Posted in South Dakota March 04, 2019 by

You Can Never Unsee The Horrors Of This Abandoned South Dakota Mine

Once upon a time, the biggest and most prosperous industry in South Dakota was mining, which brought in thousands of new families and helped shape the state into what it is now. Unfortunately, just as quickly as the mines grew, they dried up, leaving behind several abandoned mines like this one that you can never unsee:

We’re aware that these uncertain times are limiting many aspects of life as we all practice social and physical distancing. While we’re continuing to feature destinations that make our state wonderful, we don’t expect or encourage you to go check them out immediately. We believe that supporting local attractions is important now more than ever and we hope our articles inspire your future adventures! And on that note, please nominate your favorite local business that could use some love right now: https://www.onlyinyourstate.com/nominate/
Located in Pennington County is the ghost town of Etta; a once successful mining town that is credited with uncovering the largest spodumene crystal ever found.
Wikimedia Commons
Situated just one-half mile south of the popular Keystone (pictured), the Etta Mine was in business from the early 1880s through the late 1950s, when everything seemed to be unearthed.
Wikimedia Commons
Because of the mine's closure, residents began to quickly move away, leaving behind both a deafeningly quiet mine and town.
Flickr/John Kittelsrud
Today, virtually every part of the original structure is still intact, including the entrances...
YouTube/Clay Gibbs
...strong rock walls...
YouTube/Clay Gibbs
...and narrow passages.
YouTube/Clay Gibbs
Can you believe that this quarry once produced millions of dollars worth of tin and crystals?
YouTube/Clay Gibbs

Please note: Etta Mill is located on private property, so do not go exploring without receiving proper permission. To get an even better look at Etta, check out this video from Clay Gibbs:

Ready to get up close and personal with another SoDak mine? Click on There’s A Hike In South Dakota That Leads You Straight To An Abandoned Mine.