There's An Abandoned Mine Hiding In New York And It'll Absolutely Fascinate You
By Lea Monroe|Published January 28, 2017
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Lea Monroe
Author
Writer for Only In Your State. Scribbling about all things New York and Buffalo related while also keeping you updated on the latest travel news! Inquiries: Lmonroe@onlyinyourstate.com
Fan of exploring abandoned, historic and slightly creepy locations in New York? Then we’ve got the next adventure you’ll want to take right here. Hiding down within the Hudson Valley is a piece of unique history that’s open to the public. You won’t need to worry about sneaking around No Trespassing signs to see this incredible place! Grab a flashlight and a friend because you need to see this abandoned mine that will absolutely fascinate you.
Right in Rosendale in Ulster County, Widwo Jane Mine is a huge piece of the small town's historic cement manufacturing.
The abandoned Widow Jane Mine was once a main key in Rosendale's booming cement industry. Beginning back in the 1800's, Rosendale cement was created after large deposits of dolomite limestone were found!
The Snyder family were the original owners of the mine, with part of the property now being owned by the Century House Historical District Society.
Take a drive down to Rosendale and you'll need to head towards the Snyder Estate, where visitors will be able to explore Widow Jane Mine. Travel down curvy Route 213 and you'll soon find yourself at the end of a long driveway that you'll need to go down!
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Those who are brave enough to go inside of this large cavernous space will find a room full of otherworldly pillars and pools of water.
This isn't an adventure you'll want to wear nice new, clean sneakers for. Those who are looking to explore the abandoned mine should wear sneakers they're willing to see get dirty or better yet, a pair of hiking boots! In many areas throughout the mine you'll find damp or muddy areas.
The entrance to Widow Jane Mine is usually filled with a considerable amount of light, but if you're really looking to explore the mine you'll absolutely need a flashlight.
Once you arrive and begin to make your way into Widow Jane Mine, you'll quickly realize just how much you underestimated the size and depth of this cavernous space. To be prepared like always, make sure you bring a flashlight as well as extra batteries and/or another backup flashlight. Better safe than sorry!
Over the years, the historical district has taken advantage of the unique space, hosting annual poetry readings, performances and other varieties of events.
Seems too good to be true, huh? The historical district has had annual poetry readings at the mine for over 20 years, as well as hosting a variety of performances and art exhibits over the years. It's hard not to constantly want to use this place for its spectacular acoustics!
Fun fact? Some musicians have even used the mine has a recording studio! It sounds that good in here.
While the origin of the mine's name has never quite been determined, some visitors have claimed that the believe Widow Jane Mine is haunted.
From what we know, there were only ever two people that went by the name Jane in all of the Snyder family. Neither of which were ever confirmed to be the inspiration for the mine's name. Some guests who have visited the eerie space have claimed to see a young woman wearing white wandering throughout the tunnels. Think the legends could be true?
Less than a half-hour away from popular destinations like Kingston and New Paltz, the mine is a perfect natural attraction to add onto any day trip that you make in the surrounding area!
From Widow Jane Mine you can get to Kingston in roughly 20 minutes, while the town of New Paltz is a quick 15-minute drive away. Depending on how long you take to explore this 32-square mile mine, you could easily visit several other places in the area. To find out more information about the historical district and Widow Jane Mine, click here.
Only ever explored Widow Jane Mine when it’s empty? Watch the video below provided by Louisa Duffyon YouTube and you can get a taste of what it’s like to enjoy a performance here:
