We’ve all heard of Terlingua. It’s the most famous ghost town in Texas, the site of a world-renowned international chili cook-off, and a gateway of sorts to the majestic Big Bend. But a lesser-known topic of conversation is how the city got its start: mining. Mariscal Mine was an integral part of the mercury industry in the United States and contributed significantly to economic growth in our state. You can still visit the ruins today and imagine what life as a miner was like.
Due to its remote location in the West Texas desert, the Mariscal Mine is the most well-preserved mercury mine in Texas, earning it a spot on the National Register of Historic Places as of 1974.
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It was responsible for producing 1400 flasks of mercury between 1900 and 1943, accounting for nearly 25% of the nation’s production of the mineral during that time period.
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Operations began in 1900, when the mineral was first discovered in the area by rancher Martin Solis. The mine was sold to many different owners before finally failing in 1944.
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Working conditions were horrendous - laborers had to build their own meek shelters, suffered severe health consequences from mercury exposure, and worked 10-hour days for a meager wage of $1-$1.50.
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Much of the mine still exists as ruins today, including underground shafts that were never filled in and closed off. There are even rumors about the area being haunted by workers who died in tragic mining accidents or from disease.
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Covering over 600 acres, the mine encompasses an extremely vast expanse of land - but a visit here will help you understand Texas history and the downfall of our most famous ‘ghost town’ a little bit better.
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Did you know about Mariscal Mine and Terlingua’s history as a mercury town? Check out these photos to see more of Texas ‘back in the day.’
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