Minong Mine, Isle Royale National Park, Keweenaw County, Michigan, USAi

Regional Level Types
Minong Mine	Mine
Isle Royale National Park	National Park
Keweenaw County	County
Michigan	State
USA	Country

The original Minong Mine was the largest operation on Isle Royale and the most profitable mine on the island during the early 1870s. The original mine site was focused on an area that contained the largest concentration of ancient mining pits located on the island. In June, 1874, workers discovered a mass of copper weighing 5,778 pounds for which the company is most famous for (as seen on many postcards). The company also produced much barrel and stamp copper. The company filed an Article of Association in July, 1874 and was also in negotiation to merge with two additional area mining companies.

The Minong Consolidated Mining Company was organized on December 16, 1874 after the merger of the original Minong Mine, the Ancient Mine, and the Cove Mine. In the spring of 1875, the company began bringing in supplies to aid in the cleanup of the property from previous work. During the summer of 1875, the company built a stamp mill to process copper onsite. The company operated three shafts and several trenches, all producing various amounts of copper. Along with barrel and stamp copper, several large masses were also found, including one weighing over six tons in 1878. By 1879, the company began to run out of funds and was reorganized to raise more capital. Work was stopped in 1881, but the property was leased on tribute until 1883 when all work ceased. In nine years, the Minong Consolidated produced almost 250 tons of ingot copper.

The mine site can still be visited where one can find copper and pumpellyite, but collecting is strictly prohibited.

Deposit: Numerous prehistoric workings. In 1871, area was rediscovered. In 1874 the minong mining co was organized and in 1876 a stamp mill was built. Production occurred from 1875-1883 numerous prehistoric workings in this area. Main workings were on a 1-3 feet wide vein with several large masses of copper (1-6 tons apiece)
Development: Several shafts and adits. Historical site with early artifacts preserved by national park service.
Geology: Mineralization along fissures and in rhyolite breccia overlying minong basalt.

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Link to USGS MRDS:	10082641

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References