St. John Mine facts for kids
Quick facts for kids |
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St. John Mine
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The mine visitor center in 2016
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 Location in Wisconsin
Location in the United States
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| Location | 129 South Main Street Potosi, Wisconsin 53820 |
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| NRHP reference No. | 79000079 |
| Added to NRHP | June 4, 1979 |
The St. John Mine is a cool historic spot found in Potosi, Wisconsin. It's so important that it was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1979. This list helps protect special places in the United States.
Contents
A Look Back at the St. John Mine
This mine started as a natural cave, a bit like a secret underground room!
Early Miners: Native Americans
Long, long ago, before Wisconsin became a state, Native Americans were the first to dig for lead at this site. They used the lead for different things, perhaps for tools or decorations.
The Wisconsin Lead Rush
Later, around 1827, many people came to Wisconsin looking for lead. This time was called the "lead rush" because so many people rushed to find this valuable metal. It was a bit like a gold rush, but for lead!
Willis St. John's Work
The first person from outside the Native American communities to work at this specific mine was named Willis St. John. That's how the mine got its name!
Visiting the Mine
Today, the St. John Mine is owned by a private group. Because of this, you can no longer take tours inside the mine.
