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Badger Mine & Museum: A Glimpse into 19th-Century Mining Life

Explore a hand-dug 1827 lead mine and discover Wisconsin's mining history at the Badger Mine & Museum in Shullsburg.

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Descend into a hand-dug 1827 mine and explore the life of 1850s lead miners at the Badger Mine & Museum in Shullsburg, WI. See the tools they used, experience the cramped tunnels, and learn about the region's mining history.

A brief summary to Badger Mine & Museum

Local tips

  • Wear comfortable shoes, as the mine tour involves walking and descending/ascending 51 steps.
  • The mine can be damp and cool, so bring a light jacket or sweater.
  • Check the museum's website for hours of operation, as they are limited and seasonal.
  • Allow at least 1.5 - 2 hours for a complete visit, including the museum and mine tour.
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Getting There

  • Driving

    The Badger Mine & Museum is located in Badger Park at 279 W Estey St, Shullsburg, WI. From Highway 11, follow signs for Shullsburg and turn onto Estey Street. The museum is a short drive from the highway. Parking is available in Badger Park near the museum. Parking is free.

  • Walking

    If you are already in downtown Shullsburg, the Badger Mine & Museum is within walking distance. Head west on Water Street, then turn left onto W Estey St. Continue into Badger Park; the museum will be on your right. The walk is generally flat and takes about 5-10 minutes from the center of town.

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Discover more about Badger Mine & Museum

The Badger Mine & Museum offers a unique opportunity to step back in time and experience the realities of 19th-century lead mining in southwestern Wisconsin. Located in Shullsburg, in the heart of the state's lead mining region, the museum and mine provide an immersive glimpse into the lives of the miners who helped shape the area's history. The experience begins in the museum, which showcases artifacts from Shullsburg's 179-year history. Exhibits focus on mining, cheesemaking, and daily life in early Wisconsin mining communities. After the museum, visitors descend 51 steps into the Badger Mine, a hand-dug mine dating back to 1827. As you walk through the narrow tunnels, you can feel the dampness and imagine the darkness the miners faced. The tour guide explains the methods used to extract lead ore with simple tools like picks, gads, and black powder. The mine was expanded in the 1960s to accommodate visitors, but original, smaller side tunnels remain, offering a sense of the confined spaces where miners worked. The Badger Mine & Museum provides an educational and engaging experience for all ages, shedding light on a significant chapter in Wisconsin's past.

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