Central Mine

Copper Country Heritage Guide - Types

The Central Mine was opened in 1854 on a narrow fissure deposit along the Greenstone ridge just east of Eagle Harbor. The mine would earn the unique distinction of being the first and only to make a profit its first year, thanks to the extremely rich deposit it was lucky enough to find itself sitting atop. The mine would end up mining nearly ten million dollars worth of copper and silver and paying out to its shareholders nearly two million in dividends.

The mine consists of four shafts and two adits, joined to its mill at the base of the ridge by an elevated tramway. Due to its remote location, the mine spawned a rather sprawling community that boasted its own school and post office. The mine and community would thrive for nearly a half century, before the great copper riches at its feet simply ran out in 1898. The mine was abandoned and the town it supported was emptied almost overnight, leaving nothing but a ghost town in its place.

Click on an image below for more information.

Central Engine House

Central – Amazingly intact for its age, this massive stone structure was built over a century and a half ago to house one of the Central Mine’s steam powered hoists.

Central Stamp Mill

Central – While the mill itself has mostly rotted away, the vast mine tailings that it left behind can still be seen bordering the adjacent highway.

Central Miner’s House

Central – This small wood framed home was one of dozens built by the Central Mine to house those workers with families.

Central No. 2

Central – In 1872 ten miners lost their lives in this shaft when the man-car they were riding in broke free from its cable and dropped several thousand feet to the bottom.

Central Powder House

Central – This thick walled structure – featuring an unique brick embellished doorway – was used to store the Central Mine’s supply of explosives and.

Central School

Central – Only a few foundation walls and a scattering of bricks remain of this massive three story school building erected by the Central Mine for the benefit of its worker’s children.

Superintendents House

Central – This large home was built by the Central Mine for its superintendent to reside in when visiting the minesite.