Missouri Mines State Historic Site
What to See...
The Museum
The powerhouse of Federal Mill No.
3 has been converted into a museum of
Missouri mining, history and technology.
One of the prominent displays is a
detailed scale model of the powerhouse
complex as it appeared when originally
built in 1906 and was powered by
steam supplied from the boiler room on
the south side of the powerhouse.
The first of three museum galleries
contains underground mining
equipment. The successful development
of the Old Lead Belt can be attributed in
part to equipment such as the diamond
drill, the St. Joe Shovel, and “electric
mules” that replaced men and mules for
moving cars of ore.
The second gallery features exhibits
on lead, geology, mineral resources and
an outstanding systematic mineral
collection. Part of this gallery is the
fluorescent mineral room with its array
of excellent minerals that can be viewed
under shortwave and longwave
ultraviolet light. Cut and polished
stones, translucent minerals, crystals, and
jewelry featuring Missouri rocks and
minerals are to be found among
the displays.
A corner of Gallery II retains a few of
the steam-heated lockers from the days
when this room was a change room.
Another corner of the room houses the
Museum Shop where related books,
minerals, mineral jewelry, rock hound
equipment and souvenirs may
be purchased.
The third gallery is the partially
renovated power room. Giant air
compressors supplied air power under-ground
to run the pneumatic drills and
other equipment. This gallery eventually
will contain exhibits on mining history,
mining technology, and the economic
uses of Missouri’s mineral resources.
The Orientation Room
This room is a small theater that will
seat 25 people as they watch slide
programs, films, and videotapes. Special
programs can be shown to groups
by appointment. |
Places To Visit Nearby
St. Joe, St. Francois, and Hawn state
parks are located near Missouri Mines
State Historic Site. All these parks offer
opportunities for camping, picnicking,
hiking, and other recreational activities.
In addition, St. Joe State Park offers off-road-
vehicle recreational facilities,
swimming, and equestrian camping
and trails.
Maps (in PDF):
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