Mine Mugshot: Big Thunder Mine

Where: Keystone, Black Hills, South Dakota, United States

Mine Type: Gold

Operations: 1892 - 1921, Panning still done to this day

Owners: Privately owned (McClain family)

Output: Unknown; the first 35 years in operation a tunnel was cut 680 into the mountain and 240 feet below the surface; (trace amounts are panned every year by tourists)

Notable Facts: Tykoon Gold Mill originally operated on this land back in 1895 and processed ore from this mine and others in the area. It contains one of only three original Stamp Mills remaining in the United States. Originally the mine was named Gold Hill Lode by its two German founders--Krupp and Engle. 

Photo: bigthundermine.com

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