MILFORD MINE NATIONAL REGISTER HISTORIC DISTRICT, CROW WING COUNTY, MINNESOTA
CULTURAL LANDSCAPE REPORT Site History, Existing Conditions, Analysis and Evaluation
Prepared by Two Pines Resource Group, LLC and 10,000 Lakes Archaeology, Inc.
March 2015 PUBLIC VERSION
MILFORD MINE NATIONAL REGISTER HISTORIC DISTRICT, CROW WING COUNTY, MINNESOTA
CULTURAL LANDSCAPE REPORT Site History, Existing Conditions, Analysis and Evaluation
Prepared for Crow Wing County Land Services 322 Laurel Street, Suite 12 Brainerd, MN 56401
Prepared by Michelle M. Terrell, Ph.D., RPA Two Pines Resource Group, LLC 17711 260th Street Shafer, MN 55074
Amanda Gronhovd, M.S., RPA 10,000 Lakes Archaeology, Inc. 220 9th Avenue South South St. Paul, MN 55075
THIS PROJECT WAS FUNDED IN PART BY THE ARTS AND CULTURAL HERITAGE FUND
March 2015 PUBLIC VERSION
MILFORD MINE NATIONAL REGISTER HISTORIC DISTRICT CULTURAL LANDSCAPE REPORT
This publication was made possible in part by the people of Minnesota through a grant funded by an appropriation to the Minnesota Historical Society from the Minnesota Arts and Cultural Heritage Fund. Any views, findings, opinions, conclusions or recommendations expressed in this publication are those of the authors and do not necessarily represent those of the State of Minnesota, the Minnesota Historical Society, or the Minnesota Historic Resources Advisory Committee.
MILFORD MINE NATIONAL REGISTER HISTORIC DISTRICT CULTURAL LANDSCAPE REPORT
MILFORD MINE NATIONAL REGISTER HISTORIC DISTRICT CULTURAL LANDSCAPE REPORT
They came mostly to fulfill dreams of a better life and were willing to work hard and long to achieve that – if not for themselves, at least for their children…
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Among the miners there developed a closeness and camaraderie that transcended the differences in language, ethnic background, and religion.
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“For God’s sake, run faster! The whole lake has come in!”
The Milford Mine Disaster: A Cuyuna Range Tragedy Berger Aulie, 1994
MILFORD MINE NATIONAL REGISTER HISTORIC DISTRICT CULTURAL LANDSCAPE REPORT
MILFORD MINE NATIONAL REGISTER HISTORIC DISTRICT CULTURAL LANDSCAPE REPORT
TABLE OF CONTENTS LIST OF FIGURES ______V LIST OF TABLES ______VII CHAPTER 1 . INTRODUCTION ______1 STUDY BOUNDARIES ______2 PROJECT BACKGROUND______4 SCOPE OF PROJECT AND METHODOLOGY ______6 GUIDELINES ______6 HISTORICAL RESEARCH ______6 PREVIOUS CULTURAL RESOURCE STUDIES ______7 FIELD VISITS ______8 CURRENT CONDITION ASSESSMENTS ______8 GEOGRAPHIC INFORMATION SYSTEM DATA______8 REPORT FORMAT______8 SITE HISTORY______8 EXISTING CONDITIONS ______9 ANALYSIS AND EVALUATION ______9 PRESERVATION APPROACH ______9 SUMMARY OF FINDINGS ______9 CHARACTERISTICS AND FEATURES OF THE MILFORD MINE HISTORIC DISTRICT 10 CHAPTER 2 . HISTORIC CONTEXT AND SITE HISTORY ______11 MINNESOTA IRON: DISCOVERY AND EXPLORATION ______12 THE VERMILION RANGE ______16 THE MESABI RANGE______18 THE CUYUNA RANGE______19 POPULATING THE IRON RANGES______23 MILFORD MINE ______24 EXPLORATION AND DEVELOPMENT OF THE IDA MAE/ MILFORD MINE, 1912-1924 24 THE MILFORD MINE DISASTER: FEBRUARY 5, 1924 ______25 AFTERMATH OF THE DISASTER AND RECOVERY EFFORTS ______28 POST-DISASTER OPERATIONS AND CLOSURE, 1924-1932 ______31 CHAPTER 3 . EXISTING CONDITIONS ______35 SITE DEVELOPMENT OVERVIEW ______35 SPATIAL ORGANIZATION______38 LAND USE ______39 CIRCULATION ______39
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VEGETATION______42 STRUCTURES ______45 RAIL GRADES ______45 PICNIC SHELTER ______45 SMALL-SCALE FEATURES ______47 PARK ENTRANCE SIGN ______47 INFORMATIONAL KIOSK AND SIGNAGE ______47 BENCHES AND PICNIC TABLES ______48 BOAT LAUNCH ______49 BICYCLE RACK ______49 LANDSCAPE BOULDERS ______1 ARCHAEOLOGICAL FEATURES (21CW282) ______50 CHAPTER 4 . ANALYSIS AND EVALUATION: SIGNIFICANCE AND NATURAL CHARACTERISTICS ______53 EVALUATION OF HISTORICAL SIGNIFICANCE ______53 CURRENT NATIONAL REGISTER STATUS ______53 SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANCE FOR THE 1912-1932 PERIOD ______54 NATIONAL REGISTER LISTING BOUNDARY DESCRIPTION______54 POTENTIAL REFINEMENT OF THE NATIONAL REGISTER LISTING BOUNDARY____ 54 EVALUATION OF LANDSCAPE INTEGRITY ______56 ANALYSIS OF LANDSCAPE CHARACTERISTICS______58 NATURAL SYSTEMS AND FEATURES ______58 GEOLOGY ______58 SOILS ______58 FOLEY POND / MILFORD LAKE ______60 TOPOGRAPHY______63 SPATIAL ORGANIZATION______64 VEGETATION______65 LAND USE ______68 VIEWS AND VISTAS ______69 CHAPTER 5 . ANALYSIS AND EVALUATION: STRUCTURE AND BUILDING REMAINS __ 71 CIRCULATION – ROADS______72 ROAD TO WOLFORD ______72 ROAD TO MANGANESE ______74 ROADS WITHIN THE HISTORIC CORE ______75 CIRCULATION – RAILROAD FEATURES ______77 SOO LINE RAILROAD GRADE AND TRESTLE ______77
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MINE SPUR ______79 POST-DISASTER SPUR ______82 BORROW PITS FOR RAIL GRADE AND ROAD CONSTRUCTION ______85 MINE SHAFTS AND EXPLORATORY DRILL HOLES ______85 MAIN SHAFT AND HEADFRAME (SHAFT HOUSE) ______85 TIMBER SHAFT NO. 1 ______90 TIMBER SHAFT NO. 2 ______92 EXPLORATORY DRILL HOLES ______92 BUILDING REMAINS – INDUSTRIAL COMPLEX ______94 MACHINE SHOP / BLACKSMITH SHOP (BUILDING 1) ______94 ENGINE (HOIST) HOUSE (BUILDING 2)______96 POWER HOUSE (BUILDING 3) ______100 WATER TANK (BUILDING 4)______102 DRY HOUSE (BUILDING 5) ______104 GARAGE (BUILDING 6) ______107 UNKNOWN (BUILDING 7) ______109 UNKNOWN (BUILDING 8) ______109 SHOPS (BUILDING 9) ______110 OFFICE______111 PUMP HOUSE ______111 BUILDING REMAINS – RESIDENTIAL COMPLEX ______112 MINE WORKER HOUSING ______112 RESIDENCE - PRESUMED (BUILDING 10) ______114 RESIDENCE - PRESUMED (BUILDING 11) ______115 RESIDENCE - PRESUMED (BUILDING 12) ______115 RESDIENCE - PRESUMED (BUILDING 13) ______116 BOARDING HOUSE FOR SINGLE MEN (BUILDING 14) ______116 UNKNOWN (BUILDING 15) ______117 STORAGE FACILITY ______118 ORE-HANDLING AND WASTE ROCK RELATED FEATURES ______119 OVERHEAD TRESTLES ______119 WASTE ROCK PILE______120 STOCKPILE GROUNDS ______120 ORE BANK (STOCK PILE)______122 TIMBER YARD ______123 CAVED GROUND______125 WATER-CONTROL STRUCTURES______126
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MUD RUN, LAUNDER, AND DIKES ______126 MILFORD LAKE DAM ______127 DRAIN TO THE MISSISSIPPI RIVER ______127 BERM / DAM (2009)______128 SMALL-SCALE FEATURES ______128 “CAVED GROUND” SIGN ______128 GUY WIRE ANCHOR ______129 OTHER ARCHAEOLOGICAL FEATURES ______129 DEPRESSIONS ______129 SURFACE DEBRIS AND TRASH PILES ______130 POTENTIAL ARCHAEOLOGICAL RESOURCES ______131 NON-CONTRIBUTING ARCHAEOLOGICAL SITES ______131 CHAPTER 6 . PRESERVATION APPROACH ______141 AGENCY CONSULTATION ______141 PRESERVATION TREATMENT STRATEGIES ______142 PRESERVATION ______142 REHABILITATION ______143 RESTORATION ______143 RECONSTRUCTION ______143 PRESERVATION TREATMENT STRATEGY CONSIDERATIONS ______144 MILFORD MINE PRESERVATION TREATMENT APPROACH______145 GUIDELINES AND RECOMMENDATIONS ______146 GUIDELINES FOR DESIGN AND CONSTRUCTION ______146 DETERIORATION OF CONCRETE AND MASONRY FEATURES ______148 VISITOR SAFETY ______150 VEGETATION MANAGEMENT ______150 NATIONAL REGISTER FORM UPDATE ______150 INTERPRETATION PLAN ______151 PROTECTION OF ARCHAEOLOGICAL RESOURCES ______151 VISITOR AMENITIES ______152 ATV AND SNOWMOBILE TRAFFIC ______152 PRESERVE, PROTECT, SHARE______152 BIBLIOGRAPHY OF PRESERVATION GUIDELINES ______153 REFERENCES CITED ______155
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LIST OF FIGURES
Figure 1. Milford Mine Site, 1924, View to North...... 1 Figure 2. Study Area Locator Map ...... 2 Figure 3. Study Area ...... 3 Figure 4. Milford Mine Memorial Park Master Plan (Anderson 2007)...... 5 Figure 5. Minnesota’s Three Iron Ranges...... 11 Figure 6. Soudan Mine, Number 8 Shaft, c. 1900...... 16 Figure 7. The Hull Mine on the Mesabi Range, 1908 ...... 19 Figure 8. Steam-Powered Exploratory Drill...... 1 Figure 9. Open Pit Mining with a Steam Shovel near Virginia, Minnesota ...... 22 Figure 10. Group of Miners near Ironton, Minnesota, c. 1925 ...... 23 Figure 11. Milford Mine and Workers’ Housing in 1924, View to North ...... 26 Figure 12. Newspaper Illustration of the Milford Mine at the Time of the Disaster ...... 27 Figure 13. Milford Mine on Undated Map of Whitmarsh Mining Company Holdings ...... 32 Figure 14. Milford Mine Complex, 1939 Aerial Photograph ...... 35 Figure 15. Milford Mine Memorial Park Master Plan (Anderson 2007)...... 37 Figure 16. Park Entrance and Access Road, View to West-Southwest...... 38 Figure 17. Access Road / Former Soo Line Railroad Grade, View to Southwest...... 39 Figure 18. East Parking Area, View to Northeast...... 40 Figure 19. West Parking Area, View to West...... 40 Figure 20. Trail Along Post-Disaster Rail Spur, View to Southwest...... 1 Figure 21. Path to Picnic Shelter Following Alignment of Pre-Disaster Road from Wolford to the Milford Mine, View to Southwest...... 41 Figure 22. Milford Lake from Park Entrance, View to Southwest...... 42 Figure 23. Wetland Communities Present within Milford Mine Memorial Park ...... 43 Figure 24. View Across the Northwest Arm of Milford Lake, View to Southwest...... 44 Figure 25. Encroaching Forest Growth within the Historic Core, View to North ...... 44 Figure 26. Pine Plantings Around East Parking Lot, View to North ...... 45 Figure 27. Picnic Shelter, View to South...... 46 Figure 28. Bench Near Picnic Shelter ...... 46 Figure 29. Picnic Shelter Retaining Wall and Split-Rail Fence, View to West-Southwest...... 46 Figure 30. Park Entrance Sign, View to Southwest ...... 47 Figure 31. Informational Kiosk (Left) and Example of Wayfinding Aid (Below) ...... 47 Figure 32. Bench Near the End of the Post-Disaster Rail Spur, View to Southwest ...... 48 Figure 33. Picnic Table along the Post-Disaster Rail Spur, View to the South...... 48 Figure 34. Boat Launch, View to Southwest ...... 49 Figure 35. Bicycle Rack...... 1 Figure 36. Landscape Boulders ...... 1 Figure 37. Existing Conditions Plan ...... 51 Figure 38. Historic Boundary of the Milford Mine (Dashed Line) ...... 55 Figure 39. Recommended National Register Historic District Boundary Revision ...... 56 Figure 40. Iron Formation (Red) and Exploratory Drill Holes (Dots)...... 59 Figure 41. Soil Survey Map of the Study Area...... 59 Figure 42. Foley / Milford Lake (Arrow) on 1913 USGS Topographic Map ...... 60 Figure 43. Overlay of 1913 and 1973 USGS Topographic Maps with 1913 Lake Boundary Outlined and Caved Ground Indicated...... 61 Figure 44. Depth Map of Milford Lake...... 62 Figure 45. 1913 USGS Topographic Map of Milford Mine Site (Arrow)...... 63 Figure 46. Historic Core Cleared of Vegetation, 1939 ...... 66 Figure 47. Photograph of the Milford Mine Location without Trees, 1924 ...... 66 Figure 48. View of Foley Pond at the time of the 1924 Disaster Illustrating the Presence of Tamarack Trees and Wetland Vegetation...... 67
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Figure 49. Segment of Pre-Disaster Road to Wolford that now Forms the Approach to the Picnic Shelter ...... 73 Figure 50. Section of Post-Disaster Road to Wolford, View to Southwest ...... 73 Figure 51. Road through Milford Mine Location, View to North, 1924 ...... 75 Figure 52. Road through Milford Mine Location, View to North, 2014 ...... 76 Figure 53. Soo Line Grade, View to West, 2009...... 78 Figure 54. Soo Line Grade, View to West, 2014...... 78 Figure 55. Mine Spur Tracks on Detail from the 1925 Milford Mine Map ...... 80 Figure 56. Milford Miners Standing to the South of the Mine Spur ...... 81 Figure 57. Elevated East End of the Mine Spur, View to East, 2009...... 81 Figure 58. Post-Disaster Spur Track (arrow) on 1925 Milford Mine Map ...... 82 Figure 59. Post-Disaster Spur Grade, 2009, View to Northeast ...... 83 Figure 60. Post-Disaster Spur Grade, 2014, View to Northeast ...... 83 Figure 61. West End of Post-Disaster Spur, 2009 ...... 84 Figure 62. West End of Post-Disaster Spur, 2014 ...... 84 Figure 63. Headframe over the Milford Mine’s Main Shaft, View to the Southwest, 1924 (Stanchion Circled)...... 86 Figure 64. Milford Headframe and Overhead Trestles, View to south, Undated ...... 86 Figure 65. Danger Caved Ground Keep Out” Sign, Main Shaft...... 1 Figure 66. Large Diameter Pipe Projecting from Main Shaft Opening...... 1 Figure 67. Clump of Trees Marking Main Shaft Location, View to West-Southwest ...... 1 Figure 68. Pipes within the Entrance of the Main Shaft ...... 88 Figure 69. Photograph of the Main Shaft’s Entrance and Cage Following the 1924 Disaster,..... 1 Figure 70. Fencing Around Timber Shaft No. 1, View to Southeast ...... 90 Figure 71. Copse of Trees Marking the Location of Timber Shaft No. 1, View to East ...... 91 Figure 72. Modern and Historic Warning Signs, Timber Shaft No. 1...... 91 Figure 73. Shoring within the Entrance of Timber Shaft No. 2...... 91 Figure 74. Casing of Exploratory Drill Hole No. 551 (Depression P) ...... 93 Figure 75. Plan of Machine Shop / Blacksmith Shop (Building 1)...... 1 Figure 76. The Engine House (Arrow) in an Undated Photograph of the Milford Mine, View to North...... 96 Figure 77. Plan of the Engine (Hoist) House (Building 2) ...... 98 Figure 78. West Ingersoll Rand Compressor Base, View to South, 2009 ...... 99 Figure 79. West Ingersoll Rand Compressor Base, View to South, 2014 ...... 99 Figure 80. Collapsed Northeast Corner of the Hoist House Foundation, View to Southwest... 100 Figure 81. The Power House (Arrow) in an Undated Photograph of the Milford Mine, View to North...... 101 Figure 82. The Water Tank (Arrow) in an Undated Photograph of the Milford Mine, View to North...... 102 Figure 83. Plan of the Water Tank’s Footings...... 103 Figure 84. The Dry House (Circle), 1924 ...... 104 Figure 85. Plan of Dry House (Building 5)...... 1 Figure 86. Drain within Floor of Dry House ...... 1 Figure 87. Overview of Dry House Location, View to North...... 1 Figure 88. The Garage (Arrow) in an Undated Photograph of the Milford Mine, View to North...... 107 Figure 89. Broken Concrete at the Northwest Corner of the Garage Foundation, View to Southeast ...... 1 Figure 90. Building 8, View to Northeast...... 1 Figure 91. Mine Worker Housing at the Milford Location, View to North, 1924 ...... 112 Figure 92. Mine Worker Housing at the Milford Location, View to North, 1924 ...... 113 Figure 93. Cellar Hole of Building 10, ...... 1 Figure 94. Irish Patch near Building 10,...... 1 Figure 95. Cellar Hole of Building 13, View to South ...... 1 Figure 96. Boarding House (Building 14) Cellar Hole, View to Southwest ...... 1 Figure 97. North Cut, Storage Facility, View to East...... 1
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Figure 98. The Overhead Trestles and Waste Rock Pile (Arrow), View to Southwest...... 119 Figure 99. Stockpile Grounds (Arrow) on Detail from Property Map, 1925 ...... 121 Figure 100. The Edge of the Stockpile (Arrow) is Visible at Right, View to North, 1924...... 122 Figure 101. Timber Yard (Arrow) on Detail from Property Map, 1925 ...... 123 Figure 102. Example of Timberwork along the Main Drift of an Underground Mine ...... 124 Figure 103. Piles of Timbers are Visible in this 1924 Photo of the Milford Mine’s Headframe .. 124 Figure 104. Dotted Outline of Caved Ground (Arrow) on Detail from Property Map, 1925...... 125 Figure 105. Mud Run, Launder, and Dikes on detail from Property Map, 1925...... 126 Figure 106. View of Former Drainage Ditch to Mississippi Along County Road 30, ...... 1 Figure 107. Caved Ground Sign, View to North, 2009...... 1 Figure 108. Caved Ground Sign, View to West, 2014...... 1 Figure 109. Guy Wire Anchor, View to West...... 1 Figure 110. An Oil Can Documented on the Surface within the Milford Mine . Historic District, 2009 ...... 1 Figure 111. 1925 Map of the Milford Mine Property – Updated 1965 and 1982 (A.O.A. 1965) ...... 135 Figure 112. Large-Scale Features of the Milford Mine Historic District...... 137 Figure 113. The Historic Core of the Milford Mine Historic District ...... 139 Figure 114. Collapsed Northeast Corner of Engine (Hoist) House Foundation, View to Southwest...... 1 Figure 115. Collapsed Floor and Void (Arrow) within the Ruin of the Engine (Hoist) House..... 148 Figure 116. Example of Fencing of Ruins at Croft Mine Historical Park ...... 149
LIST OF TABLES
Table 1. Tonnage Shipped by Year* ...... 33 Table 2. Depressions Indicating Subsurface Features ...... 130 Table 3. Summary Table of Landscape Feature Evaluations ...... 132
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CHAPTER 1 . INTRODUCTION
The Milford Mine Historic District is located in Wolford Township, Crow Wing County, Minnesota. On February 5, 1924, the Milford Mine was the site of Minnesota’s worst iron ore mining accident in which 41 miners lost their lives. The historical significance of the site was recognized in 2011, with the listing of the historic district on the National Register of Historic Places. The historic district encompasses approximately 180 acres owned by Crow Wing County and is located within the county’s Milford Mine Memorial Park. Contained within the boundary of the district and park are the remains of structures and archaeological features that document the operation of the mine and the daily lives of its workers, together with the grades of the rail lines that once serviced the mine, and the roadways that connected it to neighboring locations. Surrounded by lakes and wetlands, the isolated nature of the mostly wooded site has contributed to its excellent preservation since the mine’s abandonment in 1932.
A Cultural Landscape Report is a long-term management tool designed to guide future decisions regarding the preservation and use of a historic cultural landscape. The report documents the history and current conditions of the property, identifies its principal characteristics and features, and establishes preservation goals. This Cultural Landscape Report has been prepared to ensure that as the County develops the Milford Mine Memorial Park that it will continue to preserve and protect the features and characteristics that make this one of the Minnesota’s most unique and significant historical places.
