The Union Mine was once one of the largest underground mine complexes in the state. The complex was made up of dozens of individual mines that eventually joined together. The mines were developed by dozens of shafts, adits, and open stopes. What is so impressive about this site is that 90% of the development was completed before 1900. By the turn of the century, the mine had reached a depth of 1,300 ft. and nearly 25 miles of workings had been driven.

Until we visited the Union Mine, we were fairly confident that no one had found a way in for a very long time. We confirmed this theory after seeing only our own footprints in the long haulage tunnels we walked through. In this short series, we explore the 100 and 200 Levels of the Union Mine. We plan to revisit this mine to attempt to push deeper into the expansive workings.

This mine had a number of neat old artifacts that we don't commonly see in mines. A Carbolite carbide can and a Hercules blasting cap tin were my favorites. In Part 2, we find something that I have never seen underground before! I hope you enjoyed and stay tuned for Part 2!

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