Posted in West Virginia February 10, 2018 by

An Unexpected Ancient Ocean Is Hiding Underground In West Virginia

In a world that is is comprised of about 71 percent water, it hard to believe that there are entire oceans that most of us don’t realize exists. West Virginia is one such place. Though the people of that region have solid ground beneath their feet, far below them flows an ancient ocean more than 400 million years old.

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/
Underneath the Appalachian Mountains, deep below our feet, is an ancient ocean that is 400 to 600 million years old, predating the Atlantic. It is called the Iapetus Ocean.
YouTube/JQDickinson Salt-Works
Most people don't even know it exists. But the Dickinson family does. In fact, it is from this ocean that the brother and sister team of Lewis Payne and Nancy Bruns draw water. They draw water from the Iapetus because within it is a natural food source that their family has used for generations as salt distributors under the name J. Q. Dickinson Salt-Works.
The process pulls out natural salt that is free of unhealthy chemicals and ingredients. It is delicious and 100 percent natural.
YouTube/JQDickinson Salt-Works
The process begins from a natural pump that draws water from the ocean deep under the feet of the Dickinson farm. Giant hoses draw the water to the surface, where the next step of the process begins.
The water, or brine, is then deposited into these large shallow pools located in a greenhouse. Then, the natural heat of the sun continues the process.
YouTube/JQDickinson Salt-Works
Within the greenhouse, temperatures rise well over 100 degrees, allowing the water to evaporate. As the water evaporates, sparkling white salt crystals begin to emerge.
YouTube/JQDickinson Salt-Works
Vast amounts of salt are derived from the brine of the Iapetus. The process is completely done by hand - no machines. The siblings feel very fortunate to have access to this ancient and unique water source.
YouTube/JQDickinson Salt-Works
But more than this, they are proud to say that J. Q. Dickinson Salt-Works is the only company in West Virginia that provides a food product literally 400 million years in the making.

For more information about J. Q. Dickinson Salt-Works, including their online shop, visit their website here.

Have you ever tried salt from an ancient ocean, or some other unique source? Feel free to comment below and join the discussion.

To learn more about West Virginia, check out another usage for natural salt in this cave that completely relaxes you.