FIGURE 1. MILFORD MINE SITE, 1924, VIEW TO NORTH
(MINNESOTA HISTORICAL SOCIETY)
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STUDY BOUNDARIES The Milford Mine National Register Historic District and the related Milford Mine Memorial Park are located in Crow Wing County’s Wolford Township in the SW ¼ and the W ½ of the SE ¼ of Section 23 (Township 47N, Range 29W) (Figures 2 and 3). The historic district encompasses approximately 180 acres, while Milford Mine Park is 170 acres of uplands and 70 acres of the public waters of Milford Lake. During the course of this study, it was also learned that the mine’s operations extended into the SW ¼ of the SE ¼ of Section 23. For this reason, the study area for the Cultural Landscape Report was defined as a 240-acre area that encompasses both the historic district, the park, and the entirety of the Milford Mine’s historic operations as well as segments of related roads and rail lines (see Figure 3).
The Milford Mine is located within the northern portion of Minnesota’s Cuyuna Iron Range and just to the south of the Mississippi River. The historic core of the property is located on an upland to the west of Milford Lake and to the south of Island Lake. The site is located approximately four miles north of the town of Crosby and to the west- southwest of the intersection of Minnesota Highway 6 and County Road 30. The Milford Mine Memorial Park can be reached by taking County Road 30 to Milford Lake Drive.
FIGURE 2. STUDY AREA LOCATOR MAP
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FIGURE 3. STUDY AREA
(PORTION OF CUYUNA, 1973, 7.5’ USGS QUADRANGLE)
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PROJECT BACKGROUND Crow Wing County’s Milford Mine Memorial Park encompasses the National Register- listed Milford Mine Historic District and its archaeological component, site 21CW282. In 2007, the county’s consultant Short Elliott Hendrickson, Inc. (SEH) developed a master plan for the park (Anderson 2007) (Figure 4). The stated goals of the four-phase park plan are (1) to develop a memorial to the 41 miners who lost their lives in the 1924 disaster, and (2) to allow visitors to experience the natural beauty of the site through quiet recreational activities (e.g, hiking, canoeing, and wildlife viewing). While the management plan was developed with an emphasis on interpreting the history of the Milford Mine and called for the “exposing of old foundations,” it did not include measures for preserving and protecting the mine’s archaeological and cultural resources.
Phase 1 of the park’s development plans entailed the construction of an access road, parking areas, and a canoe launch along the north shore of Milford Lake. The construction of Phase 1 was preceded by a Phase I archaeological survey and the completion of the National Register nomination for the property (Hohman-Caine and Goltz 2009; Terrell and Ladwig 2010; Terrell 2010). In consultation with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and the Minnesota State Historic Preservation Office (SHPO) Phase 1 project plans were modified to avoid impacts to contributing resources to the historic district and its viewsheds. Phase 1 was constructed in 2010.
Phases 2 and 3 of the park development plans include the creation of trails (including a memorial walk), a picnic shelter, a canoe landing, and a permanent boardwalk as well as informational and interpretive signage. Some of this work will take place within the historic core of the mine site and within the boundary of 21CW282. Phase II archaeological investigations in anticipation of this work were completed in 2014 (Terrell and Gronhovd 2014). While in the field, the Principal Investigators collaborated with Crow Wing County project manager, Bryan Pike, to modify the proposed trail alignments. Pathways were adjusted to primarily follow historical circulation routes through the site thereby avoiding impacts to structural remains and associated archaeological features.
Phase 4 entails the development of trails, a boardwalk, and a picnic shelter within the western portion of the site. Phase 4 is not yet scheduled.
It is the goal of this study to provide Crow Wing County with the information necessary to establish the Milford Mine Memorial Park as a place that simultaneously preserves, protects, and shares the history of the mine and honors the memory of those who lost their lives in the 1924 disaster.
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FIGURE 4. MILFORD MINE MEMORIAL PARK MASTER PLAN (ANDERSON 2007)
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SCOPE OF PROJECT AND METHODOLOGY A Cultural Landscape Report is needed for the Milford Mine site in order to ensure that the long-term management of the County’s park reflects The Secretary of Interior’s Standards for the Treatment of Historic Properties. The Cultural Landscape Report will also facilitate the Minnesota State Historic Preservation Office’s review of future undertakings that may impact the Milford Mine National Register Historic District. To this end, the Cultural Landscape Report will:
. Identify the characteristic and defining features of the Milford Mine property in order to ensure their future preservation
. Increase the understanding of how the landscape of the Milford Mine property has been shaped by its history
. Include plans and images of the Milford Mine that illustrate its history in order to aid in future planning and the development of interpretation plans
. Provide guidance on the placement of new facilities and circulation features that are sensitive to the site’s historic use and character
. Highlight preservation needs and interpretation opportunities
GUIDELINES Guidelines for the preparation of a Cultural Landscape Report are outlined in A Guide to Cultural Landscape Reports: Contents, Process, and Techniques (Page et al.1998). Standards for the treatment of these resources are provided in the publication The Secretary of the Interior’s Standards for the Treatment of Historic Properties with Guidelines for the Treatment of Cultural Landscapes (Birnbaum and Peters 1996). Additional guidelines for the management and preservation of cultural landscapes are also defined in Preservation Briefs 36, Protecting Cultural Landscapes: Planning Treatment and Management of Historic Landscapes (Birnbaum 1994). This project was conducted in accordance with these guidelines and additional applicable federal and state guidelines and standards, including those established by the Advisory Council on Historic Preservation (National Park Service 2002), and those of Minnesota’s State Historic Preservation Office (Anfinson 2005; SHPO 2010) and Office of the State Archaeologist (Anfinson 2011). Project methods meet the U.S. Secretary of Interior's Standards for Identification and Evaluation (National Park Service 1997).
HISTORICAL RESEARCH Additional historical research to augment the existing site history and historical context contained within the National Register nomination was conducted in support of the CLR and to aid in site interpretation. Resource types consulted included historic images, maps, aerial photographs, newspapers, and other primary and secondary documentary resources in the holdings of the Minnesota Historical Society; the Cuyuna Iron Range Heritage Network, the Iron Range Research Center, the Croft Mine Historical Park office, the University of Minnesota’s Borchert Map Library, the Department of Natural Resources’ Landview and Underground Mine Mapping websites, and a variety online databases including, but not limited to, the Library of Congress and Minnesota Reflections.
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Of particular importance to the documentation of the Milford Mine property are four maps of the mine’s operations; a 1938 inventory of the mine’s equipment; and aerial photographs flown in 1939.
. Milford Mine Disaster Report Exhibit A: Showing Distance of Mine Operations from Foley Pond. Whitmarsh Mining Co. Milford Mine. [Map] Scale 1 in. = 50 ft. (MDLI 1924).
. Plat of SE ¼ - SW ¼ & SW ¼ - SE ¼, Section 23-47-29, Crow Wing Co., Minn.: Showing Relation of Foley Lake to Milford Mine Operations. [Map] Scale 1 in. = 100 ft. (Pearl 1924)
. Milford Mine. Copied from Amherst Mining Co. Map dated January 1925 [Map] (A.O.A. 1965) (see Figure 111).
. General Map, E ½ of Milford Mine. [Map] Scale 1 in. = 40 ft. (G.W.C. 1946).
. Milford Mine: Inventory of Major Items of Plant and Equipment, November 16, 1938 (Whitmarsh Mining Company 1938).
. Aerial Photographs BXT-2-80 and BXT-2-113. Both flown on September 20, 1939.
PREVIOUS CULTURAL RESOURCE STUDIES In preparation for this study, the results of previous cultural resource studies that have taken place within the boundaries of the Milford Mine Memorial Park were reviewed. These include:
. Phase I Archaeological Survey, Milford Mine Memorial Park, Crow Wing County, Minnesota (Hohman-Caine and Goltz 2008)
. A Cultural Resources Survey for Phase 1 of the Milford Mine Memorial Park, Crow Wing County, Minnesota (Terrell and Ladwig 2010)
. Milford Mine Historic District National Register Nomination Form (Terrell 2010)
In conjunction with this study, a Phase II archaeological investigation of the site was conducted. The results of that study are documented in the following report:
. Phase II Archaeological Investigation for the Milford Mine Memorial Park Master Plan Phases 2 and 3, Crow Wing County, Minnesota (Terrell and Gronhovd 2014)
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FIELD VISITS Fieldwork consisted of a pedestrian reconnaissance of the entirety of the study area in order to identify and document the landscape elements present and conduct limited archaeological testing. Fieldwork was conducted the week of June 2-6, 2014. All current condition photographs are Two Pines Resource Group unless otherwise cited.
CURRENT CONDITION ASSESSMENTS During the fieldwork portion of the project, each of the small and large scale features identified during the preparation of the National Register nomination was revisited and its current condition recorded through field notes and digital photographs. Newly identified resources were documented in the same fashion. For each feature the project team completed an evaluation form based on one used by the National Park Service. Items noted included, but were not limited to, information on materials, evidence for deterioration or erosion, and any other information pertinent to the preservation, treatment, and potential interpretation of the resource. This documentation will provide a base line for future assessments.
GEOGRAPHIC INFORMATION SYSTEM DATA The locations of features within the Milford Mine Historic District were recorded using a Trimble GeoXT GPS Unit. All the data was differentially corrected using a National Geodetic Survey (NGS) continuously operating reference station (CORS) data.
REPORT FORMAT A Cultural Landscape Report is typically a three-part document that provides the information necessary to make management decisions that preserve the integrity of a historic landscape (Page et al. 1998:36).
. Part 1 provides the property’s history, describes the existing condition of the landscape, and then, based on the information gathered, concludes with an analysis and evaluation of the historical integrity of the landscape and its characteristic features.
. Part 2 provides the preservation strategy for the long-term management of the cultural landscape based on its significance, existing condition, and use.
. Part 3 documents the implementation of the management plan, or aspects of it. Because this work is often not completed in tandem with Parts 1 and 2, the record(s) of treatment and its supporting documentation are usually provided in an appendix or addendum to the report.
The Cultural Landscape Report for the Milford Mine includes the following sections.
SITE HISTORY In this section of the report, the history of the Milford Mine is presented from its initial development through the present. The history of the property, not only provides a context for the evaluation of the mine’s features, but also documentation for future interpretation.
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EXISTING CONDITIONS The present appearance of the Milford Mine site is described in this section of the report. Included are descriptions of the current spatial organization, land use, circulation patterns, vegetation, and features of the property.
ANALYSIS AND EVALUATION The features of the Milford Mine are inventoried in this section of the report. In the course of documenting the historical and current conditions of each of the features, those that contribute to the historical significance of the historic district are identified.
PRESERVATION APPROACH Based on the results of the first sections of the Cultural Landscape Report, this portion of the document provides preservation strategies for the long-term management of the cultural landscape of the Milford Mine site.
SUMMARY OF FINDINGS The Milford Mine Historic District was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 2011 as a place of local significance under National Register Criterion A, in the areas of Industry and Labor for its association with the significant event of the Milford Mine disaster, as well as under Criterion D, because its associated archaeological features contain information important to our understanding of this period of mining on the Cuyuna Iron Range. The period of significance commences in 1912 with exploratory drilling on the mine site and ends with the closure of the mine in 1932. A significant date within this 20-year period is February 5, 1924 on which the Milford Mine disaster occurred.
The Milford Mine Historic District retains excellent integrity of location, design, setting, feeling, and association. Since the closure of the mine in 1932, the rural and isolated setting of the site has contributed to its excellent preservation. While secondary tree growth has encroached on the mine property, the mine site’s spatial organization, patterns of circulation, and structural elements can still be readily discerned in the remains of industrial and residential buildings, mine entries, tailings piles, borrow pits, roadways, rail grades and archaeological features encompassed by the historic district. Together, these resources provide significant evidence for mining technology on Minnesota’s Cuyuna Iron Range, as well as the nature of daily life at an early twentieth- century mine site. Furthermore, preserved within the Milford Mine Historic District are several features directly associated with the mine disaster including the mine entrance, the post-disaster spur grade, and the slough that resulted from the collapse and subsequent pumping out of the mine. Other preserved features that evoke the events of February 5, 1924, include the rail grade that Annie Tomac walked from Manganese to the mine to find that her husband had died in the cave-in and the foundations of the Dry House where the lockers of the victims were padlocked and placed under guard until their bodies were recovered (Aulie 1994:48, 63; Duluth Herald, 7 February 1924).
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CHARACTERISTICS AND FEATURES OF THE MILFORD MINE HISTORIC DISTRICT The cultural landscape study identified the following characteristics and features of the Milford Mine Historic District, which were present during its period of significance, as contributing to its historic significance. The active preservation of these characteristics and features is inherent to the continued protection of the Milford Mine’s historical significance.
. Natural Systems and Features (Geology, Milford Lake)
. Topography
. Spatial Organization
. Vegetation (Wetland, Woodlands, Cultivars)
. Structure and Building Remains
. Archaeological Features (21CW282)
. Circulation
o Soo Line Railroad Grade o Mine Spur Grade o Post-Disaster Spur Grade o Road to Manganese o Road to Wolford o Roads within Historic Core
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CHAPTER 2 . HISTORIC CONTEXT AND SITE HISTORY
The Milford Mine is part of the story of iron ore exploration and development in northern Minnesota. Based on its present-day appearance, it is difficult to imagine the landscape of this portion of the state prior to the iron ore industry. Mining and the iron industry unquestionably provided a large part of the impetus for creating towns, building roads, and bringing people to the heavily wooded and remote northern part of the state during the late 19th century. Iron deposits in Minnesota are concentrated in three separate areas, or “ranges,” the Vermilion, Mesabi, and Cuyuna (Figure 5). Although Michigan’s Upper Peninsula began shipping iron ore approximately three decades before Minnesota, once discovered, the Minnesota lodes quickly established a dominant position atop the iron-ore-production hierarchy.
FIGURE 5. MINNESOTA’S THREE IRON RANGES
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MINNESOTA IRON: DISCOVERY AND EXPLORATION Pierre Gaultier de Vanennes, the French explorer who established Fort St. Charles on the Lake of the Woods in the early 1700s, was the first European to record the presence of iron in northeastern Minnesota. He learned about the ore at a council at Fort Charles in 1734 with the Assiniboine and Cree after asking the native leaders about the possibility of iron ore in the area. Although he received a detailed description of the ore and its location, he did nothing but record its presence (Walker 1979:16).
It was not until 1821 that Minnesota iron was publicly discussed again. Dr. John McLoughlin, like de Vanennes, recorded the presence of ores, and also stated that he "never saw [iron] in any large quantity” (Walker 1979:16). Five years later, the Treaty of Fond du Lac was signed, granting the United States government the right to "search for and carry away, any metals or minerals from any part of [the Fond du Lac Ojibwe's] country," opening the door to mineral prospectors and investors (Kappler 1904:269).
More than two decades later, in 1849, Alexander Ramsey (the first governor of the Territory of Minnesota) asked the legislature to build a road from St. Paul to Lake Superior to exploit the region’s potential minerals. Although Ramsey was probably referring to the mineral regions in Michigan, and merely wanted to build a port on Lake Superior to provide access to Michigan's ores, this proposed road eventually facilitated the development of Minnesota's own mineral resources (Walker 1979:18).
About the same time that Ramsey asked the legislature to fund a road from St. Paul to Lake Superior, Joseph G. Norwood and Charles C. Whittlesey, under the direction of David Dale Owen, conducted two geological surveys; one in 1848 and the other in 1850. The United States Geological Survey’s publication of the results in 1852 was the first report definitively stating that iron existed in Minnesota (Walker 1979:16-17).
Although, the United States Geological Survey results pertaining to Minnesota's iron proved favorable, the report existed in relative obscurity and received little attention. In 1853, however, J. Wesley Bond wrote a guide to Minnesota and stated that copper, iron, and silver existed in large quantities in Minnesota's northern regions. This publication, unlike the 1852 United States Geological report, received a fair amount of attention, even though little action toward developing the region was taken (Walker 1979:18). One reason for the lack of development was that many Ojibwe people still lived in the area. An 1854 treaty signed at La Pointe opened the Lake Vermillion area to European settlement, spurring the interest of surveyors, geologists, and entrepreneurs (Kappler 1904:648-651).
In 1860, two years after Minnesota’s statehood, the state legislature ordered the appointment of two commissioners "to report on the geology of the state, and plan for a geological survey" (Merrill 1920:240). Governor Ramsey selected Charles L. Anderson and Thomas Clark to fill these positions. Anderson and Clark recommended that Minnesota appoint a geologist, not a politician, to the position of State Geologist, and that he conduct a scientific survey (Walker 1979:20). Unfortunately, these surveys went without funding due to "the financial burdens the young state had to bear . . . and the opposition of Governor Ramsey” (Merrill 1920:240).
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Two years later, the United States Congress passed the Homestead Act of 1862. Prior to this Act, individuals could buy 160 acres of land from the Federal government for $1.25 per acre. Although this land came cheap, the purchaser could not in turn sell the land for a profit (an action known as prospecting). The Homestead Act of 1862 changed this procedure, enabling settlers to obtain the land for merely the cost of some small fees, and the promise not to prospect.
On March 4, 1864 the legislature appropriated $2,000 for the geological survey of Minnesota's mineral lands around the north shore of Lake Superior. Governor Henry A. Swift, Ramsey's successor, appointed August H. Hanchett as Minnesota's first geologist with Thomas Clark as Hanchett's associate (Merrill 1920:240). The two men began surveying along Lake Superior's north shore but primarily gathered information on the physical features of the area with very little solid geological information. Soon "it became apparent that Dr. Hanchett was not intellectually and wholly devoted to the work" (Merrill 1920:241), so on March 2, 1865, the Minnesota legislature voted to allow the governor to replace Dr. Hanchett.
Governor Stephen Miller (Swift's successor) appointed Henry H. Eames to the position of State geologist. The same legislation that allowed the governor to replace Hanchett also described Eames' duties in detail (Merrill 1920:241-242).
SEC. 2 Such person [appointed as State geologist] shall, before entering upon his duties under the provisions of this act, take and subscribe an oath to diligently and faithfully discharge such duties to the best of his ability. And he shall proceed at as early a day as practicable to continue such survey under the direction of the governor. He shall make analyses of metal-bearing rocks that may be obtained during such survey, to the end that the commercial value thereof may be ascertained; and he shall report the same to the governor on or before the first day of January, A. D. 1866. He shall also make and report sectional maps showing the location of minerals examined and analyzed . . .
Approved March 2, 1865 Legislature of the State of Minnesota
H.H. Eames and his brother (R.E. Eames) conducted their work in northeastern Minnesota during the summers of 1865 and 1866. In the vicinity of Vermilion Lake, they recorded hematite deposits between 50 and 60 feet thick and varying between 65% and 80% pure, and they also believed that they discovered gold and silver (Merrill 1920:242; Walker 1979:21). When the men returned in October 1865, one inadvertently mentioned the possibility of gold in the Vermilion region, and launched the Minnesota gold rush. As prospectors flooded north, they quickly realized that no easy way of transporting men and machinery to Vermilion Lake existed. In September of 1865, gold prospectors took the first step in establishing year-round transportation by opening a sled road from Duluth to the Vermilion gold fields (Walker 1979:21).
As men continued to rush towards Minnesota's supposed gold, prospecting towns such as Winston began springing up around Lake Vermilion. In November 1865, 10 men under Joshua B. Culver began building an 80 mile road from Duluth to Lake Vermilion in an attempt to facilitate the flood of people heading into northern Minnesota. This road,
PAGE 13 MILFORD MINE NATIONAL REGISTER HISTORIC DISTRICT CULTURAL LANDSCAPE REPORT funded by both large mining companies and private citizens, was completed by the end of February 1866. However, the road could not be used year-round, so industry lobbied the state legislature to fund a permanent, all-weather road. The legislature agreed to the request and appropriated $10,000 for the road's construction. George Riley Stuntz was hired to upgrade and extend the existing road into northeastern and north-central Minnesota (Walker 1979:22).
George Riley Stuntz, the first permanent resident of Duluth, had studied surveying and worked in that trade since at least the middle 1830s. In 1847 he was elected the Grant County, Wisconsin surveyor and sheriff, and in 1852 he came to the western end of Lake Superior as a Federal surveyor. Several years later Stuntz encountered the Vermilion range's iron ore. In 1863 the blacksmith on the Bois Fort Reservation, Albert Posey, brought Stuntz some ore samples the Indians had given him. Stuntz knew the ores were of very high quality, but did not realize they came from northeastern Minnesota. Instead, he assumed the Indians had acquired the ores through trade, and that they originated in the Marquette regions of Michigan (Reynolds 1989a:326-327).
In 1865, Stuntz himself tried his hand at prospecting during the Minnesota gold rush. While looking for gold, he encountered iron ore similar to that Posey had brought him years earlier. Stuntz quickly realized that Minnesota held incredible mineralogical potential. As soon as Stuntz returned from his prospecting venture, he attempted to interest investors in the Vermilion region, but to no avail. One problem frequently mentioned by potential investors was that no year-round road existed, making development in the region financially risky (Walker 1979:24).
