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Missouri Mines State Historic Site: A Glimpse into Missouri's Mining Past

Discover Missouri's lead mining legacy at Park Hills: Explore historic mill ruins, a mining museum, and captivating mineral collections.

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Explore the remnants of a once-thriving lead mining operation at Missouri Mines State Historic Site in Park Hills. Discover the history of the Old Lead Belt through towering mill structures, a comprehensive mining museum, and fascinating geological exhibits.

A brief summary to Missouri Mines State Historic Site

Local tips

  • Check the Missouri State Parks website for seasonal hours, special events, and potential temporary closures before visiting.
  • Wear comfortable shoes for walking around the historic mill complex and exploring the outdoor areas.
  • Consider scheduling a guided tour in advance, especially for groups of 15 or more, to gain deeper insights into the site's history and exhibits.
  • Visit during sunset for stunning panoramic views of the landscape and historic machinery.
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Getting There

  • Driving

    Missouri Mines State Historic Site is located off State Highway 32 in Park Hills. From US-67, take the MO-32 exit and head west. The site will be on your right. Parking is available on-site.

  • Public Transport

    While public transportation options directly to the site are limited, you can take a Greyhound bus to Farmington, MO, approximately 10 miles from the historic site. From there, consider a taxi or ride-sharing service to complete your journey to Missouri Mines State Historic Site. Taxi/ride-share fares from Farmington to the site typically cost around $20-$30.

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Discover more about Missouri Mines State Historic Site

Missouri Mines State Historic Site, located in Park Hills, Missouri, offers a captivating journey into the state's rich mining history. This site preserves the structures and artifacts of what was once the largest mine-mill complex in the Old Lead Belt. From the early 1700s, this region was a significant source of lead, with Missouri eventually becoming the leading lead producer in the U.S. The centerpiece of the historic site is the Federal Mill No. 3, later acquired by the St. Joseph Lead Company. Although the mill ceased operations in 1972, its towering concrete walls and metal frameworks remain, offering visitors a glimpse into the scale of the mining operations. The former powerhouse has been transformed into a museum, showcasing restored mining equipment, exhibits on mining history, and one of the Midwest's finest mineral collections. Visitors can explore exhibits detailing the mining and milling processes, view an audiovisual program, and examine the museum at their own pace. Knowledgeable staff are available to provide detailed insights and answer questions. The museum also features a collection of historic equipment, including the St. Joe Shovel, a crawling loader designed specifically for the local mines. In addition to the museum, visitors can walk around the exterior of the mill and explore the scenic trails surrounding the site.

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