location: Wisconsin, United States
Date Posted: 06/01/2008
Views: 40
Native Americans and French fur traders first mined this hill for the lead that lay near the surface. When Americans came to the area in the 1820s, they discovered rich lead deposits. At first the miners dug holes in the surface to obtain the surface deposits. These holes resembled badger holes and the miners were soon known as Badgers. A nickname that has stuck for the state.
Later shafts were dug to go after deeper deposits and in the late 1800s, it was discovered that there was zinc in a lot of the cast off stone from the lead mining and emphasis shifted to zinc mining. The mines closed in the mid 1900s.
A few buildings from the mining-era have been restored in the area and artifacts have been left on display for the visitor. Badger holes and mine shafts are still present and can be viewed by the visitor (but not entered.)
Mine Type: Abandoned Mine
Mineral Collecting: No
Material Mined: Non-Precious Metal
Operation: Underground Mine
Surface Features: Yes
KNOWN DANGERS:
There are existing mine shafts, but these are blocked off, but care should be still be taken. If you go off the trail, please be careful of shallow holes dug by the miners that still exist.
Any associated website: [Web Link]
Any Other information: Not listed
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Visit Instructions:
Optional photograph welcomed.