In 1866 Thomas Clark and George Stuntz cut a trail to Lake Vermilion, and in July 1869 Stuntz, with 10 men to assist him, set out to build the long-awaited year-round road. This road was to extend from Duluth to the Bois Fort Reservation but by the end of the season the men had only cut a 12-foot wide path from Duluth to Lake Vermilion, and surveyed from Lake Vermilion to the Bois Fort Reservation (Walker 1979:22). Unfortunately, however, by the time Stuntz finished the road, the Minnesota legislature was refusing to appropriate any more money towards further geological surveys. The lack of political will to fund mineralogical exploration, coupled with the paltry amounts of gold recovered from northern Minnesota ended the gold rush (Merrill 1920). Although little to no mineral wealth came from the gold rush, it facilitated the opening of the only year-round road into northeastern Minnesota, and interested George R. Stuntz in the area's iron.
Between 1865 and 1875 Stuntz made several trips to Lake Vermilion to sample the ore. Although Stuntz continued to have difficulty in finding outside investors, he still believed that Minnesota could develop a strong iron industry. Finally Stuntz interested a man named George C. Stone. Stone had started out as the owner of a mercantile business in St. Louis, Missouri and Muscatine, Iowa. His businesses prospered, and he eventually expanded into banking. However, in 1861, Stone's investors pulled their money, after the Civil War attack on Fort Sumter, leaving Stone bankrupt. For the next eight years he and his family moved from Muscatine to Chicago, New York City, Philadelphia, and finally, in 1869, they landed in Duluth where Stone acted as assistant to the banker Jay Cooke's agent, George B. Sargent (Walker 1979:24).
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Once in Duluth, Sargent and Stone opened the town's first bank and set about financing Cooke's Lake Superior and Mississippi Railroad from St. Paul to Lake Superior, and his Northern Pacific Railroad from Duluth to the west. Cooke believed that Duluth should become an important port city and invested much time and capital in this belief by financing railroads. Although Cooke also believed in Minnesota's potential iron industry, he could not fathom developing the area without first having a good transportation system in place (Walker 1979:25).
Duluth continued to grow, and in 1871 a shipping canal was opened, improving the Duluth harbor. In the long run, Cooke was probably correct in funding the railroads before mining, but his investments were not paying off as he had hoped. In 1873 Jay Cooke & Company collapsed. Cooke's collapse not only caused Stone to lose almost everything for a second time, but also caused a six-year depression. At this point, in 1874, Stone began seeking out investors interested in developing Minnesota's iron resources. Over the following several months Stone approached numerous industrialists but met with little success. Finally, in 1875 Stone went to one of Cooke's former investors, Charlemagne Tower (Walker 1979:26).
In 1871, Tower had acquired a considerable amount of personal wealth and decided to sell his coal interests in order to manage his personal finances full-time as well as serve on the boards of several companies in which he held interest. Between 1871 and 1872, Tower invested in Jay Cooke’s Northern Pacific Railroad, as well as serving as a director for the railroad until 1879. Tower agreed with Cooke’s attempts to establish Duluth as a major city, build a railroad west, and exploit Lake Superior’s iron region (Walker 1979:27). Even after Cooke’s personal financial crash, Tower believed that his investment in the railroad would eventually see a return.
In April of 1875, Stone approached Tower and asked him to invest in opening the first of Minnesota’s iron ranges. Tower, with his former partner Samuel Munson, agreed to explore the potential of the iron deposits in northern Minnesota (Walker 1979:27). The pair hired Stone as the general manager, George Stuntz as the prospector and surveyor, Albert Chester as the chief geologist, and Richard Lee (Charlemagne Tower's son-in- law) as Chester's assistant for the expedition (Lake Superior News 1882).
In 1872, the United States legislature passed a law that greatly impacted Minnesota’s iron industry. The initial 1872 law stated that mining lands could only be acquired from the Federal government for $2.50 per acre for placer mines, and for $5 per acre for lode mines (Gates 1968:720, 723). As originally written, this law would have dramatically increased the cost of acquiring lands in Minnesota’s Lake Superior region. However, in 1873, Zachariah Chandler forced legislation that exempted Minnesota, Michigan, and Wisconsin from the set land prices. This enabled companies mining in those states to buy land in the same manner as one acquired timber or agricultural lands: through pre- emption, homestead, or cash. This exemption coupled with the temptation of extremely cheap land under the Homestead Act of 1862 caused many mining companies to abuse these well-intentioned laws (Walker 1979:32).
Shortly after this legislation passed, on July 13, 1875, Chester, Lee, Stuntz, and five others left Duluth with orders to examine the ores of both the Vermilion and Mesabi iron ranges. Chester spent the first month of the expedition examining the ores of the Mesabi Range (Walker 1979:28). Unfortunately, Chester only explored the eastern edge of the
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Mesabi Range which contains poor quality ore. This low quality caused Chester to recommend that Tower abandon the Mesabi Range as a potential development site (Reynolds 1989b:197; Walker 1979:30).
From the Mesabi Range, Chester moved east to the Vermilion Range where he located the hard ore, hematite. The team took their samples of Mesabi and Vermilion ores and returned to Duluth in the fall of 1875. Although the Mesabi ores tested poorly, those from the Vermilion range proved quite rich, containing very little phosphorus and an iron content as high as 69.69% pure (Minnesota Iron Company 1883).
Despite the results of the ore tests, Tower and Munson did not begin acquiring lands in northeastern Minnesota for several years, primarily due to an economic depression and very low iron prices. In 1879 and 1880, Tower and Munson sent Chester back to the Vermilion Range to continue testing ore qualities (Reynolds 1989b:197). Finally, in 1880 the pair began purchasing lands in northeastern Minnesota (Walker 1979:32).
THE VERMILION RANGE In 1882, Tower formed the Minnesota Iron Company, acquired large tracks of land, and built the Duluth and Iron Range Railroad from Agate Bay near modern-day Two Harbors to pursue and develop the iron resources on the Vermilion Iron Range (Minnesota Iron Company 1882a; 1882b; Tumberg 2012). On July 31st, 1884, after months of anticipation, the Duluth and Iron Range Railroad reached the Vermilion Range’s first mine, the Soudan Mine (Figure 6). The following day the first shipment of Minnesota iron ore, totaling 220 tons, left the Soudan Mine (Soudan Mine Collection 1884). The Soudan ore as well as ores from the other Vermilion Range mines were hauled by railroad to Agate Bay at Two Harbors, Minnesota, where they were loaded onto ore ships and hauled to processing centers such as Cleveland and Pittsburgh (Walker 1979:61; Tumberg 2012).
FIGURE 6. SOUDAN MINE, NUMBER 8 SHAFT, C. 1900 (MINNESOTA HISTORICAL SOCIETY)
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Within a several years other mines were fully operational on the Vermilion Range. The Chandler Mine located near Ely, Minnesota began operating in 1888, the Pioneer Mine in 1889, the Zenith Mine in 1892, and the Savoy and Sibley Mines in 1899 (Walker 1979:69-70). By 1890, approximately 34 separate mine workings were to at least some degree successful (MGL & Associates 1982:110-136).
Production and demand ebbed and flowed depending on the national and international economic and political scene. Demand for ore increased dramatically during World War II, however once the war and national crisis subsided in 1945, the steel industry faced a future riddled with strikes and work stoppages.
The next several years alternated between stable and troubled strike years. Strikes occurred primarily over wages and insurance benefits. Despite the long, frequently unsavory strikes, workers eventually brought the average weekly wages up to $90.66. Then, in 1959, the longest strike in the history of the United Steel Workers of America occurred, lasting 116 days, and affecting 540,00 union members. The United Steel Workers of America were disputing whether the steel industry could “arbitrarily eliminate past working practices and unilaterally change working conditions” (United Steel Workers of America 2001).
Prior to 1959, the striking tactic typically benefited the union members, however in 1959 foreign competition changed the tide of labor negotiations. “[D]uring and after the long strike in 1959 customers began to import steel from Germany, England, France and other European producers, and from Japan. Although there were no more strikes during the 1960s, even the threat damaged American steelworkers in the marketplace” (United Steel Workers of America 2001).
Although vast quantities of high quality hematite remained in the Vermilion Range, the majority of the Vermilion ore required shaft mining to access it. This form of mining requires considerably more capital than open-pit mining, making the finished product more expensive. The combined effects of strikes, increasing foreign competition, and high production costs were reducing sales of Vermilion Range ore. Additionally, new methods of processing iron ore were beginning to emerge, such as the Basic Oxygen Steelmaking Process (Hogan 1971).
The Basic Oxygen Steelmaking Process (BOSP) began to have an impact on the iron and steel industry in the mid-1950s when a total of 3% of US steel was produced using this method. However, the BOSP did not have a significant impact on steelmaking until over a decade later. In 1960, the BOSP produced a mere 3.4% of the United States’ steel, and by 1965 use of the BOSP had risen only to 17.4% (Hogan 1971:1544; Lynn 1994:32). Although the BOSP had the potential to eventually overtake other steelmaking processes, the introduction of taconite processing had an earlier significant impact on the Vermilion Range.
In 1960 taconite had been introduced to the iron and steel industry as a viable option to traditional methods of steelmaking. In Minnesota, taconite, primarily from the Mesabi Range, was cheaper to mine than the Vermilion’s hard hematite for two reasons. First, taconite was softer than hematite and thus easier to extract from the earth, and second, taconite was near the surface and thus could be mined from open pits, as opposed to the deep veins of Vermilion hematite that required the use of shaft mining.
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Researchers had known for some time that one potential alternative to the Vermilion’s hard, pure iron ore came in the form of taconite, but prior to 1960, a viable means of processing the soft, low-grade ore had not been found. For several years, companies had experimented with taconite with inconclusive results, but in 1960, the Bellefonte Furnace at Middleton, Ohio smelted only taconite for 30 days. The results proved devastating to many Vermilion mines. As reported by Thomas M. Rohan in the September publication of Iron Age "a furnace rated at about 1500 tons per day . . . has achieved daily production records of 2700 to 2800 tons of pig iron yield," doubling the furnace's usual capacity (Rohan in Davis 1964:190). Thus, the steel industry discovered a cheap alternative to the Vermilion Range’s hematite.
Although the Vermilion Range ceased production before its ore was exhausted, the range significantly impacted Minnesota’s and the nation’s iron industry, shipping 84,487,601 tons of ore between 1884 and 1950 (Walker 1979:258).
THE MESABI RANGE The Mesabi Range is Minnesota’s largest, encompassing approximately 400 square miles. Mesabi ore is lower quality than the hard, pure hematite of the Vermilion Range. It tends to be powdery, soft, and runs in horizontal beds ranging from a few inches to several hundred feet thick (Reynolds 1989b). The horizontal ore deposits are located beneath ten to 200 feet of glacial till which must be removed before the ore can be mined (Walker 1979:85).
Although investors were aware of the existence of the Mesabi Range, active development did not occur until after the Vermilion Range was established. This was probably at least partially due to the oversight that occurred during the 1875 expedition funded by Charlemagne Tower, during which only tested the poor quality ore located along the eastern edge of the Mesabi Range when gathering their samples. Thus, Tower abandoned plans to develop the Mesabi Range and focus on the Vermilion Range (Minnesota Iron Company 1883).
Despite Tower’s abandonment of the range, a group of brothers named Merritt remained set on developing the Mesabi. The Merritts were primarily responsible for the discovery, promotion, and development of the eastern Mesabi Range and in 1890 they formed the Mountain Iron Company to achieve these goals. The Merritts shipped the first Mesabi Range ore from the Mountain Iron Mine, located near the town of Mountain Iron, in 1892 (Walker 1979:89; Reynolds 1989b). They subsequently opened a second mine called the Biwabik and established the settlement of Biwabik, about two miles east of Mountain Iron. By 1897, the towns of Biwabik and McKinley (four miles southwest of Biwabik) served nine mines (Walker 1979:90-94).
In addition to the ongoing development of the eastern Mesabi Range, investors such as Frank Hibbing were examining the potential of the western Mesabi lands. Hibbing formed the Lake Superior Iron Company and began operations at three separate locations: the Hull, Rust, and Mahoning Mines (Figure 7). These three originally separate mines eventually combined, becoming the largest, most productive open pit mine in the world (Walker 1979:95). The Hull-Rust-Mahoning Mine was listed as a National Historic Landmark in 1966.
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FIGURE 7. THE HULL MINE ON THE MESABI RANGE, 1908
(MINNESOTA HISTORICAL SOCIETY)
During the late 1800s and early 1900s, mines and settlements were established across the Mesabi Range, eventually making it Minnesota’s most prolific iron ore producer. By 1901, the Mesabi Range’s four largest mines (the Fayal, Mountain Iron, Adams, and Mahoning) shipped more iron ore than the entire Menominee Range in Michigan, at a time when the Menominee was considered the Mesabi’s closest rival (Walker 1979:230). The Fayal Mine alone nearly matched the entire iron ore output of the Vermilion Range (Walker 1979:230).
Like the Vermilion Range, the Mesabi also had highs and lows, and were significantly impacted by national and international economics and politics. Despite its fluctuations in production, the Mesabi Range shipped 1,718,766,230 tons of ore between 1892 and 1950, (Walker 1979:258). The Mesabi Range is the only producing range in Minnesota today.
THE CUYUNA RANGE The Cuyuna Range is the smallest and most assuredly the least known of Minnesota’s three ranges (cf. Minnesota Historical Records Survey Project [MHRSP] 1940). It is located south-southwest of the Mesabi Range, and west of Duluth between Brainerd and Aitkin, where the Crow Wing and Mississippi Rivers converge. It extends approximately 68 miles from southwest to northeast, and varies from less than a mile to just over nine miles wide (Walker 1979:246). The Range is subdivided into the South Range – an ore formation stretching northeast from Brainerd towards Deerwood; and the North Range – made up of a significant formation from Riverton on the west to Cuyuna on the east, as well as a smaller deposit to the north near the communities of Manganese and Wolford (Walker 1979:251). Hundreds of lakes in the Cuyuna Range vicinity make the ore somewhat difficult to find, access, and mine (Walker 1979:246). Ore within the Cuyuna Range varied significantly, ranging from hard, 67% pure hematite, to soft and sandy with a low iron content. Much of it has a very high manganese content,
PAGE 19 MILFORD MINE NATIONAL REGISTER HISTORIC DISTRICT CULTURAL LANDSCAPE REPORT and early-20th century mining officials generally considered it lower quality than ores from the Vermilion or Mesabi. Cuyuna ore lies buried 14 to 300 feet below a layer of glacial till.
The Cuyuna Range developed a bit differently than the Vermilion and Mesabi Ranges, primarily because the area had been settled long before mining activities began (Wirth 1937:27). This meant that exploratory drilling often took place in previously developed areas, and in at least one instance, this led to the circumstances of a mineshaft being placed literally in the middle of an existing farmstead (Figure 8). The Cuyuna Range area included permanent and semi-permanent fur-trading settlements that dated to the 18th century, and it had been considered a fairly safe place for EuroAmerican settlement since the construction of Fort Ripley in 1849-1850.
Although the area was settled early, and speculators suspected that ore existed in the vicinity of the Cuyuna Range since land surveyors had documented magnetic deflections in 1859, development of the iron resources did not take place until the early 1900s. It was a prospector named Cuyler Adams who became the primary force behind the recording and development of the Cuyuna Range. During Adams’ travels through the region, he noticed dips and fluctuations in his compass readings that he attributed to iron ore deposits. Based on this hunch, Adams began mapping the magnetic fluctuations. After several years of studying the Cuyuna area, in 1903, Adams, along with William White and William McGonagle formed the Orelands Mining Company in an attempt to develop the suspected iron resources (Walker 1979:249).
FIGURE 8. STEAM-POWERED EXPLORATORY DRILL
(MINNESOTA HISTORICAL SOCIETY) In 1905, the first shaft on the Cuyuna Range was sunk through 120 feet of glacial till. Unfortunately, the mine quickly filled with water and
PAGE 20 MILFORD MINE NATIONAL REGISTER HISTORIC DISTRICT CULTURAL LANDSCAPE REPORT the venture was abandoned (Walker 1979:252). In 1906, investors attempted to sink another shaft, but the same problem occurred. Finally, Adams and White sought outside backers, and in 1907 interested the Rogers, Brown Ore Company from Buffalo, New York. This venture was successful and the first mine on the Cuyuna Range, the Kennedy mine, began stockpiling ore in 1908 (Walker 1979:252).
In addition to the ore and the settlement of the Cuyuna Range differing from the Vermilion and Mesabi Ranges, so too did the technologies employed. Because most of the Cuyuna mines were shaft mines located in areas with very high water tables, the shafts were very difficult and potentially dangerous to sink. Frequently, specialized equipment and highly skilled workers called “sand hogs” were employed to dig the shafts under pressurized conditions to keep the water out until pumps could be installed. Once the shafts were dug, and mining operation began, the miners frequently had to work in very uncomfortable conditions, including cold, knee-high water.
The shaft mining process used at Cuyuna Range mines was describe in the Milford Mine’s NRHP nomination (Terrell 2010) which stated,
“Underground mining on the Cuyuna used the same process employed in most underground mining of soft ores in Minnesota. Once exploratory drilling had identified the location and depth of the ore body, a vertical shaft was excavated of sufficient depth to access the ore. The headframe, which was constructed over the mine entrance, supported the hoist that raised and lowered the “cage” that transported miners and the “skip” that carried the mined ore. Connected to the shaft were “drifts,” or horizontal passageways, that led away from the shaft and into the ore body. Miners were lowered in the cage or used ladders in the shaft to reach the drift entrance. Mining took place in “rooms,” or excavation areas, off the drift. Miners, who worked in pairs or “gangs,” were assigned to these rooms, and, because of this, the rooms were also referred to as “contracts.” Once the ore within a room had been mined out, the timbers supporting the room were blasted, and the room collapsed. Blasting down of rooms, which occurred at the end of shifts, kept the overburden close to the ore body and made it possible for miners to safely remove the ore on the next level below (Minnesota Department of Labor and Industry [MDLI] – Report 1924:1). Rooms that “hung up,” or did not fully collapse and fill in, were dangerous because they could eventually collapse unexpectedly and injure miners (MDLI – Classification of Testimony 1924:5). After blasts, observations were made of the ground surface above the mine for potential problems (MLDI – Classification of Testimony 1924:9). While caved rooms would occasionally break through to the surface as the earth settled, these events were not of particular concern unless they created hazards for the miners below (MDLI – Classification of Testimony 1924:9).”
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FIGURE 9. OPEN PIT MINING WITH A STEAM SHOVEL NEAR VIRGINIA, MINNESOTA
(MINNESOTA HISTORICAL SOCIETY)
As the range developed, many Cuyuna mines shifted to open pit techniques (Walker 1979:255), using steam shovels as well as blasting loose the ore using hydraulic waterpower (Figure 9). As mines and mining techniques were established on the Cuyuna Range, so were settlements. The town of Cuyuna was platted in 1908, Crosby was platted in 1909, and Ironton was platted in 1910 (Walker 1979:253-4).
As people moved to the Cuyuna Range and the iron ore production increased, it became imperative that a railroad be built to serve the mining district. It was speculated at the time, that the lack of adequate transportation increased production costs dramatically. For example, “[it] cost as much to get coal [four miles] from Deerwood to the Kennedy Mine as it did to bring the fuel from Pittsburg to Deerwood” (Walker 1979:253). Thus, in 1910, the Cuyuna Iron Range Railroad extended its tracks from Deerwood, to Cuyuna, Crosby, and Ironton, allowing the first shipment of stockpiled ore to leave the Kennedy mine in 1911 (Walker 1979:253). Adams then sold the line to the Minneapolis, St. Paul and Sault Ste. Marie Railway Company (Soo Line) (Bay Lake 2014). As more mines opened, additional rail lines were needed. Cuyler Adams formed the Cuyuna Northern Railroad and built lines which were later purchased by Northern Pacific Railroad in 1914 (Schmidt et al. 2007:E134).
After working through the challenges the Cuyuna Range presented, mining operations began to flourish. In 1919 mines on the Cuyuna Range hit their peak employment of 2,747 men, and in 1921 the range hit its peak number of 38 operating mines (Bay Lake 2014). The undoing of the Cuyuna was the Great Depression and a corresponding decrease in demand for manganese ore. The result was the closure of many of the mines of the Cuyuna Range during the early 1930s (Terrell 2010). Between 1911 and the Cuyuna’s closure, the range shipped 69,897,814 tons of ore (Walker 1979:258).
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POPULATING THE IRON RANGES Minnesota’s iron companies not only put large amounts of capital into equipping the mines, they also invested in manning the mines by importing thousands of workers from around the world (Figure 10). Because Minnesota’s iron ranges are in relatively remote areas and the mines frequently offered un-skilled, low-paying jobs, the ranges suffered from a general labor shortage. In an attempt to draw workers to some of Minnesota’s remotest regions, mining companies platted townsites which included fraternal, labor, and ethnic halls, and churches to provide a social and spiritual community for workers. “Mine companies built offices, hospitals, clubhouses, shops and other facilities throughout the ranges in order to attract and maintain their work force. Using property taxes collected from the mining companies, the towns of the ranges built impressive public buildings and service facilities” (Terrell 2010).
