Missouri Mines State Historic Site

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Missouri Mines State Historic Site occupies Federal Mill No. 3 in St. Francois County, Missouri, and was primarily responsible for mining lead and zinc. The site features an interpretive center in the old power building where one can learn about Missouri's Lead Belt.

Apparently many of the rivers in the area, including the Big River still suffer the effects of lead pollution from the plant.

This particular plant was built in 1906-1907, and was retired in 1972 as much of the area had been excavated and major operations were moving south. In 1975 the land was donated to the state of Missouri for recreational use. Much of the land was considered too damaged for return to a natural state and so became set aside for off-roading vehicles as St. Joe State Park, while the mill site has been designated an interpretive center. The site features dilapidated industrial architecture and unusually helpful and knowledgeable guides.

[edit] External links

• Extensive OzarksWatch article
• Official site
• Mine Safety and Health Administration article