One of the perks that come along with being a Mississippian is being in-the-know when it comes to hidden attractions and destinations. Since much of the state is rural, many top sites are located in small towns down long, winding roads, making them nearly impossible to find – that is, unless you’re a local. And that just so happens to be the case with this abandoned site tucked away in the tiny town of Iuka.
Each year, thousands flock to Pickwick Lake in Iuka, completely unaware there’s a little piece of history hidden nearby.
Pickwick Lake/Facebook
Located along the south side of Pickwick Lake is Bear Creek. Several hundred yards up from the first inlet of the creek from Eastport is a hollow that contains an abandoned chalk mine.
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Referred to as Chalk Mine Hollow, the interior of the mine is about the size of a Walmart and includes three long tunnels, which are connected by numerous passageways.
Michael Babb/Facebook
Although an exact year is unknown, it is believed the mine was in operation by at least 1890. During its working years, chunks of Tripoli (chalk) were removed from the mine by railcar and transported across Bear Creek by a tramway.
C Hanchey/Flickr
The cars of Tripoli were then transported by mules to a mill in Riverton, before eventually being brought to the Riverton Train Depot for export.
Jimmy Emerson, DVM/Flickr
By 1912, the mine had to close because many workers developed silicosis, a respiratory disease caused by inhaling large amounts of the fine particles of silica, such as Tripoli, for extended periods of time.
Courtesy of Michael-Jon Woodruff of Iuka MS
Leaving behind an intriguing wonder just waiting to be explored.
Michael Babb/Facebook
The unassuming entrance doesn’t look like it leads to much of anything.
Michael Babb/Facebook
But step inside and you’ll be surprised at the sprawling sight that awaits you.
Heather South/Facebook
Full of numerous passageways, there’s plenty to explore once inside the mine.
Michael Babb/Facebook
Locals have been visiting the abandoned site for decades now.
Holly H./Foursquare
Several years ago, the “Daily Corinthian” published an article on Chalk Mine Hollow, which can be viewed here.
Michael Babb/Facebook
Have you ever visited this hidden treasure?
Pickwick Lake/Facebook
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Michael Babb/Facebook
C Hanchey/Flickr
Jimmy Emerson, DVM/Flickr
Courtesy of Michael-Jon Woodruff of Iuka MS
Heather South/Facebook
Holly H./Foursquare
For more hidden spots in the state, check out “Here Are The 10 Best Kept Secrets In Mississippi.“
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