Fortunately for the mine owners, immigrants were often willing to live in remote regions and take un-skilled jobs in exchange for steady pay. Mining companies also drew immigrants to Minnesota by coercing the unsuspecting and desperate to work as strikebreakers (United States Immigration Commission 1911:306).
Immigrants came to the young Minnesota mines in three distinct waves. Those waves have been referred to as old immigration, early new immigration, and late new immigration (Steel 19xx). Minnesota’s wave of old immigration refers to individuals who came to the United States during the late 1800s. The Vermilion Range received most of this first immigrant wave, although the Mesabi Range also became home at least temporarily to some individuals that are considered part of old immigration.
FIGURE 10. GROUP OF MINERS NEAR IRONTON, MINNESOTA, C. 1925
(MINNESOTA HISTORICAL SOCIETY)
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One of the first groups to arrive in Minnesota as part of old immigration consisted of miners from Cornwall's dry, hard rock mines. Since the majority of Minnesota’s mines were in soft rock, where working conditions were cold, wet, and uncomfortable, most of the Cornish left Minnesota rather quickly and headed west in search of more favorable working conditions (Steel 19xx). A number of Canadians also arrived in Minnesota as part of old immigration and although they did some work in the mines, they preferred the lumber industry and tended to pick up seasonal mining work only when logging was slow. Finally, Swedes and Norwegians began arriving in Minnesota at the end of the 19th century. They too left mining fairly quickly as pressure from the next wave (early new immigration), essentially pushed them west (United States Census Office 1897, 1901).
Minnesota’s early new immigration began towards the end of the 19th century and continued until about 1905. It consisted of Slovenians (Croatians, Serbians, and Hungarians), northern Italians, and Finns. (Steel n.d.). This group settled on both the Vermilion and Mesabi Ranges and relatively quickly caused a shift in the ethnic composition of Minnesota's iron ranges (Steel 19xx; n.d.).
As the early new immigrants came to Minnesota, they built social halls, maintained their ethnic identities and traditions, and kept up-to-date on national issues by subscribing to foreign language papers. The group most active in building networks and maintaining an ethnic identity were the Finns, who poured into the state and rapidly became the largest single ethnicity employed in Minnesota's mines (United States Census Office 1901).
Although Finns possessed desirable skills, they were often considered defiant. Finns tended to separate themselves from other ethnic groups by living in rural settings away from the mines; being slow to learn English; believing in the Temperance (anti-alcohol) movement; and actively promoting Socialism (Steel 19xx; Sevander 1992).
The Finns’ social and political views began affecting Minnesota’s mines around 1905, and in the summer of 1907 the Western Federation of Miners, predominantly composed of Finns embracing socialist ideals, organized a strike (Steel n.d.). Following the Western Federation of Miners' strike, the Finns were blacklisted, even if they had actively denounced the strike.
With the “loss” of the Finnish labor group, Minnesota’s mines began to employ people from the second wave of new immigration. This group, composed of Poles, Bulgarians, Hungarians, Russians, Romanians, Montenegrins, Serbians, and Greeks, differed from the previous two groups in that they rarely had a support network in Minnesota to receive them (Berman 1963:5). Due to the lack of a support network and economic fluctuations in the iron industry, the second wave of new immigrants became increasingly transient as more mines opened throughout the country. For the most part, this wave of immigrants worked as seasonal unskilled labor in the mines, often gravitating toward low-skilled jobs in the Mesabi and Cuyuna Ranges’ open pit mines.
MILFORD MINE
EXPLORATION AND DEVELOPMENT OF THE IDA MAE/ MILFORD MINE, 1912-1924 The Milford Mine is located in the northernmost portion of the Cuyuna Range. The mine property was owned by George H. Crosby’s Whitmarsh Mining Company and the Messaba Cuyuna Iron Land Company; however, initial mining operations were
PAGE 24 MILFORD MINE NATIONAL REGISTER HISTORIC DISTRICT CULTURAL LANDSCAPE REPORT undertaken by E.T. Merritt’s Cuyuna-Minneapolis Iron Company, through a lease agreement with Whitmarsh (Aulie 1994:23; Dunbar 1919; Skillings’ Mining Review, 4 Feb 1922:11). During this period of development, the mine was known as the Ida Mae or Ida May, after Merritt’s wife (Aulie 1994:20; Duluth Herald, February 7, 1924; Hansen 1976; Minnesota Historical Records Survey Project [MHRSP] 1940:114; Weed 1922:945).
Exploratory drilling at the Ida Mae began in 1912 and continued through 1917 (Aulie 1994:22). In 1918, the first shaft was sunk, and underground development began (MDLI 1924:1). That year, 4,917 tons of ore were shipped from the mine to be followed by just 270 tons in 1919 (Skillings’ Mining Review, 2 Feb 1919:5; 4 Sept 1920:7). While the Ida Mae was producing at a rate of 140 tons per day and continued to stockpile ore during the winter of 1919-1920, the Cuyuna-Minneapolis Iron Company did not meet with success and went into receivership (Skillings’ Mining Review, 22 Jan 1921:9). Operations ceased in May of 1920 and the pumps were pulled in July of that year, which allowed the workings to flood with water (Ibid.). The mine’s stockpile of over 20,000 tons was sold to Coates & Tweed and its removal in 1920 constituted the largest shipment of ore from the Ida Mae (Skillings’ Mining Review, 4 Sept 1920:7).
In 1921, the Whitmarsh Mining Company took over the lease and operations of the idled mine, pumped out the water and re-opened it in 1922 as the Milford Mine (named for Crosby’s mother’s hometown of Milford, Connecticut) (Aulie 1994:21, 23). By that time, the mine was completely outfitted with a hoist, air compressors, and electric motor generators (Aulie 1994:20, 23). A “location” of approximately 12 shacks for miner’s families was present along a single street immediately south of the mine complex (The Deerwood Enterprise, 8 Feb 1924) (Figure 11). To the west, and separated by a wetland from the main mine complex, was a large rooming house for single men. In 1924, the mine employed about 115 men (The Deerwood Enterprise, 8 Feb 1924; Duluth Herald, 7 Feb 1924). During the first full year of the Milford Mine’s operations (1923), the mine yielded 76,301 tons of ore (MDLI 1924:1). During the winter of 1923-24, prior to the Milford Mine disaster, the mine stockpiled an additional 40,000 tons of ore (MDLI 1924:1).
THE MILFORD MINE DISASTER: FEBRUARY 5, 1924 At 3:45 on the afternoon of February 5, 1924, the greatest disaster in the history of Minnesota ore mining occurred. Water from an adjacent lake broke through one of the underground workings and flooded the mine, drowning 41 men in less than 15 minutes. Men underground at the time included miners from a variety of countries including Finland, Russia, Yugoslavia, Norway, and Sweden. Among them, were the mine captain, who was giving a visiting mine engineer a tour, and a father and son, who had recently started working together at the mine (Pettersen 2006b:13).
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FIGURE 11. MILFORD MINE AND WORKERS’ HOUSING IN 1924, VIEW TO NORTH
(MINNESOTA HISTORICAL SOCIETY)
The son, Frank Hvratin, was only 14 years old and one of the first miners to realize there was a problem. It was nearly the end of their shift when there was a blast of cold, damp air and the roar of water. One survivor described it as “a rumble like a thousand automobiles roaring down a distant road” (Pioneer Press, 6 Feb 1924). Young Frank was working on the 175-foot level, dumping ore down the raise to the 200-foot level so it could be hoisted to the surface. A blast of wind ripped through the mine and Hvratin called to his partner, veteran miner Harry Hosford, that water could be seen rushing through the 200-foot level. The two men immediately knew what was happening and started running for the ladder (Crosby Courier, 16 May 1924).
As they ran Hvratin yelled “the lake is coming in” to the other men they encountered, but only a few heeded his calls (Pettersen 2006a). At the ladder, Hosford and Hvratin met Emil Kainu and Matt Kangas. Kainu had been by the pump shaft in the lowest level of the mine and Kangas had been working alone, some distance away. When the water broke through, the wind it created knocked Kangas down and blew out his lamp. As he attempted to re-light the lamp, he heard the rush of water and started running and stumbling through the dark tunnel (Crosby Courier, 16 May 1924; Pettersen 2006a:11- 13).
Kainu, Kangas, Hvratin, and Hosford started up the ladder in the pump shaft. The pump shaft ladder was the only ladder between the lower levels of the mine and the main shaft ladder at the 135-foot level, which led to the surface (Figure 12). At the top of the pump shaft ladder, the men raced to the main shaft and started up the only ladder that led to the surface. By the time Matt Kangas reached the ladder to the surface, he was “all in.” Hvratin “jumped between the older miner’s legs and boosted Kangas up – rung-by-rung – supporting him on his shoulders” (Pettersen2006a:13). By the time the men reached the surface, Harry Hosford was waist deep in water and mud (Pettersen 2006a:13; Crosby Courier, 16 May 1924).
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FIGURE 12. NEWSPAPER ILLUSTRATION OF THE MILFORD MINE AT THE TIME OF THE DISASTER
(THE MINNEAPOLIS LABOR REVIEW, 25 APRIL 1924)
The scene on the surface was chaotic. As men rushed to help the miners emerging from the shaft, the hoistman lowered the cage (which had been at top of the shaft), in the hopes of rescuing more men. When the cage returned to the surface, however, it was merely wet and mud-covered. Clinton Harris, who was minding the mine’s skip, was also sounding the mine’s warning whistle. Harris had probably been warned early enough to save himself, but had either tied the mine’s warning whistle to himself so it would continue to blast, or had become entangled in the cord. Either way, the whistle blared for hours until engineers could disconnect it (Pettersen 2006a:13).
An employee of the mine who happened to be aboveground the day of disaster described the scene (Gustafson 1982:40):
“As we passed the four small houses on the mine location, we heard a woman scream and saw her tearing her hair. It was Mrs. Crellin, the mine captain’s wife, running out of the miners’ change house. We stopped stunned.
In the dry (change house) sat seven dejected men, those who had been close to the bottom of the 200-foot deep shaft when they saw water gushing down the main drift. They had scrambled up the series of ladders in the manway, the last with water at their knees.
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Frank and I ran to the shaft to measure how close the water was to the surface. By then others had gathered; as we looked at the forty-foot mark on the tape, we all realized that our forty-one coworkers had drowned… Some of the women rolled in the snow as they moaned in their grief…The saddest moment of this occasion [was a] little boy, sensing that things of importance had occurred and that his father was involved, looked up at me and said proudly, ‘My daddy is down there too.’ Tears again come to my eyes as I write of this experience.”
AFTERMATH OF THE DISASTER AND RECOVERY EFFORTS Recovery operations began almost immediately. The railroad spur was extended to the edge of Foley Lake to facilitate the installation of pumps and de-watering equipment donated by other Cuyuna, Vermilion, and Mesabi Range mines (Gustafson 1982:40). Before the mine could be de-watered and recovery efforts started, the adjacent lake had to be emptied. Pumps placed in Foley Lake moved the water about ¼-mile north through two 12-inch pipes to Island Lake, which drained into the Mississippi River (Crosby Courier, 15 Feb 1924).
In addition to pumping out the water, the mud and muck also had to be removed from the lake and mine. A sand sucker brought in from the Hillcrest Mine, was added to the pumps already in place in Foley Lake (Crosby Courier, 8 Feb 1924). The sand sucker rested on four pipes that were “driven down to hardpan” (Crosby Courier, 22 Feb 1924). As water, sand, and muck were removed from the bottom of the lake and the mine, the sand sucker was lowered. The pumps and sand sucker were operated around the clock. Within two weeks, the water in lake was only four feet deep, and the water in the mine had fallen 123 feet. At this point, water had to be pumped back into the lake so that the sand sucker could continue to remove mud (MHRSP 1940:81). As the water levels fell, fish, turtles, and other water-life were exposed. County officials harvested the fish and distributed them to the miners’ families for food (Crosby Courier, 29 Feb 1924).
By the middle of March, the lake was dry and the water in the mine was down to the first level (MHRSP 1940:81; Crosby Courier, 14 Mar 1924). Recovery operations began at the end of March, and ran 24 hours a day with three teams of men working 8-hour shifts. The recovery work was unsettling and dangerous (Gustafson 1892:42).
“The air underground had the smell of death, not only from the bodies left to be found, but also of the rotting fish and frogs. We could always tell when we were getting close to a body, and then we would start spraying formaldehyde that the undertakers furnished us. As the water from the hose washed away the mud, often the first evidence of a man was the grotesque white face, swelled to look like a rag doll, peering out of the black muck. The body would be placed on a wire stretcher, carried to the shaft, and hoisted to the surface.”
At the surface, morticians tended to the body at a temporary morgue set up at the collar of the shaft. They washed the body, cut away clothes, and searched pockets for personal items to aid in identification (Gustafson 1982: 41).
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The first two men located were Minor Graves and Valentine Cole. Searchers found them on the 135-foot level, where they had been working the day of the disaster. They were in a “leaning position behind a car with their arms wrapped around each other and a timber across them” (Crosby Courier, 21 Mar 1924). Cole had a broken jaw, possibly from the timber lying across the men. He was a husband, father to two children, and a farmer who only worked in the mines during the winter. Graves was more difficult to identify. He was 48 years old and lived in Manganese with his wife and seven children (Crosby Courier, 21 Mar 1924). Some of the men received local burials, while the remains of others were sent to further locations for funeral services, depending on the family’s wishes (Gustafson 1982:42).
Although the mine workings were in generally good condition after the disaster, rescue workers were always wary of pockets of water and muck breaking loose and inundating the mine again. A situation such as this occurred in May, when a team of workers attempted to recover the remains of Victor Ketola. Some dammed up water and mud broke free and forced the rescue crew back. The captain fell during the retreat and was engulfed in mud. Fortunately, his crew managed to pull him free and the team made it to safety (Crosby Courier, 16 May 1924).
It took nine months to recover the bodies of all the men who died in the disaster. On November 4, 1924, the body of Arvid Lahti was the last recovered. In all, the 41 dead miners left behind 31 wives and 88 children. Several of the children never met their fathers because they were not born until after the tragedy (Hansen 1976). Some of the victims’ families left the area immediately, while others stayed in the community. For example, the February 15, 1924 issue of the Crosby Courier contains an ad from newlywed Mrs. Earl Belden stating that she would sell all her belongings on Tuesday February 18th. Her husband was 28 years old when he died.
All wives and children received compensation from the Industrial Commission, thanks to the Workers Compensation law passed in 1913. Under this law, each wife was to receive weekly payments based on a percentage of her husband’s salary, and the number of dependents. Wives with no children would receive 40% of their husband’s salary; wives with one dependent would receive 50%; with two or three dependents, 60%; and wives with more than three dependents would receive 66-2/3%. No family could receive more than $20 per week and payments would continue until the Industrial Commission had paid $7,500.00 to the family, or the widow remarried. Pay to the families of the Milford miners ranged from $11.28 to $20.00 per week (Crosby Courier, date unknown).
In addition to completely transforming dozens of families’ lives, the Milford Mine disaster was the catalyst that initiated an inquiry into the working conditions and safety of mines. Minnesota’s Governor, Jacob Aall Ottesen Preus, called for an immediate investigation into the cause and culpability of the Milford disaster. He appointed a commission, which consisted of William E. McEwan (former state labor commissioner and editor of the publication Labor World), Dwight Woodbridge (engineer from Duluth), Wilbur VanEvra (engineer from Crosby), R.R. Bailey (engineer from Virginia) and Edward Smith (St. Louis County mine inspector) (Crosby Courier, 16 May 1924).
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In order to determine the cause of and responsibility for the disaster, the committee met several times, visiting the mine, and taking public testimony from miners, survivors, engineers, and mining experts. Ultimately, the committee concluded that the disaster was caused by the mud and water breaking through an area (Contract 13) that had been mined out and subsequently caved in, as was the practice for underground mining on the Cuyuna Range. The area had been blasted on Friday February 1st, and caused water to seep slowly down, until the mine walls could no longer bear the pressure. “The real cause of the disaster was the fact that imminence and danger from such a rush of mud was not recognized by anyone” (Crosby Courier, 5 Dec 1924).
Based on these findings, the committee made several recommendations including:
Mine inspectors from St. Louis and Itasca counties meet with miners and draft safety legislation; $5,000.00 be allotted annually for mine safety education; Itasca, St. Louis and Crow Wing counties provide funding to allow mine inspectors to attend safety conferences; Every county with more than 50 operating mines have an assistant inspector.
In addition to these recommendations, first aid, breathing apparatus, rescue stations, mine maps, and warning and ventilation systems were improved; the cage which transported men into and out of the mine was enclosed (it had previously been open); mining within 12 feet of water was forbidden; and all water bodies near a mine were to be drained and kept dry (Pettersen 2006c:11). Committee chair, William McEwan appointed a committee to draft safety standards (Crosby Courier, 5 Dec 1924). These recommendations and standards prompted a national discussion and initiation of mine safety regulations.
Despite the committee’s formal recommendations, many miners and miners’ families disagreed with the findings. For quite some time miners had been wary of the Milford Mine, many quitting because they felt it was a “bad mine.” They believed that water from Foley Lake had been seeping into the sand around the mine for a very long time, and that the mine actually extended beneath the lake. However, many of the miners had set aside their fears because the mine had just passed inspection the week before (Crosby Courier, 8 Feb 1924). Many miners, who planned to quit in the spring, felt that the mine was safe in the winter because the ground was frozen. They did not realize that the mud and water extended so far underground that they would not freeze (Pettersen 2006b:15).
Additionally, the hearings held by the committee were public and were not mandatory. This made miners and their families hesitant to criticize the mine in their testimony for fear of being blacklisted (Pettersen 2006c). One daughter recalled an instance of a former Milford miner who was fired for criticizing the mine and its proximity to the lake. Her father had planned to testify at the hearings, but as he walked home from town one night, two men approached him and threatened his wife and daughter if he testified. He chose not to testify at the hearings (Pettersen 2006c:11).
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Frank Hrvatin, one of the seven miners who survived the disaster, was interviewed shortly before his death at the age of 67. Hvratin told about how he and his father did not plan to work at the Milford for long, because they knew they were heading for the lake. “It was a real wet mine. In parts of the mine you had to work in rain hats and slickers…They were under the lake. Directly under the lake. The mining inspector’s report will probably say different, but we were under the lake…The mining engineer told the company many times about the danger, but they wouldn’t listen. They just wanted the ore” (Pettersen 2006c). The mining engineer was on vacation in Texas during the public hearings and did not testify (Gustafson 1982: 42). Hvratin also called the disaster committee’s hearings a “farce” asking how a “small person could ever contradict a group with a lot of money? It’s absolutely impossible. So they made it stick and that’s the way it was written off” (Pettersen 2006c:11).
POST-DISASTER OPERATIONS AND CLOSURE, 1924-1932 As the Milford disaster committee held hearings, the mine owners formed a new corporation. George Crosby, Jr., George Crosby, Sr., William Harrison (a Duluth attorney), and W.A. Rose (general manager of mines for Pickands Mather and Company) filed papers forming the Amherst Mining Company (MHRSP 1940:82; Crosby Courier, 28 Mar 1924, Ironton News, 27 Mar 1924). Half of the Amherst stock was held by the Whitmarsh Mining Company and the other half jointly held by Bethlehem Steel and Picands, Mather and Company.1 After recovery operations were complete; the mine was cleaned out; and the Whitmarsh Mining Company was absolved of responsibility for the disaster; the Amherst Mining Company reopened the Milford Mine.
In January of 1926, the Amherst Mining Company expanded operations through a sub- lease of the Foley Mine from Century Commercial Company (Price, Waterhouse & Co. 1927:2). The Foley Mine parcel was located immediately adjacent to the Milford Mine holdings in the SW ¼ of the SE ¼ of Section 23. The two mines were operated together as one unit (Figure 13).2
The Milford Mine continued in operation through 1932, when it was closed due to a lack of demand (Aulie 1994:154; MHRSP 1940:117). In 1933, the remaining stockpile was sold and shipped from the site. In hopes of renewing the lease on the property, George H. Crosby, Jr. wrote to fellow investors in October of 1936. His letter (excerpted below) provides a description of the condition of the Milford Mine property at that time.3
As you know, the Whitmarsh Mining Company still has its plant and equipment which were used at the Milford Mine intact at the property, hoping that at some time it would again be possible to find a market for the small tonnage of ore remaining in the property.
1 MHS: Soo Line Railroad Company. Branch Lines. Amherst Mining Company: Misc. Docs – 1923-1933. 307.F.7.6F. Box 1. 2 MHS: Soo Line Railroad Company. Branch Lines. Whitmarsh Mining Company: Lands Owned - Undated and 1931. [Map] 307.F.9.10F. Box 30. 3 George H. Crosby, Jr. (Whitmarsh Mining Company, Crosby, MN). Letter to: Cuyler Adams Estate, c/o R. M. Adams, Executor (Duluth, MN). 1936 Oct 20. 1 leaf. Located at: Minnesota Historical Society, St. Paul. Adams Family Mining Companies, 145.1.3.6F, Box 23, Folder “Milford 1936.”
