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 and processing lead and zinc ore. The site features a geological and mining history museum and interpretive center in the old power building focussing on Missouri's historic old Lead Belt.

This particular plant was built in 1906-1907, and was retired in 1972 as much of ore in the area had been mined 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