Museums 101: Mining (Photo Diary)

Libby, Montana was originally developed because of mining which started in 1887 with quartz mines. The Snowshoe mine was especially important to the town’s development and during its peak production in the 1890s, this mine employed about 250 men.

Gold placer mining is said to have started in the 1850s and the placers were worked until 1935.

The Heritage Museum has exhibits both within the museum’s building and on the museum’s grounds which allows visitors to explore Libby’s mining heritage.

Outdoor displays:

Shown above is the Hardinge Ball Mill which was used to crush ore.