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FIGURE 13. MILFORD MINE ON UNDATED MAP OF WHITMARSH MINING COMPANY HOLDINGS
We estimate that there are approximately 225,000 tons of ore remaining on the SE of the SW of Section 23-47-29, in which you hold an interest. There is approximately the same tonnage on the adjoining Foley property which was also a part of the Milford Mine at the time it was operating.
If the above ore is ever to be recovered, it must be taken out soon before the present shafts cave in and before the plant and equipment deteriorate to a point where they will not be usable, because the remaining tonnage is not sufficiently large to warrant the sinking of a new shaft or the purchase of new equipment.
The mine did not reopen and in 1938 an inventory was taken of the Milford Mine’s plant and equipment in anticipation of its liquidation (Whitmarsh Mining Company 1938). The buildings appear on the 1939 aerial photograph of the property, but were eventually removed. Total production for the mine between 1918 and 1932 was 1,266,172 tons (MHRSP 1940:117) (Table 1).
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TABLE 1. TONNAGE SHIPPED BY YEAR* Ida Mae / Year Milford Mine Foley Mine Total
1917 -- 1918 4,917 1919 270 1920 20,851 1921 -- 1922 871 1923 76,301 1924 -- 1925 -- 1926 -- 68,728 1927 26,349 123,485 149,834 1928 96,374 65,058 161,432 1929 138,785 80,143 218,928 1930 45,675 52,534 98,209 1931 ? ? 1932 ? ? 1933 50,005
*Soo Line Railroad Company. Branch Lines. Whitmarsh, Misc. (MHS:307.F.10.1B); Mines Experiment Station 1961:139; Skillings’ Mining Review, 4 Sept 1920, Vol. IX (16):7
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PAGE 34 MILFORD MINE NATIONAL REGISTER HISTORIC DISTRICT CULTURAL LANDSCAPE REPORT
CHAPTER 3 . EXISTING CONDITIONS
The present-day appearance of the Milford Mine site was shaped by the mining operations that took place on the site between 1912 and 1932. However, subsequent to the site’s abandonment many of the features related to those activities have been removed. This chapter documents the landscape characteristics and features of the Milford Mine Historic District as they appear in 2014 (see Figure 37 – Existing Conditions Plan).
SITE DEVELOPMENT OVERVIEW After the Milford Mine ceased operations in 1932, no further development took place on the property. While the 1939 aerial photograph indicates that the mine’s buildings were still present in that year, they were eventually removed and scrapped (Figure 14).
The Milford Mine Memorial Park that encompasses the majority of the Milford Mine Historic District was created from tax-forfeited land. In 2007, a multi-phase, multi-year concept plan for the park was presented to the Crow Wing County Board. The principal goals of the plan, which was developed by the county’s consultant Short Elliott Hendrickson, Inc. (SEH), were (1) to develop a memorial to the 41 miners who lost their lives in the 1924 disaster, and (2) to allow visitors to experience the natural beauty of the site through quiet recreational activities (e.g, hiking, canoeing, and wildlife viewing).
FIGURE 14. MILFORD MINE COMPLEX, 1939 AERIAL PHOTOGRAPH
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While the management plan was developed with an emphasis on interpreting the history of the Milford Mine and called for the “exposing of old foundations,” it did not include measures for preserving and protecting the mine’s archaeological and cultural resources. On March 27, 2007, the Crow Wing County Board agreed by resolution to provide matching funds for this project. A $100,000 grant from Iron Range Resources provided funding. On February 24, 2009 the board approved an additional $50,000 in matching funds.
Phase 1 of the park’s development plans entailed the construction of an access road, parking areas, and a canoe launch along the north shore of Milford Lake (Figure 15). The construction of Phase 1 was preceded by a Phase I archaeological survey and the completion of the National Register nomination for the property (Hohman-Caine and Goltz 2009; Terrell and Ladwig 2010; Terrell 2010). In consultation with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and the Minnesota State Historic Preservation Office Phase 1 project plans were modified to avoid impacts to contributing resources to the historic district and its viewsheds. In the fall of 2010, the Phase 1 access road, parking areas, canoe launch, and a walking path were constructed along the north side of Milford Lake using the Iron Range Resources grant and matching funds from the county.
Phases 2 and 3 of the park development plans include the creation of trails (including a memorial walk), a picnic shelter, a canoe landing, and a permanent boardwalk as well as informational and interpretive signage. Much of this planned work will take place within the historic core of the mine site and within the boundary of archaeological site 21CW282. Portions of Phase 2, including the construction of a picnic shelter, benches, picnic tables, bicycle rack, and cooking grills, were constructed in October of 2012. Most of these features were placed on an upland point on the north side of the lake. The approach to the picnic shelter is the pre-mine disaster alignment of the road between the mine site and Wolford. A park entrance sign, informational kiosk, picnic table, grill, and bench, were also installed on the northeast corner of the lake near the post-disaster spur grade. In June of 2013, a retaining wall and landscaping was completed around the picnic shelter.
Phase II archaeological investigations in anticipation of the remainder of the Phase 2 work were completed in 2014 (Terrell and Gronhovd 2014). While in the field, the Principal Investigators collaborated with Crow Wing County project manager, Bryan Pike, to modify the proposed trail alignments. Pathways were adjusted to primarily follow historical circulation routes through the site thereby avoiding impacts to structural remains and associated archaeological features.
Phase 4, which is not yet scheduled, entails the development of trails, a boardwalk, and a picnic shelter within the western portion of the site.
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FIGURE 15. MILFORD MINE MEMORIAL PARK MASTER PLAN (ANDERSON 2007)
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SPATIAL ORGANIZATION Milford Mine Memorial Park is encompasses portions of the SW ¼ and the NW ¼-SE ¼ of Section 23. Island Lake bounds the property to the northwest and Milford Lake to the east-southeast. An expansive wetland is present between the two lakes. The property is generally divided into north and south halves by the former grade of the Soo Line Railroad. The spatial organization of the property has been historically, and is presently still, determined by the natural constraints posed by the lakes and wetlands and, in turn, the location of the rail line. An entrance road following the former railroad grade provides the only means of public access to the park (Figure 16).
Existing park amenities are located proximate to the roadway and are grouped on uplands near the park entrance and at the northwest corner of Milford Lake. The east cluster near the park entrance includes a parking area, boat launch, an information board, a picnic area, and a trail leading to the shoreline following a former rail spur. The cluster at the west end of the access road consists of a parking area, picnic shelter, bike rack, and path leading to the shelter that follows a portion of the former road to Wolford. The remainder of the park area is undeveloped natural area. The parkland to the north of the Soo Line Railroad grade is three-quarters wetlands, with those few areas that are not inundated being wooded. To the south of the railroad grade, approximately half of the park property is wetland, while the remainder is wooded uplands. The mine’s historic core is situated on wooded uplands along the west side of Milford Lake.
FIGURE 16. PARK ENTRANCE AND ACCESS ROAD, VIEW TO WEST-SOUTHWEST
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LAND USE The current land use of the Milford Mine property is recreational although visitor amenities (parking, boat launch, and picnic shelter) are limited to areas proximate to the park entrance road and the remainder of the park is presently a natural landscape including the public waters of Milford Lake. While former roads, building foundations, and other remnants of the site’s mining operations are evident within the historic core, during the more than 80 years that have transpired since the mine’s closure, secondary tree growth and vegetation has encroached on the mine site. An overhead electrical transmission corridor passes through the southwest corner of the district.
CIRCULATION The present established circulation routes within the Milford Mine site consist of a single entrance road and short trail segments. The main approach road to the park follows the alignment of the former Soo Line Railroad’s main line between Manganese and Iron Hub. In the fall of 2010, a segment of the rail grade along the north shore of Milford Lake was altered to serve as the park’s entrance road. The conversion of the road grade to a gravel-surfaced road required the introduction of some fill along the north edge of the lake where the grade had become degraded and inundated (Figure 17). Two parking areas are accessed from the entrance road: one near the park entrance and boat launch (Figure 18) and another at the west terminus of the road near the picnic shelter (Figure 19).
FIGURE 17. ACCESS ROAD / FORMER SOO LINE RAILROAD GRADE, VIEW TO SOUTHWEST
PAGE 39 MILFORD MINE NATIONAL REGISTER HISTORIC DISTRICT CULTURAL LANDSCAPE REPORT
FIGURE 18. EAST PARKING AREA, VIEW TO NORTHEAST
FIGURE 19. WEST PARKING AREA, VIEW TO WEST
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A short trail segment following the former post-disaster rail spur leads from the park access road (railroad main line) southwest to the lakeshore (Figure 20). This gravel- surfaced path leads to a picnic table with a cooking grill and a bench.
Another short trail segment leads from the west parking lot to the picnic shelter (Figure 21). This trail, which has been gravel-surfaced, follows pre-disaster alignment of the road that connected the mine site with the community of Wolford.
FIGURE 20. TRAIL ALONG POST-DISASTER RAIL SPUR, VIEW TO SOUTHWEST
FIGURE 21. PATH TO PICNIC SHELTER FOLLOWING ALIGNMENT OF PRE-DISASTER ROAD FROM WOLFORD TO THE MILFORD MINE, VIEW TO SOUTHWEST
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While the existing park road and trails follow historic railroad and road alignments, other rail grades and roads that existed during the period of significance are still present within the Milford Mine Historic District, but are not as of yet incorporated into the park’s circulation network. These features include the grade of the rail spur that serviced the mine and the road that passes through the historic core. A portion of the latter, to the west of the historic core, is used as an all-terrain vehicle (ATV) trail.
VEGETATION The 240 acres of Milford Mine Memorial Park incorporates the open waters of Milford Lake and 112.78 acres of wetlands (Westwood 2008:2) (Figure 22). Only 25% of the park’s acreage are uplands and these are present principally in the northeast and southwest corners of the park with the expansive wetland that connects Milford and Island lakes between them (Figure 23). Habitats present include the aquatic lake environments of Milford and Island lakes and the associated shallow open water, marsh, bog, and shrub swamp communities located adjacent to these water bodies and inland (Figures 23 and 24). Specific types of wetland communities identified within the park include Alder Thicket, Sedge Meadow, Woodland Swamp, Deep Marsh, and Open Bog (Westwood 2008:4). Wetland vegetation present includes sedge species, Black Ash, and Speckled Alder. The park’s uplands are covered in deciduous woodland largely comprised of second-growth/successional forest (Figure 25). Common species include oaks, aspen, maples, hazelnut, and birch. Pines are limited, but pockets of mixed coniferous-deciduous forest are present. Occasional landscape plants, most notably a bed of irises, are located within the historic core. The County has planted a few coniferous trees in conjunction with the park’s development including around the east parking lot (Figure 26).
FIGURE 22. MILFORD LAKE FROM PARK ENTRANCE, VIEW TO SOUTHWEST
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FIGURE 23. WETLAND COMMUNITIES PRESENT WITHIN MILFORD MINE MEMORIAL PARK
(WESTWOOD PROFESSIONAL SERVICES, 2008)
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FIGURE 24. VIEW ACROSS THE NORTHWEST ARM OF MILFORD LAKE, VIEW TO SOUTHWEST
FIGURE 25. ENCROACHING FOREST GROWTH WITHIN THE HISTORIC CORE, VIEW TO NORTH
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FIGURE 26. PINE PLANTINGS AROUND EAST PARKING LOT, VIEW TO NORTH
STRUCTURES With the exception of remnant rail grades, which are classified by the National Park Service as structures, no historic structures or buildings remain standing within the Milford Mine study area.
RAIL GRADES Rail grades present within the boundary of the Milford Mine Historic District include those of the Soo Line Railroad’s main line, the spur track to the west of Milford Lake that serviced the mine site, and the post-disaster spur on the northeast side of Milford Lake. Further detail on these features is provided in Chapter 5: Analysis and Evaluation of Structure and Building Remains.
PICNIC SHELTER In 2012, a picnic shelter was constructed on a rise at the west terminus of the park access road (Figure 27). The shelter is a gable-roofed, open-sided design. The roof is supported on eight, black, square steel columns. The roof construction is laminated tapered curved beams supporting tongue and grooved roof decking. The shelter is covered in green metal roofing. A concrete slab forms the floor of the shelter. Associated with the picnic shelter are three picnic tables, a bench, and cooking grills (Figure 28). A concrete block retaining wall and split-rail fence are located to the north of the shelter (Figure 29). The low profile of the picnic shelter and its green roof serve to minimize its visual impact when viewed from the historic core.
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FIGURE 27. PICNIC SHELTER, VIEW TO SOUTH
FIGURE 28. BENCH NEAR PICNIC SHELTER
FIGURE 29. PICNIC SHELTER RETAINING WALL AND SPLIT- RAIL FENCE, VIEW TO WEST- SOUTHWEST
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SMALL-SCALE FEATURES The primary small-scale features within the Milford Mine Memorial Park include informational signage, benches and picnic tables, and a bike rack. These features have been
PARK ENTRANCE SIGN The County has constructed an entrance sign along the south side of the park’s main approach mid-way between the boat launch and the east parking entrance (Figure 30).
FIGURE 30. PARK ENTRANCE SIGN, VIEW TO SOUTHWEST
INFORMATIONAL KIOSK AND SIGNAGE An informational kiosk is located to the south of the trail that follows the post- disaster rail spur near its junction with the main entrance road (Figure 31).
The County has also installed wayfinding aids (See Figure 31).
FIGURE 31. INFORMATIONAL KIOSK (LEFT) AND EXAMPLE OF WAYFINDING AID (BELOW)
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BENCHES AND PICNIC TABLES In addition to the picnic tables and benches associated with the picnic shelter. An additional bench has been placed at the west terminus of the post-disaster rail spur and a picnic table (Figure 32) and cooking grill are also located on the lakeshore midway along this same rail spur (Figure 33). It should be noted that the bench was placed to the side of the spur and oriented with the grade so that it does not obstruct the line of sight along the rail spur or views from the terminus of the spur towards the historic core. The picnic table and cooking grill are also not readily visible from the trail that follows the grade of the rail spur.
FIGURE 32. BENCH NEAR THE END OF THE POST-DISASTER RAIL SPUR, VIEW TO SOUTHWEST
FIGURE 33. PICNIC TABLE ALONG THE POST-DISASTER RAIL SPUR, VIEW TO THE SOUTH
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BOAT LAUNCH A gravel-surfaced boat launch near the park entrance provides access to Milford Lake (Figure 34).
FIGURE 34. BOAT LAUNCH, VIEW TO SOUTHWEST
BICYCLE RACK A single wave-style bicycle rack is located along the south side of the west parking area near the trail leading to the picnic shelter (Figure 35).
LANDSCAPE BOULDERS FIGURE 35. BICYCLE RACK The County has placed natural boulders at one point along the park entrance on opposite sides of the approach as well as across the trail leading to the picnic shelter in order to deter vehicle traffic on the trail (Figure 36).
FIGURE 36. LANDSCAPE BOULDERS
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ARCHAEOLOGICAL FEATURES (21CW282) Located within the historic core are archaeological features (foundations, cellar holes, depressions, etc.) associated with the operations of the Milford Mine and the occupation of its associated location. These features are discussed in further detail in Chapter 5: Analysis and Evaluation of Structure and Building Remains
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FIGURE 37. EXISTING CONDITIONS PLAN
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CHAPTER 4 . ANALYSIS AND EVALUATION: SIGNIFICANCE AND NATURAL CHARACTERISTICS
The historical significance of the Milford Mine was formally recognized in 2011 with its listing in the National Register of Historic Places. This chapter reviews the property’s National Register status as well as the associated period and areas of significance. The evaluation portion of the chapter describes the physical integrity of the property’s natural characteristics with reference to their historic context(s), and identifies which features contribute or do not contribute to the historical significance of the Milford Mine. The evaluation of the remains of buildings and structures is provided in Chapter 5.
EVALUATION OF HISTORICAL SIGNIFICANCE
In order for a property to be listed in the National Register of Historic Places it must undergo a defined process of identification and evaluation. Through this review it must demonstrate that it meets one of the following standards for historical significance.
Criterion A. That are associated with events that have made a significant contribution to the broad patterns of our history; or
Criterion B. That are associated with the lives of persons significant in our past; or
Criterion C. That embody the distinctive characteristics of a type, period, or method of construction or that represent the work of a master, that possess high artistic values, or that represent a significant and distinguishable entity whose components may lack individual distinction; or
Criterion D. That have yielded, or may be likely to yield, information important in prehistory or history.
CURRENT NATIONAL REGISTER STATUS The Milford Mine Historic District was listed in the National Register of Historic Places on August 10, 2011. The Milford Mine is identified in the nomination documentation as a historic property of local significance under National Register Criteria A and D in the areas of Industry, Labor, and Archaeology. The selected period of significance for the property is 1912 to 1932. The statement of significance from the National Register nomination reads:
The Milford Mine Historic District is a collection of archaeological features associated with the operation of the mine and the onsite residences of the mine workers (21CW282), together with the non-archaeological feature of the grade of the railroad main line and the associated spur tracks that serviced the mine. As the site of Minnesota’s worst iron ore-mining accident on February 5, 1924 in which 41 miners perished, the Milford Mine Historic District qualifies for listing on the National Register under Criterion A in the areas of Industry and Labor for its association with this significant event in Minnesota history. In addition, the archaeological
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features of the site not only provide significant evidence for mining technology on the Cuyuna Range, but they also have the ability to answer important research questions regarding the daily lives of the workers including aspects of sanitation, hygiene, health, meal choice, consumer choice, and religious practices, as well as broader topics of class, ethnicity, and gender. Furthermore, the remains of the Milford Mine serve to document the development and demise of the iron ore industry on the Cuyuna Range. The Milford Mine Historic District therefore also meets Criterion D for inclusion on the National Register as it contains information important to our understanding of this period in Minnesota history.
The Milford Mine National Register Historic District consists of one contributing site (21CW282) and one contributing structure (network of railroad grades – main line and spurs). Two non-mine related archaeological sites (21CW280 and 21CS281) within the boundary of the historic district are identified as non-contributing resources.
SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANCE FOR THE 1912-1932 PERIOD The period of significance for the Milford Mine Historic District begins with initial exploratory drilling on the mine site in 1912 and extends through 1932 when the mine ceased operation due to a lack of demand (Aulie 1994:22,154; MHRSP 1940:117). The defined 20-year historical period of significance encompasses the mine site’s development, operations, and closure. It also notably includes the historically-significant event of the Milford Mine Disaster, which occurred on February 5, 1924, and its aftermath.
During this study, no historical evidence was found to suggest that the period of significance be modified.
NATIONAL REGISTER LISTING BOUNDARY DESCRIPTION The 180-acre boundary of the Milford Mine Historic District was chosen to encompass the entire property historically held by the owners of the mine (SW ¼ of Sect. 23, T 47N R 29W) together with an extension to the east within the NW ¼ of the SE ¼ of Section 23 to encompass a railroad spur constructed in direct response to the 1924 disaster as well as an adjacent portion of the railroad main line. Within the boundary were all of the known archaeological features associated with the mine site, the full extent of the underground mine as documented in 1924, as well as associated railroad grades, tailing piles, roadways, and borrow pits.
POTENTIAL REFINEMENT OF THE NATIONAL REGISTER LISTING BOUNDARY During the course of this study, additional information came to light on the holdings of the Whitmarsh Mining Company and the extent of the Milford Mine’s underground workings. Of particular note is the limit of the company’s lease to Lots 5 and 6 and the SE ¼ of the SW ¼ of Section 23, which excludes the waters of Island Lake, and the addition of the Foley Mine property in the SW ¼ of the SE ¼ to the mine’s lease in 1926 (Price, Waterhouse & Co. 1927:2) (Figure 38). 4 By 1928, the mine’s underground
4 MHS: Soo Line Railroad Company. Branch Lines. Whitmarsh Mining Company: Lands Owned - Undated and 1931. [Map] 307.F.9.10F. Box 30.
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FIGURE 38. HISTORIC BOUNDARY OF THE MILFORD MINE (DASHED LINE) workings had extended into the SW ¼ of the SE ¼ where another shaft (Timber Shaft No. 2) had been sunk (Middlebrook 1929). It was also observed that expanding the boundary of the historic district to the entirety of the NW ¼ of the SE ¼ of Section 23 so that the boundary of the district and the County park are one and the same would facilitate the long-term management of the mine’s historic resources.
Based on these findings, it is recommended that the boundaries of the Milford Mine Historic District be revised to include the entire SW ¼ of Section 23 excepting Island Lake (SE-SW, Lots 5 and 6), and all of the W ½ of the SE ¼ of Section 23 (Township 47N, Range 29W) (Figure 39). This boundary would encompass the entirety of the Milford Mine’s operations as well as the post-disaster railroad spur. It is further recommended, that the County examine adding the SW ¼ of the SE ¼ of Section 23 to the park so as to include all of the mine’s workings and shafts.
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FIGURE 39. RECOMMENDED NATIONAL REGISTER HISTORIC DISTRICT BOUNDARY REVISION
EVALUATION OF LANDSCAPE INTEGRITY A National Register property must not only be historically significant, but it must also retain sufficient integrity to continue to communicate its significance. “The integrity of a cultural landscape is determined by the degree to which the landscape characteristics that define its historical significance are still present. Because some landscape characteristics (such as vegetation and use) are dynamic, integrity also depends on the extent to which the general character of the historic period is evident and the degree to which incompatible elements are reversible. It is important to consider how such changes affect the landscape as a whole and the degree to which they impact or obscure the landscape’s character and integrity. With some vernacular and ethnographic landscapes, change itself is a significant factor and must be considered in assessing integrity” (NPS 2012).
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The National Register guidelines identify seven aspects of integrity: location, design, setting, materials, workmanship, feeling, and association. To retain sufficient integrity to convey a sense of the past, a property will always possess several, and usually most, of the seven aspects (not all are applicable to every property type).
. Location is the place where the historic property was constructed or the place where the historic event occurred . Design is the combination of elements that create the form, plan, space, structure, and style of a property. . Setting is the physical environment of a historic property . Materials are the physical elements that were combined or deposited during a particular period of time and in a particular pattern or configuration to form a historic property. . Workmanship is the physical evidence of the crafts of a particular culture or people during any given period in history or prehistory. . Feeling is a property’s expression of the aesthetic or historic sense of a particular period of time. . Association is the direct link between an important historic event or person and a historic property.
Since the closure of the mine in 1932, the rural and isolated setting of the Milford Mine Historic District has contributed to the excellent preservation of the site’s features including the arrangement of the mine buildings and their identifying characteristics, as well as undisturbed subsurface archaeological features including trash pits and privies. While secondary tree growth has enclosed the site, and the super-structures and mining equipment have been removed, no subsurface impacts have occurred within the site area. The key aspects of the mine, including several features associated with the disaster of February 5, 1924, are still present and recognizable. Presently, the Milford Mine Historic District retains excellent integrity of location, design (the layout and arrangement of the mine features), setting, feeling, and association. Based on the guidelines for identifying, evaluating, and registering historic mine properties, the Milford Mine Historic District has excellent integrity (Noble and Spude 1992:21).
With the exception of the creation of the access road, parking areas, and picnic shelter along the north shore of Milford Lake, which do not greatly diminish the district’s overall integrity, the Milford Mine Historic District demonstrates the same level of integrity that it did at the time of its listing in the National Register.
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ANALYSIS OF LANDSCAPE CHARACTERISTICS The historic development and use of the Milford Mine site was influenced by the natural characteristics of the landscape and in turn the mining operations that took place there had lasting effects on the original natural characteristics of the property. This report section provides descriptions of the landscape elements present within the Milford Mine Historic District that define its character and aid in understanding its cultural value and identifies those natural characteristics that contribute to the historical significance of the property. Landscape characteristics described in this section of the report include:
. Natural Systems and Features . Topography . Spatial Organization . Vegetation . Land Use . Views and Vistas
NATURAL SYSTEMS AND FEATURES Natural systems and features are those natural processes or resulting features that have influenced the development and physical form of a landscape (Page et al. 1998:53, 142).
GEOLOGY No other natural characteristic was a more significant contributing factor to the development of the Milford Mine site than the region’s geology. The Milford Mine is located within the Cuyuna’s North Range, which is made up of a significant formation from Riverton on the west to Cuyuna on the east, as well as a smaller deposit to the north near the communities of Manganese and Wolford (Walker 1979:251). Milford Mine is located within the latter portion of the range to the east of Manganese and the south- southeast of Wolford. Here the ore body is present in narrow bands. At the site of the Milford Mine it was less than a ¼-mile across (Figure 40). The brown ore mined at Milford was from the manganiferous Trommald formation (Schmidt 1963:67).5
SOILS While the types of soils present within the Milford Mine Historic District did not directly influence the site’s development, they do reflect the environmental constraints of the property that resulted in its spatial organization. The most prevalent soil type within the study is the Trommald-Peat Association (TP), which is associated with the wetlands adjoining and connecting Island Lake and Milford Lake (Figure 41). The Trommald-Peat Association is found with level, poorly drained areas to open wet bogs (Arneman et al. 1965:9). The rolling uplands of the southwest portion of the project area and to the northeast of Milford Lake are mantled in soils of the Hibbing-Chetek Association (HBC and HCC). The soils of the Hibbing and Chetek series are found on glacial outwash plains and terraces (Arneman et al. 1965:4, 5). Within the northern portion of the study area are soils of the Menahga-Nymore Association (MNA), which are typified by sandy soils found on level, outwash plains (Arneman et al. 1965:7, 8).
5 For a detailed discussion of the ore of the Cuyuna’s North Range see Schmidt 1963.
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Study Area
FIGURE 40. IRON FORMATION (RED) AND EXPLORATORY DRILL HOLES (DOTS) (MOREY AND MOREY 1986)
Study Area
FIGURE 41. SOIL SURVEY MAP OF THE STUDY AREA (ARNEMAN ET AL. 1965)
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FOLEY POND / MILFORD LAKE As noted in the historic context, one of the challenges of mining on the Cuyuna Range was the presence of numerous lakes, which made it difficult to find, access, and mine the region’s ore. The Milford Mine Historic District is situated proximate to both Island Lake and Milford Lake, however, it is the latter, to which the mine gave its name, that played a significant role in the site’s history.
Historic Condition Prior to the start of underground mining operations, Milford Lake (then called Foley Lake or Foley Pond) consisted of two bodies of water joined by a narrow neck (Figure 42). Surrounding the lake were expansive wetlands. The 1924 Milford Mine disaster and the mine’s operations would have a lasting effect on the lake’s configuration.
At the time of the 1924 disaster, the easternmost underground workings of the Milford Mine were located about 1,000 feet to the east of the shaft and just to the west of the half-section line that marked the east boundary of the Whitmarsh Mining Company’s lease. The workings were beneath a muskeg swamp, but not the lake body. However, when the mine flooded on the afternoon of Tuesday, February 5, both the water level of the swamp and neighboring Foley Lake dropped leading the committee investigating the disaster to conclude that the water bodies were interconnected and that the pressure of Foley Lake contributed to the collapse (Duluth Herald, February 7, 1924; MDLI 1924:3). Specifically, the closest room to the lake, (Contract 13) after being mined out was blasted down (collapsed) on Friday, February 1, but had “hung up” (did not fully
FIGURE 42. FOLEY / MILFORD LAKE (ARROW) ON 1913 USGS TOPOGRAPHIC MAP
PAGE 60 MILFORD MINE NATIONAL REGISTER HISTORIC DISTRICT CULTURAL LANDSCAPE REPORT collapse). The remaining arch of rock over this room eventually gave way on February 5 and, as it settled, an opening broke through to the surface (MDLI - Report 1924:3). When the lake was drained after the disaster, between 8 and 18 ft. of muskeg was documented over the hole that caved into Contract 13 (MDLI 1924:8).
Subsequent to the disaster, it was recommended that all water bodies near a mine be drained and kept dry (MDLI 1924:9; Pettersen 2006c:11). Hydraulic pumping during the recovery efforts caused the ground above the mine to subside pulling the lake even further to the northwest and closer to the mine. When the reconditioned Milford Mine reopened in November of 1924, the swamp over the mine was kept drained by “a double stage Cameron pump and two electric pumps” (Aulie 1994:154). Furthermore, “a small dam” was built “between the swamp and the mine” to hold back the waters of the lake (Aulie 1994:154).
With the addition of the Foley Mine lease in 1926, the underground workings of the Milford Mine expanded eastward. As the ore was removed and the rooms blasted down the ground above the mine continued to cave. Once the mine closed in 1932 and the pumping of water from the mine shafts and wetlands ceased, the low-lying caved ground flooded. The mine’s caved workings now form the west arm of Milford Lake (Figure 43).
Caved Ground
FIGURE 43. OVERLAY OF 1913 AND 1973 USGS TOPOGRAPHIC MAPS WITH 1913 LAKE BOUNDARY OUTLINED AND CAVED GROUND INDICATED
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Current Condition The open water of Milford Lake encompasses 68.9 acres. The lake has a median depth of 12.7 ft., and a maximum depth of 69 ft. which is located in the portion of the lake created by the caving of the Milford Mine’s underground workings (MN DNR 1982) (Figure 44). Aerial photographs and topographic maps indicate that the lake’s general shape has not changed since the Milford Mine closed, although the water table is higher than it was at the time of the 1939 aerial photographs given the drought experienced during the 1930s.
Evaluation - Contributing Milford Lake is a distinctive character-defining feature of the Milford Mine Historic District that dates to the district’s historic period and which contributes to the sites historic setting and feeling. Pressure from Foley/Milford Lake contributed to the 1924 disaster and the north end of the lake was shaped by the caving of the mine’s underground operations.
FIGURE 44. DEPTH MAP OF MILFORD LAKE
(MN DNR 1982)
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Treatment Recommendations During the period of significance, Milford Lake had a naturalized shoreline which should be maintained and not altered. The lake’s history and how its current configuration reflects the presence of the underground mining operations should be interpreted.
TOPOGRAPHY Topography is the three-dimensional configuration of the landscape surface, its characteristic features, and orientation (Page et al. 1998:53, 149).
Historic Condition Given the numerous lakes, wetlands, and generally high water table of the Cuyuna Range, one of the principal factors that contributed to the selection of the Milford Mine site was the presence of a dry upland over the ore body that was of a sufficient size to host the complex of structures necessary for the mine’s operation. The 1913 USGS topographic map, which predates the development of the mine, illustrates the uplands to the west of Foley Pond/Milford Lake that were selected for the site of the mine (Figure 45). The proximity of this upland to the Soo Line Railroad and the ability to construct the mine’s spur track across additional uplands to the west were also fundamental factors in the selection of this location. The ability to access the site via an overland road from the south was also vital to its development. At the time of the 1924 disaster the mine location was described as a “desolate, wind-swept hill-top” (Pioneer Press, 7 Feb 1924).
FIGURE 45. 1913 USGS TOPOGRAPHIC MAP OF MILFORD MINE SITE (ARROW)
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While the natural topography present within the SW ¼ of Section 23, led to the selection of the mine site, the mine’s operations in turn forever altered the area’s topography. The railroad grades and roadways present within the historic district used cut-and-fill construction that resulted in deep cuts through uplands and the filling of low-lying areas. Likewise, a level area for stockpiling ore was formed through grading. Borrow pits used to generate additional fill are evident within the district. Furthermore, underground mining techniques caused the ground above the mine to cave and subside. This process, together with the collapse that occurred at the time of the 1924 disaster, altered the landscape and resulted in Milford Lake’s present configuration. Conversely, the mine’s waste rock pile created an upland on the USGS topographic map where one previously did not exist (see Figure 43).
Current Condition The elements of the natural topography that contributed to the selection of the Milford Mine site are still evident. The distinct uplands of the historic core are surrounded by wetlands and open water. Alterations to the landscape (rail grades, roadways, caved ground, Milford Lake, and the waste rock pile) that took place during the mine’s operations are also evident.
Evaluation - Contributing The topography of the Milford Mine site is inherently tied to its development. The juxtaposition of uplands and wetlands also reflects the difficulty of mining on the Cuyuna Range. For these reasons the topography of the Milford Mine Historic District contributes to the sites historic setting and feeling.
Treatment Recommendations The present topography of the site should be preserved and not altered. Slopes and embankments should be monitored for erosion. If active erosion is present, a stabilization plan should be developed and implemented.
SPATIAL ORGANIZATION Spatial organization is the three-dimensional arrangement of cultural and natural features that define and create spaces in the landscape (Page et al. 1998:53, 147). Spatial organization is often the result of the functional relationship between the land use and the natural characteristics of the property.
Historic Condition As noted in the previous section, the topography of the Milford Mine property and the location of the Soo Line Railroad and the ore body were determining factors in the selection of the upland upon which the mine’s historic core was constructed. Within the historic core, the Milford Mine site is divided into industrial and residential clusters. The industrial complex is situated at the north end of the upland occupied by the mine. The residential cluster is located south of the industrial complex, and east and west of the main street that runs through the center of the site. The small, one- or two-room homes aligned in rows to either side of this roadway were occupied by the families of mine workers. At the south end of the landform, farthest from the mine shaft, additional larger homes were present. A separate boarding house for single miners was located farther to the west and separated from the remainder of the mining complex by a wetland.
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Current Condition The spatial organization within the Milford Mine site and its relationship to the site’s topography is still evident in the arrangement of the remains of buildings and structures upon the landscape.
Evaluation - Contributing The spatial organization of the Milford Mine site is a direct reflection of the mine’s development and occupation. The arrangement of the mine’s structures and their relationship to the site’s topography is a character defining feature of the Milford Mine Historic District.
Treatment Recommendations The spatial organization of the features of the Milford Mine Historic Site should be preserved and not altered. The divisions of space within the mine site should be interpreted.
VEGETATION
Historic Condition Generally, the Milford Mine study area is located within that portion of Minnesota classified as Boreal Hardwood-Conifer Forest (Wendt and Coffin 1988). The Crow Wing County soil survey indicates that study area’s peat bogs are known to have supported sedges, alders, and willows; while the native vegetation associated with the area’s upland soils included hardwoods (oak and maple) and scattered conifers (white and red pine) (Arneman et al. 1965:4, 5, 9). Secondary growth consists of jack pine, aspen and birch together with a few red oaks (Arneman et al. 1965:7, 8). However, the most detailed description of the types of vegetation present within the study area is provided in the notes of the surveyor that laid out the township’s section lines in 1871. From south to north along the west edge of Section 23, he commenced within hardwood timber on the upland, passed through a black ash swale, and then entered a tamarack swamp bordering Island Lake. From west to east along the south edge of Section 23, the surveyor documented the same open timber of hardwood and pine on the uplands before entering a tamarack swamp that gave way to a pond (Foley’s Pond) (Ingerson 1871:140-142).
According to 1939 aerial photographs and historical photographs of the mine property taken at the time of the disaster, the upland occupied by the central mine complex had been cleared of trees (Figures 46 and 47). The linear edge of the clearing is evident to the west of the boarding house, and to the north of the mine’s spur grade. Beyond the historic core, the native vegetation remained undisturbed with hardwoods present on dry uplands surrounded by tamarack bogs and wetlands (Figure 48).
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FIGURE 46. HISTORIC CORE CLEARED OF VEGETATION, 1939
FIGURE 47. PHOTOGRAPH OF THE MILFORD MINE LOCATION WITHOUT TREES, 1924
(MINNESOTA HISTORICAL SOCIETY)
PAGE 66 MILFORD MINE NATIONAL REGISTER HISTORIC DISTRICT CULTURAL LANDSCAPE REPORT
FIGURE 48. VIEW OF FOLEY POND AT THE TIME OF THE 1924 DISASTER ILLUSTRATING THE PRESENCE OF TAMARACK TREES AND WETLAND VEGETATION.
(MINNESOTA HISTORICAL SOCIETY)
Current Condition As it did during the historic period, the vegetation of the Milford Mine property is a mixture of wetland and upland plant communities. Specific types of wetland communities identified within the park include Alder Thicket, Sedge Meadow, Woodland Swamp, Deep Marsh, and Open Bog (Westwood 2008:4). Wetland vegetation present includes sedge species, Black Ash, and Speckled Alder. The park’s uplands are covered in deciduous woodland largely comprised of second-growth/successional forest. Common species include oaks, aspen, maples, hazelnut, and birch. Pines are limited, but pockets of mixed coniferous-deciduous forest are present. Occasional landscape plants, most notably a bed of irises, are located within the historic core. Since the site was abandoned, vegetation has encroached on the historic core and invasive species (e.g., honeysuckle and buckthorn) are present.
Evaluation – Contributing (Native Vegetation and Ornamental Plants) Native vegetation (within its established boundaries during the period of significance) is a character-defining feature that contributes to the historic setting and feeling of the Milford Mine Historic District. Cultivars and ornamental plants from the period of occupation, such as the bed of irises near the cellar hole of Building 10, contribute to our understanding of activity areas and daily life within the location.
Treatment Recommendations It is recommended that a long-term vegetation management plan be developed that addresses the following recommendations:
PAGE 67 MILFORD MINE NATIONAL REGISTER HISTORIC DISTRICT CULTURAL LANDSCAPE REPORT
. Ruins and corridors (rail grades and former roads) should be kept free of trees and brush in order to maintain their historic character.
. Trees should be removed from within and immediate to the industrial and residential areas in order to restore the setting and feeling of the mine site during its period of historical significance.
. Trees and vegetation should be cleared from the stockpile grounds in order to restore the setting and feeling of this feature and to make it visible to visitors.
. Retain ornamental landscape plants (e.g. irises) associated with the occupation of the site.
In addition to restoring the historic feeling of the property, tree and brush removal will aid in the preservation of the site by reducing the adverse impacts of vegetation root systems on archaeological features. Any vegetation to be removed should be cut to grade (not pulled) and treated with herbicide, as necessary, to prevent regrowth. In order to protect archaeological resources, stumps should not be pulled or ground and the use of heavy equipment should be avoided.
LAND USE Land use is the principal activities that have formed, shaped, or organized the landscape (Page et al. 1998:53, 140).
Historic Condition During the Milford Mine Historic District’s period of historical significance (1912-1932), industrial and residential land use took place within the historic core while the majority of the surrounding acreage remained in its natural state. Public utilities were also present during the historic period in the form of a transmission corridor that passed to the southwest of the historic core as well as a lower voltage line that entered the historic core from the southwest.
Existing Condition The current land use of the Milford Mine property is recreational. Visitor amenities (parking, boat launch, and picnic shelter) are limited to areas proximate to the park entrance road and the remainder of the park is presently a natural landscape including the public waters of Milford Lake. A trail network and interpretation is planned within the historic core. An overhead electrical transmission corridor passes through the southwest corner of the historic district.
Evaluation Industrial land use is no longer present within the Milford Mine Historic District. Remains of mine shafts, structures, railroad grades, and archaeological features associated with the mine’s industrial complex and its operations contribute to the historical significance of the district. Modern industrial land use would not be compatible with the historic district.
Residential land use is no longer present within the Milford Mine Historic District. Individual homes for mine workers and a boarding house for single men were present
PAGE 68 MILFORD MINE NATIONAL REGISTER HISTORIC DISTRICT CULTURAL LANDSCAPE REPORT during the district’s period of significance. Building remains and archaeological features associated with these former residences contribute to the historical significance of the district. Modern residential land use would not be compatible with the historic district.
Tourism and recreation is the primary current use of the Milford Mine property. An access road, parking areas, picnic shelter, boat launch, and trail network are the principal landscape elements associated with this use. These features neither date to the mine’s period of significance nor do they contribute to is historical significance. Existing elements were developed in consultation with SHPO and are screened from the historic core, thereby lessening the impact of these non-contributing features.
Public utilities are present within the historic district in the form of an active overhead transmission corridor that enters the west edge of the historic district just to the north of the main line railroad grade and then turns almost immediately to the southeast where it parallels a segment of the road to Manganese before continuing southeast beyond the district boundary. According to the 1939 aerial photograph, this corridor and a lower voltage transmission corridor that fed the mine site date to the historic district’s period of significance. However, the existing corridor does not appear to have had a direct connection to the mine site and hence does not contribute to the significance of the Milford Mine Historic District. This corridor is not visible from the historic core nor has it altered any of the contributing elements within the district so its presence does not detract from the district’s integrity. The transmission line that fed the mine site is no longer in use and its poles are no longer extant, although subsurface portions remain. These features contribute to the historical significance of the district. Modern public utilities would not be a compatible land use with the historic district.
Natural resource areas account for the majority of the current land use within the Milford Mine Historic District. Mixed deciduous and conifer forest, tamarack bogs, and wetland communities are present within the property. Historical accounts and images indicate that these vegetation communities were historically present, although their boundaries (particularly within the historic core) have changed over time, and invasive plant species are present. These natural resource areas contribute to the historical character of the Milford Mine Historic District.
VIEWS AND VISTAS Views are landscape characteristics that offer expansive or broad ranges of vision that may occur naturally or be intentionally designed, while vistas are controlled, discrete, linear ranges of vision that are deliberately contrived (Page et al. 1998:53, 150). There is no evidence of particular views or vistas being valued, maintained, or established within the Milford Mine Historic District’s period of significance beyond those that were necessary to the operations of the mine (e.g. clearances along rail grades).
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PAGE 70 MILFORD MINE NATIONAL REGISTER HISTORIC DISTRICT CULTURAL LANDSCAPE REPORT
CHAPTER 5 . ANALYSIS AND EVALUATION: STRUCTURE AND BUILDING REMAINS
Despite the intensive industrial activities that took place at the Milford Mine, all that remains today to document the mining operations and the lives of the mine’s workers are the ruins of buildings, rail grades, roads, and archaeological features within an industry- modified landscape that in many cases could easily be overlooked by visitors to the property. As described in the NPS bulletin Guidelines for Identifying, Evaluating, and Nominating Historic Mining Properties, although these individual components may appear to lack distinction, the combined impact of these separate features enables the property to convey the collective image of a historically significant mining operation. In essence, the whole of the property is greater than the sum of its parts (Noble and Spude 1992:19). This chapter documents the character-defining structure and building remains that contribute to the “whole.” The preservation and interpretation of these features will allow visitors to understand the mining complex and its historical significance.
The following features are evaluated in this chapter. The identification numbers/letters assigned to building remains in the National Register nomination are referenced in this document as well. Newly identified resources were assigned the next number/letter in the sequence.
. Roads . Railroads . Borrow Pits . Mine Shafts and Exploratory Drill Holes . Building Remains – Industrial Complex . Building Remains – Residential Complex . Storage Facility . Ore-Handling and Waste Rock Related Features . Timber Yard . Caved Ground . Water-Control Structures . Small-Scale Features . Archaeological Resources
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CIRCULATION – ROADS Circulation is the system of movement in a landscape and the spaces, features, and materials of which it is comprised (Page, et al., 1998:53, 128). Historically, circulation within the Milford Mine Historic District consisted of roads and rail lines. Existing access routes and trails, as well as proposed trails, in part follow the alignment of these historic routes (see Figures 37, 112, and 113).
ROAD TO WOLFORD A former road connecting the mine site to an early alignment of County Road 30 and the neighboring community of Wolford enters the historic district from the north.
Historic Condition The road to Wolford does not appear on either the 1913 or 1915 USGS quadrangles suggesting that it was constructed in conjunction with the development of the mine site c. 1917. This road initially ran in a nearly straight northeast/southwest alignment from just north of the mine’s Main Shaft to County Road 30. In the aftermath of the disaster, Milford Lake expanded into a slough that resulted from the hydraulic removal of surface material during the recovery efforts. This alteration of the landscape, together with the presence of caved ground over the mine, necessitated the creation a new section of roadway that went west around the end of the slough. On the 1925 map of the mine site, the road is only indicated to the north of the Soo Line grade, but both roadways are evident on the 1939 aerial photograph of the area (Figures 111-112).
Existing Condition Within the boundary of the Milford Mine Historic District and to the north of the Soo Line grade, the road to Wolford is largely inundated, but still discernible on aerial photographs. To the south of the rail grade, and the modern parking lot for the picnic shelter, the point at which the earlier and later alignments split is still evident. From the split, the remaining portion of the earlier alignment (to the north of the lake) has been incorporated into the approach to the picnic shelter and surfaced in gravel since the creation of the Milford Mine Memorial Park (Figure 49). The picnic shelter, a retaining wall, and a bench have been constructed at the end of the approach and over the former roadway. From the split, the later alignment leads westward where it terminates in the lake although its alignment through the bog is still discernible on modern aerial photographs (see Figures 37 and 50). The segment of the later road to the west of the picnic shelter is 12.5 ft. (3.8 m) wide. Soil cores extracted within this roadbed indicate that it was surfaced in unsorted gravels very similar to those used on the modern access road.
To the south of the west arm of Milford Lake, segments of both the earlier and later roadways are once again present but overgrown. Here, the later roadbed is more built- up and runs north-south, while the earlier segment is more depressed and follows the shore line (see Figures 37 and 112). The pre-disaster roadway is generally 10 ft. (3 m) across. The alignments rejoin just to the north of the waste rock pile. A shovel test within the roadbed to the south of the join recorded 8 in. (21 cm) of modern topsoil over a 5 in. (13 cm) thick roadbed of unsorted gravels.
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FIGURE 49. SEGMENT OF PRE-DISASTER ROAD TO WOLFORD THAT NOW FORMS THE APPROACH TO THE PICNIC SHELTER
FIGURE 50. SECTION OF POST-DISASTER ROAD TO WOLFORD, VIEW TO SOUTHWEST
Evaluation – Contributing Within the boundaries of the Milford Mine Historic District both the initial and later alignments of the Road to Wolford are discernible. The road is a distinctive character- defining feature of the Milford Mine Historic District that dates to the district’s historic period and which contributes to the sites historic setting and feeling. The path of the road can be discerned within the boundaries of the district, although portions are inundated and a portion obstructed by the picnic shelter. The overall integrity of the road to Wolford within the district is fair.
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Treatment Recommendations Within the boundary of the Milford Mine Historic District, the alignments of this former road should be kept clear of trees and brush as well as other elements that would obstruct or interrupt the view along the roadway
Trails constructed along this historic corridor should not alter its alignment, topography, or width. The use of asphalt pavement or other surface treatments incompatible with the period of significance should be avoided. If paths or trails are to be surfaced, the use of unsorted gravels like that originally present on the roadbed is recommended.
ROAD TO MANGANESE A former road connecting the mine site to the community of Manganese enters the historic district from the west.
Historic Condition The road to Manganese does not appear on either the 1913 or 1915 USGS quadrangles suggesting that it was constructed in conjunction with the development of the mine site c. 1917. The road parallels the railroad and main line and mine spur grades before diverging to pass around the south end of a wetland (see Figure 112). As the road approaches the mine site, it climbs up a slight slope at which point it joins the “main street” through the Milford location. The roadway is documented on the 1925 map of the Milford property and on the 1939 aerial photograph of the area (see Figures 111-112).
Existing Condition To the west of the Milford Mine Historic District, the alignment of the road to Manganese is maintained as an access by the private landowner. As the road enters the historic district from the west it is partially located within the cleared utility corridor. To the east of the utility corridor, the road traverses rolling, wooded uplands before reaching the historic core. Near the south end of the location, the original road made an almost ninety-degree angle. A modern trail has cut off this angle. The utility corridor and traffic from all-terrain vehicles has kept this two-track roadway open and clear with the exception of the occasional tree fall.
Evaluation – Contributing The road to Manganese is a distinctive character-defining feature of the Milford Mine Historic District that dates to the district’s historic period and which contributes to the sites historic setting and feeling. Within the boundaries of the historic district, the path of the road is clearly evident. Within the district, the overall integrity of this road is good.
Treatment Recommendations Within the boundary of the Milford Mine Historic District, the alignment of this former road should be kept clear of trees and brush as well as other elements that would obstruct or interrupt the view along the roadway.
Trails constructed along this historic corridor should not alter its alignment, topography, or width. The use of asphalt pavement or other surface treatments incompatible with the period of significance should be avoided. If paths or trails are to be surfaced, the use of unsorted gravels like that originally present on the roadbed is recommended.
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ROADS WITHIN THE HISTORIC CORE Within the mine’s historic core, a north-south road passes through the location. Connecting to the site’s “main street” are roads leading to the power house, the stockpile grounds, and the residential complex. Another roadway leads from the road to Manganese to the boarding house for single men and borrow pits in that portion of the site (see Figure 113).
Historic Condition None of the roads within the historic core are documented on the 1925 map of the Milford property (see Figure 111). The main street through the location, though, is evident in photographs taken at the time of the 1924 disaster and its route can be traced on the 1939 aerial (Figure 51). .
Due to heavy tree cover, the lanes to the power house, the stockpile grounds and the residential district are not apparent on the 1939 aerial, nor is the road near the boarding house. A portion of the latter road is a continuation of the access road documented on the 1913 USGS quadrangle.
Existing Condition All of the roadways within the historic core have become overgrown with vegetation (Figure 52). The roads and lanes, though, can still be clearly discerned with the exception of a portion of the roadway to the west of the Power House (Building 3), which is inundated. The main street through the location is approximately 40-45 ft. across, while the lanes are approximately 10 ft.
FIGURE 51. ROAD THROUGH MILFORD MINE LOCATION, VIEW TO NORTH, 1924
(MINNESOTA HISTORICAL SOCIETY)
PAGE 75 MILFORD MINE NATIONAL REGISTER HISTORIC DISTRICT CULTURAL LANDSCAPE REPORT
FIGURE 52. ROAD THROUGH MILFORD MINE LOCATION, VIEW TO NORTH, 2014
Shovel tests within the main street through the location revealed approximately 6 in. (15 cm) of modern topsoil over a 3-4 in. (8-10 cm) gravel roadbed that gave way to subsoil.
Evaluation – Contributing The roads and lanes within the historic core are distinctive character-defining features of the Milford Mine Historic District that date to the district’s historic period and which contribute to the site’s historic setting and feeling. Within the boundaries of the historic district, these roads are overgrown but still discernible. The overall integrity of these roads are good.
Treatment Recommendations The alignment of these former roads and lanes should be kept clear of trees and brush as well as other elements that would obstruct or interrupt the view along the roadway. In particular, trees within the central portion of the historic core and along the “main street” through the location should be cleared back to its edges to open up the sight lines and restore the setting and feeling of the property as documented in historic photographs taken at the time of the 1924 disaster (see Figure 51).
Any development should preserve and protect the drain pipe and drainage ditch that cross the road to the stockpile grounds.
Trails constructed along this historic corridor should not alter its alignment, topography, or width. The use of asphalt pavement or other surface treatments incompatible with the period of significance should be avoided. If paths or trails are to be surfaced, the use of unsorted gravels like that originally present on the roadbed is recommended.
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CIRCULATION – RAILROAD FEATURES A portion of the Minneapolis St. Paul and Sault Ste. Marie Railway Company (Soo Line) railroad grade and two railroad spur tracks are present within the boundary of the Milford Mine Historic District.
SOO LINE RAILROAD GRADE AND TRESTLE A ¾-mile-long segment of Soo Line railroad grade is located within the boundaries of the Milford Mine Historic District.
Historic Condition Railroad construction in the north Cuyuna Range was initially undertaken by the Cuyuna Iron Range Railway Company, which was formed in 1908 (Walker 1979:252-253). In 1910, the Minneapolis St. Paul and Sault Ste. Marie Railway Company (Soo Line) purchased the completed Cuyuna line (Schmidt et al.:2007:E116; Walker 1979:253; Welton 1992b:36). The rail line to Milford Mine was part of a loop constructed in 1913 that commenced approximately 1 mile west of Iron Hub and looped northward around the north end of Rabbit Lake. It serviced Milford Mine, the community of Manganese, and mines at Trommald (Welton 1992b:24-25). On the day of the Milford Mine Disaster, Annie (Minerich) Tomac walked this rail grade from Manganese to the mine to check on her husband, Mike Tomac, who was killed in the cave-in (Aulie 1994:48). This line went out of service between 1930 and 1937 (Welton 1992b:24).
Existing Condition Within the Milford Mine Historic District boundary, the Soo Line’s main grade exhibits typical cut-and-fill construction techniques consisting of cuts through uplands and the use of the fill removed from those cuts and introduced material to build up the grade through lowlands and wet areas. As the rail grade enters the district from the west, it is a built-up, elevated grade. Ties are still present in places, but the rails have been removed. Approximately 500 ft. from the west edge of the district, an approximately 700-ft.-long trestle carried the line over an inlet of Island Lake (see Figure 112). While this trestle is no longer extant, the footings of some of the trestle’s bents are still visible above the water. Continuing east from the trestle, the next 2,000 feet of the rail grade was built-up with fill as the line traversed the wetlands that now form the north shore of Milford Lake. Soil borings conducted along this section of the grade in 2008 documented seven to thirteen feet of peat, which is consistent with documented Cuyuna Line construction techniques in which “across the big swamps, the muck or peat was borrowed along the embankment and made into the embankment” (Welton 1992a:35). Near the east edge of the district, the railroad grade cuts through an upland and then crosses a small segment of built-up grade before exiting the district boundary. While the height and width of the subgrade varies depending on the topography, the bed is generally 20 ft. wide, with the width at the top of the deepest cut near the east edge of the district being approximately 50 ft.
The portion of the rail grade along the north side of Milford Lake has been converted to a park access road, which necessitated the introduction of fill in those areas that had become inundated and eroded by water action. The overall trajectory of the grade and its cut through the eastern upland was maintained. This segment has been surfaced in gravel (Figures 53 and 54).
PAGE 77 MILFORD MINE NATIONAL REGISTER HISTORIC DISTRICT CULTURAL LANDSCAPE REPORT
FIGURE 53. SOO LINE GRADE, VIEW TO WEST, 2009
FIGURE 54. SOO LINE GRADE, VIEW TO WEST, 2014
Evaluation - Contributing The Soo Line Grade and Trestle are distinctive character-defining features of the Milford Mine Historic District that date to the district’s historic period and are fundamentally associated with the mine’s operations. The segment of the grade within the district’s boundary was identified in the National Register nomination as a contributing structure. Within the boundaries of the district, the entire length of the grade can be discerned and its overall integrity within the district is good.
PAGE 78 MILFORD MINE NATIONAL REGISTER HISTORIC DISTRICT CULTURAL LANDSCAPE REPORT
Treatment Recommendations Within the boundary of the Milford Mine Historic District, trees and brush should be cleared from the rail grade to maintain its setting and feeling, and the grade should be kept free of elements that would obstruct or interrupt the view along the rail corridor.
Trails constructed along this rail grade should not alter its alignment, topography, or width. The use of asphalt pavement or other surface treatments incompatible with the period of significance should be avoided. If paths or trails are to be surfaced, the use of crushed rock/ballast is recommended.
MINE SPUR Near the west boundary of the district, a spur track that serviced the mine diverges from the Soo Line’s main grade.
Historic Condition The most detailed description of the mine’s spur track is provided by the 1925 base map of the Milford property (A.O.A. 1965) (Figures 55). This map illustrates how the mine’s spur track split into a run-around track and a loading track. The map indicates that the east end of the spur is built up with fill. A trailing-point spur off of the run-around track is also present that likely serviced the Power House (Building 3).
Loading of the ore cars took place on the loading track which passed beneath the headframe. Due to insufficient clearance, locomotives did not pass under the headframe. Rather, the locomotive pushed empty ore cars along the run-around track (Figure 56). One by one, the empty cars were then released and allowed to coast from the elevated east end of the spur downhill onto the loading track. A mine worker rode the car and stopped it beneath the head frame by use of a hand brake. Once loaded, gravity carried the car to where it was held for pick up (Railroad and Warehouse Commission 1914:152; 1932:35).
Existing Condition The entire length of the spur grade is visible although its tracks and ties have been removed. Like the main line, the spur uses cut-and-fill construction techniques. As the spur approaches the mine entrance it cuts through three uplands, and fill was used to build up the grade through the intervening wetlands. Along this segment the grade is generally 16 ft. (5 m) across.
At, and east of, the mine’s main shaft, the elevated grade necessary to feed cars by gravity back down the loading track becomes apparent (Figure 57). At this point the railroad bed (top) is generally 25 ft. (7.6 m) across. Between the highest (easternmost) point of the grade and the main shaft, the separation and descent of the northernmost loading track is apparent. A shovel/auger test placed near the east end of the mine’s spur grade documented that it was constructed of silty sand and sand. A horizon of cinders in a matrix of gley is present at a depth of 19.7-25.6 in. (50-65 cm).
PAGE 79 MILFORD MINE NATIONAL REGISTER HISTORIC DISTRICT CULTURAL LANDSCAPE REPORT
Loading Track
Run-Around Track Trailing-Point Spur
FIGURE 55. MINE SPUR TRACKS ON DETAIL FROM THE 1925 MILFORD MINE MAP
Evaluation - Contributing The mine’s spur track is a distinctive character-defining feature of the Milford Mine Historic District that dates to the district’s historic period and which is fundamentally associated with the mine’s operations. The entire length of the grade can be discerned and its overall integrity is good. The integrity of the mine spur grade is good.
Treatment Recommendations Trees and brush should be cleared from the rail grade to maintain its setting and feeling, and the grade should be kept free of elements that would obstruct or interrupt the view along the rail corridor. Trails constructed along this rail grade should not alter its alignment, topography, or width. The use of asphalt pavement or other surface treatments incompatible with the period of significance should be avoided. If paths or trails are to be surfaced, the use of crushed rock/ballast is recommended.
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FIGURE 56. MILFORD MINERS STANDING TO THE SOUTH OF THE MINE SPUR L TO R: SUPERINTENDANT HARRY MIDDLEBROOK, STEVE ‘BUBASH’ PERPICH, MARTIN VALENCICH, FRANK HRVATIN JR., GUST SNYDER, JACOB RAVNICK AND CLYDE REVORD.
(CUYUNA COUNTRY HERITAGE PRESERVATION SOCIETY)
FIGURE 57. ELEVATED EAST END OF THE MINE SPUR, VIEW TO EAST, 2009
PAGE 81 MILFORD MINE NATIONAL REGISTER HISTORIC DISTRICT CULTURAL LANDSCAPE REPORT
POST-DISASTER SPUR Near the east boundary of the district, another spur track departs from the main line and heads southwest where it terminates at the lakeshore.
Historic Condition Immediately following the Milford Mine disaster, The Duluth Herald (8 Feb 1924) reported that “Special tracks have been laid by the Soo Line right up to the lakeshore to facilitate shipment and removal of the pumps and the delivery of the pipes” for dewatering the mine. The laying of this track was undertaken by a rail crew from Mahnomen under the direction of Superintendent T. Slaughter and roadmaster James Branley (Crosby Courier, 15 Feb 1924). No detailed information on the location of the post-disaster track has been located and a 1924 photograph of rail cars on the track does not include any buildings or landscape features that could be used to locate it (St. Paul Pioneer Press, 7 Feb 1924). However a spur track is documented on the 1925 base map of the Milford Mine property to the north of Milford Lake (A.O.A. 1965) (Figure 58). Based on its configuration which terminates at the lakeshore, it is presumed that this is the referenced post-disaster spur track.
Existing Condition Near its junction with the main line, this spur is built up, but the majority of the spur consists of a trench cut through an upland. The bed of the spur is approximately 12 ft. wide, with a total width of 35 ft. at the top of the cut. The west end of the spur, which juts into the lake toward the location of the mine collapse, is constructed on fill. The entire length of the spur grade is visible, although tracks and ties have been removed. Since the creation of the Milford Mine Memorial Park, the spur has been converted to a trail and surfaced in gravel except for the westernmost 45 ft. (13.7 m), which is covered in
FIGURE 58. POST-DISASTER SPUR TRACK (ARROW) ON 1925 MILFORD MINE MAP
PAGE 82 MILFORD MINE NATIONAL REGISTER HISTORIC DISTRICT CULTURAL LANDSCAPE REPORT low vegetation (Figures 59 and 60). A short gravel-surfaced path leads from the grade to a picnic table with a cooking grill. The construction of this spur trail and the placement of the picnic table does not interrupt the sight lines along the corridor. Likewise, a bench placed at the west end of the post-disaster spur was placed to the side of the grade rather than across it so that it does not interrupt the view towards the location of the disaster (Figures 61and 62).
Evaluation – Contributing The post-disaster spur grade is a distinctive character-defining feature of the Milford Mine Historic District that not only dates to the district’s historic period, but which is also directly associated with the historic event of the 1924 disaster.
FIGURE 59. POST-DISASTER SPUR GRADE, 2009, VIEW TO NORTHEAST
FIGURE 60. POST-DISASTER SPUR GRADE, 2014, VIEW TO NORTHEAST
PAGE 83 MILFORD MINE NATIONAL REGISTER HISTORIC DISTRICT CULTURAL LANDSCAPE REPORT
FIGURE 61. WEST END OF POST-DISASTER SPUR, 2009
FIGURE 62. WEST END OF POST-DISASTER SPUR, 2014
Treatment Recommendations The post-disaster spur should be kept free of trees and brush in order to maintain its setting and feeling, and the grade should be kept free of elements that would obstruct or interrupt the view along the rail corridor.
Trails constructed along this rail grade should not alter its alignment or topography. The use of asphalt pavement or other surface treatments incompatible with the period of significance should be avoided. If paths or trails are to be surfaced, the use of crushed rock/ballast is recommended.
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BORROW PITS FOR RAIL GRADE AND ROAD CONSTRUCTION Two irregularly shaped borrow pits are located on the upland landform to the west of the historic core and the boarding house for single men (see Figures 112-113). The northern pit is located adjacent to the mine spur grade, and the material from this pit was likely used to fill the wetlands during the construction of the grade. The southern pit is located adjacent to the road to Manganese, and the material from this pit was likely used in the construction of the roadbed.
Historic Condition The borrow pits are not documented on photographs or maps of the Milford property. Small clearings associated with the borrow pits appear on the 1939 aerial photograph, but trees already appear to be encroaching on them indicating that they were not in use.
Existing Condition The borrow pits are overgrown and wooded, but the generally level interior portion of the pits and the edges the cuts are distinct within the otherwise generally rolling topography.
Evaluation – Contributing The borrow pits are a character-defining feature of the Milford Mine Historic District that date to the district’s historic period.
Treatment Recommendations The remains of the borrow pits should be preserved and protected from disturbance and monitored for erosion.
MINE SHAFTS AND EXPLORATORY DRILL HOLES At the time of the 1924 disaster, the Milford Mine had a single shaft. As a mine developed, it was customary to add additional entrances and records indicated two additional mine shafts (Timber Shaft No. 1 and No. 2) within the Milford Mine complex.
MAIN SHAFT AND HEADFRAME (SHAFT HOUSE)
The Milford Mine’s principal shaft is located within the northern portion of the industrial complex and to the north of the mine’s spur tracks (see Figures 111-113).
Historic Condition The main shaft of the Milford Mine was sunk in 1918. Standing over the shaft’s opening was the headframe (or shaft house)(Figures 63 and 64 ). The headframe is essential to the operation of an underground mine as it supports the sheave wheels over which the cables run that raise and lower the “cage” that transports miners and the “skip” that carries the mined ore and waste rock. Ore cars were also loaded at the headframe. The headframe of the Milford Mine was enclosed and in historical photographs appears to be covered with corrugated sheet metal, which was typical of the era. Photographs also document at least one timber-framed stanchion to the south of the headframe (see Figure 63). The stanchion supported the steel cables leading from the hoist to the headframe. The interior workings of the headframe are not documented.
PAGE 85 MILFORD MINE NATIONAL REGISTER HISTORIC DISTRICT CULTURAL LANDSCAPE REPORT
FIGURE 63. HEADFRAME OVER THE MILFORD MINE’S MAIN SHAFT, VIEW TO THE SOUTHWEST, 1924 (STANCHION CIRCLED)
(MINNESOTA HISTORICAL SOCIETY)
FIGURE 64. MILFORD HEADFRAME AND OVERHEAD TRESTLES, VIEW TO SOUTH, UNDATED
(CROFT MINE HISTORICAL PARK)
PAGE 86 MILFORD MINE NATIONAL REGISTER HISTORIC DISTRICT CULTURAL LANDSCAPE REPORT
Existing Condition The Milford Mine’s headframe has been removed and no evidence of it is present on the surface although corrugated sheet metal and a timber element located to the immediate south of the mine shaft may be related to the former structure.
At present, the main shaft of the Milford Mine is an opening within the ground surrounded by a fence secured to cast iron pipes used as posts. Both historic and modern “DANGER/ KEEP OUT” signs are affixed to the fence (Figure 65). The fenced area is approximately 36-by-42.6-ft. (11-by-13-m) and trees, including a large birch, have grown up within the enclosure (Figure 66). Subsidence since the mine shaft was secured is evident beyond the fence on the north side of the enclosure. Three standard gauge railroad rails span the shaft opening from east to west. Fencing was placed over these rails to secure the opening, but it has been removed and pulled up in several places.
Visible within the mine shaft’s opening are in- place pipes (including a large stack/ventilation pipe), shoring, and other artifacts (Figures 67- 68). The presence of these elements indicates FIGURE 65. “DANGER CAVED GROUND that at the time the shaft was abandoned only KEEP OUT” SIGN, MAIN SHAFT the above-grade features were removed.
FIGURE 67. CLUMP OF TREES MARKING FIGURE 66. LARGE DIAMETER PIPE MAIN SHAFT LOCATION, VIEW TO WEST- PROJECTING FROM MAIN SHAFT OPENING SOUTHWEST
PAGE 87 MILFORD MINE NATIONAL REGISTER HISTORIC DISTRICT CULTURAL LANDSCAPE REPORT
FIGURE 68. PIPES WITHIN THE ENTRANCE OF THE MAIN SHAFT
(BRYAN PIKE, CROW WING COUNTY)
Beyond the fenced enclosure, utility/service trenches leading to/from the mine shaft are visible to the south and east of the enclosure.
The location of the former stanchion is marked by a depression located to the south of the main shaft and the grade of the mine spur. This 5-ft. deep hole is approximately 8 ft. (2.4 m) across from north to south and 9 ft. (2.7 m) from east to west and situated along the utility trench that leads from the Engine (Hoist) House to the shaft.
Evaluation - Contributing The mine shafts are among the most significant contributing elements to the Milford Mine Historic District and no visible feature is more directly associated with the significant event of the 1924 disaster than the entrance to the main shaft (Figure 69). It was from this opening that the seven miners who managed to escape the disaster emerged, the last one waist deep in water and mud. It was into this opening, filled within 15 ft. of the surface with water, that families of the lost gazed in shock. And it was down this shaft that miners returned to retrieve the bodies of the lost. As remains were brought to the surface, FIGURE 69. PHOTOGRAPH OF THE MAIN SHAFT’S they were cared for at a temporary ENTRANCE AND CAGE FOLLOWING THE 1924 morgue, which was set up at the DISASTER, mine’s entrance. (PIONEER PRESS, 7 FEB 1924)
PAGE 88 MILFORD MINE NATIONAL REGISTER HISTORIC DISTRICT CULTURAL LANDSCAPE REPORT
Treatment Recommendations As the most significant characteristic of the mine shafts are the openings themselves together with the workings and features still evident within the shaft openings, it is recommended that a treatment plan be devised that stabilizes, preserves and protects the mine entrance while keeping the opening and its elements visible. The following specific treatment recommendations are provided for the mine shaft.
. Remove the trees within the fenced enclosures and within at least a 20 ft. radius of the shaft opening. Vegetation should be cut to grade (not pulled) and treated with herbicide, as necessary, to prevent regrowth. In order to protect archaeological resources, stumps should not be pulled or ground and the use of heavy equipment should be avoided.
. Repair or replace the existing rail and mesh fencing with a similar rail and grate system of a heavier grade and set at an elevation that clears the stack/ventilation pipe in the main shaft so that feature will be protected and remain in place.
. Repair or replace the fence around the mine shafts with a similar construction to that present.
. The pipe used for fence posts and the rail utilized to secure the mine shaft are repurposed materials from the mine. As they are artifacts of the mine’s operations, those that cannot be reused in securing the shaft, should be retained for interpretation.
. Protect and preserve the trench/utility ditch running to/from the east and south sides of the shaft entrance. Where trails cross these shallow trenches, a culvert should be placed within the trench to continue drainage and prevent disturbance to this feature. Where trails cross deeper ditches, like that to the south of the main shaf, a small platform bridge is recommended. Efforts should be made to limit subsurface impacts from the construction of the element. If footings are necessary, archaeological testing will be conducted prior to their excavation.
. Protect the ground surface around the mine where features related to the headframe and possibly artifacts from the post-disaster recovery may be preserved
. Retain the historic KEEP OUT/DANGER signs and reattach them to the fence (see Figure 65).
. Interpretive signage incorporating photos of the headframe and mine entrance could be affixed to the fence or mounted adjacent.
. Monitor the area around the shaft for further subsidence. If subsidence or erosion occurs, develop and implement a stabilization plan.
PAGE 89 MILFORD MINE NATIONAL REGISTER HISTORIC DISTRICT CULTURAL LANDSCAPE REPORT
TIMBER SHAFT NO. 1
Timber Shaft No. 1 is located approximately 500 ft. east of the main shaft along the west shore of Milford Lake (see Figures 111-113).
Historic Condition Historical information on Timber Shaft No. 1 is limited. No photographs or detailed descriptions of this shaft were encountered during this study. At the time of the 1924 disaster, it was documented that a second mine shaft was planned (Aulie 1994:161). The appearance of this shaft on the 1925 base map suggests it was present by that year (A.O.A. 1965) (see Figure 111). The sinking of this shaft likely occurred during the post- disaster rehabilitation of the mine c. 1924/25. According to the 1939 aerial photograph a small structure was present over this mine entrance.
Existing Condition Timber Shaft No. 1 consists of an opening within the ground enclosed by a wire mesh fence (Figure 70). The fence enclosure is 23 ft. (7 m) by 36 ft. (11 m), while the inundated shaft is 15 ft. (4.5 m) by 20 ft. (6 m). There is a break in the fence on the east side of the enclosure, and the west side is bowed out. Trees have grown up within the fenced enclosure (Figure 71). Historic and modern DANGER / KEEP OUT signs are affixed to the fencing (Figure 72). Timber shoring and pipes are visible within the shaft’s opening (Figures 73).
Evaluation: Contributing The mine shafts are among the most significant contributing elements to the Milford Mine Historic District. Timber Shaft No. 1 is a distinctive character-defining feature of the district that date to the period of significance and exhibits good integrity.
FIGURE 70. FENCING AROUND TIMBER SHAFT NO. 1, VIEW TO SOUTHEAST
PAGE 90 MILFORD MINE NATIONAL REGISTER HISTORIC DISTRICT CULTURAL LANDSCAPE REPORT
FIGURE 71. COPSE OF TREES MARKING THE LOCATION OF TIMBER SHAFT NO. 1, VIEW TO EAST
FIGURE 72. MODERN AND HISTORIC WARNING SIGNS, TIMBER SHAFT NO. 1
FIGURE 73. SHORING WITHIN THE ENTRANCE OF TIMBER SHAFT NO. 2
(BRYAN PIKE, CROW WING COUNTY)
PAGE 91 MILFORD MINE NATIONAL REGISTER HISTORIC DISTRICT CULTURAL LANDSCAPE REPORT
Treatment Recommendations For treatment guidelines for Timber Shaft No. 1 see the recommendations for the Main Shaft.
TIMBER SHAFT NO. 2
Timber Shaft No. 2 is located along the north shore of Milford Lake in the SW ¼ of the SE ¼ of Section 23 (see Figure 112).
Historic Condition Historical information on Timber Shaft No. 2 is limited. No photographs or detailed descriptions of this shaft were located during this study. The shaft is not documented on a 1925 base map of the Milford Mine (A.O.A. 1965). Timber Shaft No. 2 is located on the Foley Mine parcel which was not leased by the Amherst Mining Company until January of 1926 (Price, Waterhouse & Co. 1927:2). According to the 1928 annual report, underground connections had been made to Timber Shaft No. 2 by that year indicating it was sunk in 1926/27 (Middlebrook 1929:1). The location of the shaft is recorded on a map of the mine’s underground workings created in 1946 (G.W.C. 1946).
Existing Condition The site of Timber Shaft No. 2 is presently encompassed by Milford Lake.
Evaluation - Indeterminate The location of Timber Shaft No. 2 cannot be evaluated at this time. However, should any feature related to Timber Shaft No. 2 having historical integrity be identified in the future, it should be considered contributing to the district as a character-defining feature of the Milford Mine Historic District that dates to the district’s historic period.
Treatment Recommendations No treatment recommendations are provided for Timber Shaft No. 2 at this time. The County should be aware of its location in case it should become a visible (and a potential hazard) during periods of low water.
EXPLORATORY DRILL HOLES The results of exploratory drilling defined the extent of the ore body both horizontally and vertically and guided mine development.
Historic Condition The 1925 base map of the Milford Mine property, which is the most encompassing of the maps illustrating the mine’s works, records 48 exploration drill holes (A.O.A. 1965) (see Figure 111).
Existing Condition The locations of the majority of the exploratory drill holes are presently within Milford Lake or adjoining wetlands. The location of one of the exploration drill holes (No. 551) has been identified (Depression P) (see Figure 113). This feature is located midway
PAGE 92 MILFORD MINE NATIONAL REGISTER HISTORIC DISTRICT CULTURAL LANDSCAPE REPORT between the mine’s Main Shaft and Timber Shaft No. 2. The feature consists of a cast iron pipe (the collar or casing for the boring) within a deep, circular depression. A piece of sheet metal serves as a cover (Figure 74).
No additional exploration drill holes were identified during the fieldwork but two borings (No. 550 and 574) may be present to the north rock pile, and two borings (No. 548 and 564) may be located to the east of the Picnic Shelter and its approach on the north side of Milford Lake.
FIGURE 74. CASING OF EXPLORATORY DRILL HOLE NO. 551 (DEPRESSION P)
(BRYAN PIKE, CROW WING COUNTY)
Evaluation – Contributing Exploratory drilling using diamond and churn drilling was the first step in identifying the extent of ore deposits on the Cuyuna Range (The Commercial West, 4 March 1905). Exploratory Drill Hole No. 551 (Depression P), and any additional drill holes identified in the future, should be considered character-defining features of the Milford Mine Historic District that date to the district’s historic period and is fundamentally associated with the mine’s development.
Treatment Recommendations The location of Drill Hole No. 551 should be fenced for safety given that it is a deep depression containing an open pipe and located proximate to a proposed trail. With SHPO’s concurrence, it is recommended that an open wire fence like that used around the main shaft and Timber Shaft No. 1, be constructed around this feature. If additional exploraty drill holes are identified within the park, a similar treatment should be considered depending on their condition. All such features should be monitored for additional caving.
It is recommended that the role of exploratory drilling be interpreted at the site of Drill Hole No. 551. If either of the drill holes proximate to the picnic shelter are identified in the future, they should also be considered for interpretation.
PAGE 93 MILFORD MINE NATIONAL REGISTER HISTORIC DISTRICT CULTURAL LANDSCAPE REPORT
BUILDING REMAINS – INDUSTRIAL COMPLEX Within the historic core, the Milford Mine site is divided into industrial and residential clusters. The industrial complex is situated at the north end of the upland occupied by the mine and encompasses those buildings necessary to the mine’s operation.
MACHINE SHOP / BLACKSMITH SHOP (BUILDING 1) Building 1 is located to the east of the main mine shaft (see Figure 113).
Historic Condition The presence of machinery bases within the interior of this building’s foundations indicates that it housed shops where mining equipment was maintained and repaired. A drill press, power hacksaw, drill sharpener, power grinder, and two blacksmith vises listed in the 1938 plant inventory may have been in this building (Whitmarsh Mining Company 1938:3). This building does not appear on the 1925 map of the mine site, suggesting that it post-dates that year. No photographs of this building have been located, although it appears on the 1939 aerial photograph.
Existing Condition The foundation of this rectangular, east-west oriented building measures 60 ft. 8 in. (18.5 m) by 24 ft. 7 in. (7.5 m) (Figure 75). The foundation is poured concrete and measures 14 in. wide. A raised 8-in.-wide lip atop this foundation indicates the width of the building’s exterior walls. The west third (20 ft.) of the building has a dirt floor. A large door was centered on the north wall of the west section of the building, as indicated by an 8 ft. 8 in.-long segment of steel rail set into the north foundation. Based on comparison with buildings at contemporary mine sites, the half of the building with the earth floor was likely used as the blacksmith shop. The east two-thirds of the building have a poured-concrete floor. Joist scars (2.5 in. wide) in this portion of the building are spaced 2 ft. on center and indicate the presence of a raised wood floor. Raised, poured- concrete platforms with threaded bolts for mounting machinery are located along the south and west edges of this room. A single electrical ground located adjacent to the three southern machinery mounts suggests that they supported a single piece of equipment. The western mount has fire brick along its west edge, indicating a heat source. Two electrical grounds are located adjacent to a 2 ft. 5 in. square opening in the floor in the northwest corner of this room.
Evaluation – Contributing The remains of Building 1 are a distinctive character-defining feature of the Milford Mine Historic District that date to the period of significance and exhibits good integrity.
Treatment Recommendations The area around and within this foundation needs to be cleared of vegetation by cutting to grade (not pulling). Treat vegetation with herbicide, as necessary, to prevent regrowth. In order to protect archaeological resources, stumps should not be pulled or ground, and the use of heavy equipment should be avoided.
A treatment plan for the preservation and stabilization of these structural remains should be developed and implemented.
PAGE 94 MILFORD MINE NATIONAL REGISTER HISTORIC DISTRICT CULTURAL LANDSCAPE REPORT
1) UILDING (B HOP S LACKSMITH B
/ HOP S ACHINE M LAN OF P
75. IGURE F
PAGE 95 MILFORD MINE NATIONAL REGISTER HISTORIC DISTRICT CULTURAL LANDSCAPE REPORT
ENGINE (HOIST) HOUSE (BUILDING 2) The Engine (Hoist) House of the Milford Mine is located atop a rise south of the main mine entrance and the mine’s spur track (see Figure 113).
Historic Condition This building housed the hoisting system, air compressors, and other equipment. This building is labeled as the Engine House on the 1925 base map of the Milford property and is present on the 1939 aerial photograph of the site (see Figure 111). According to historical photographs, the building was hip-roofed and featured two ventilation stacks (Figure 76).
The hoisting engine winds and unwinds the cable wrapped around the drum thus raising and lowering the “cage” that transported miners and the “skip” that carried the mined ore. The Milford Mine initially had a steam-powered hoist, which according to the 1938 inventory was a National Iron Company Hoist with a 5 x 4 ft. drum (Whitmarsh Mining Company 1938:2). In time, the mine converted to electric power and an Ottumwa Iron Works Hoist with a 5 x 5 ft. drum was installed (Whitmarsh Mining Company 1938:2). According to a 1922 letter, the Miford had “electric motor generators” suggesting the conversion took place by that year (Aulie 1994:20).
Air compressors located within the Engine House provided the pneumatic drills, tuggers, and other equipment in the mine with the compressed air that they needed to operate. The compressed air was pumped to the underground workings via pipes.
FIGURE 76. THE ENGINE HOUSE (ARROW) IN AN UNDATED PHOTOGRAPH OF THE MILFORD MINE, VIEW TO NORTH
(CUYUNA IRON RANGE HERITAGE NETWORK)
PAGE 96 MILFORD MINE NATIONAL REGISTER HISTORIC DISTRICT CULTURAL LANDSCAPE REPORT
Existing Condition Projecting from the center of the north foundation of this building is the 18 ft. (5.5 m)-by- 24 ft. (7.3 m) foundation of the hoisting room (Figure 77). An opening in the floor housed the hoist drum, which was supported on reinforced concrete foundations. The floor to the west of the drum has a crawl space beneath it for utilities. The floor above this crawl space and surrounding the hoist is reinforced with lengths of rail like that used in the mine for tramming ore.
The main, east-west oriented, portion of the Hoist House measures approximately 9.2 m (30 ft.) by 18.6 m (61 ft.). The interior of the building has sections of poured concrete floor. The foundation, which varies in thickness from 12-in. to 14-in. is also form-poured concrete. The exterior of the foundation of the Hoist House is painted red, while yellow overpaint along the upper edge of the foundation suggests the upper portion of the building was painted yellow.
Within the building, east-west and north-south 2.5-ft.-wide channels within the floor, through which steam pipes and other conduit ran, divide the interior space (see Figure 77). While the floor space within the north-central and southwest portions of the building is devoid of features, the northwest and southeast corners of the building contain a series of pipe fittings and electrical conduit. This area may have housed the switchboards.
The dominant features within the interior of the building are two raised, 6 ft.-square, “U” shaped stone and mortar machinery mounts and associated rectangular pads located in the northeast quarter of the building (Figures 78-79). The “U” shaped bases supported two belt-driven air compressors and the smaller rectangle the motor that powered the belt. These mounts are consistent with the two Ingersoll-Rand Imperial type XB air compressors powered by 50 HP Allis-Chalmers motors listed in the 1938 inventory of the mine’s equipment (Whitmarsh Mining Company 1938:1). Another machinery mount is located west of the “U” shaped bases. This mount is consistent with the Sullivan Class WH3 Straight Line Compressor powered by a 50 HP Westinghouse motor listed in the 1938 inventory of the mine’s equipment (Whitmarsh Mining Company 1938:1). Two additional machinery footings are present in the south-central portion of the building.
Exterior to the Hoist House, two poured-concrete supports for a tank are located adjacent to the west wall of the building. To the southeast of the building, a rectangular concrete and stone feature reinforced with mine rail is present. This 2.5 ft.-wide by 11 ft. 8 in.-long feature bears yellow paint on its south face. Pipes and guy wire anchors were also documented in the area immediately surrounding the Hoist House.
The condition of the Hoist House remains is fair. Vegetation and the freeze-thaw cycle are taking a toll on the structural remains. The foundation, particularly at the northwest and northeast corners is failing and portions of the foundation have collapsed outward (Figure 80). Sections of concrete floor within the building are collapsing into voids beneath them. The machinery mounts (particularly those of the Ingersoll-Rand compressors) are extremely friable and actively degrading.
PAGE 97 MILFORD MINE NATIONAL REGISTER HISTORIC DISTRICT CULTURAL LANDSCAPE REPORT
FIGURE 77. PLAN OF THE ENGINE (HOIST) HOUSE (BUILDING 2)
PAGE 98 MILFORD MINE NATIONAL REGISTER HISTORIC DISTRICT CULTURAL LANDSCAPE REPORT
FIGURE 78. WEST INGERSOLL RAND COMPRESSOR BASE, VIEW TO SOUTH, 2009
FIGURE 79. WEST INGERSOLL RAND COMPRESSOR BASE, VIEW TO SOUTH, 2014
Evaluation - Contributing After the mine shaft and headframe, the Engine (Hoist) House is the most fundamental structure to the mine’s operation. As such, the remains of Engine House are a distinctive character-defining feature of the Milford Mine Historic District that date to the district’s historic period and are fundamentally associated with the mine’s operations. While the remains of this building still conveys its purpose and hold significant research and interpretation potential, their continued deterioration poses an imminent threat to the integrity of this significant feature.
PAGE 99 MILFORD MINE NATIONAL REGISTER HISTORIC DISTRICT CULTURAL LANDSCAPE REPORT
FIGURE 80. COLLAPSED NORTHEAST CORNER OF THE HOIST HOUSE FOUNDATION, VIEW TO SOUTHWEST
Treatment Recommendations The area around and within this foundation needs to be cleared of vegetation. Any trees, saplings, or brush growing within or immediate to the foundations should be removed. All vegetation should be removed by cutting to grade (not pulled). Treat with herbicide, as necessary, to prevent regrowth. In order to protect archaeological resources, stumps should not be pulled or ground and the use of heavy equipment should be avoided.
A treatment plan for the preservation and stabilization of these structural remains should be developed and implemented as soon as possible.
POWER HOUSE (BUILDING 3) The Power House is located down slope and to the west of the Hoist House (Building 2).
Historic Condition This building appears on the 1925 map of the Milford Mine property, but its label is not decipherable (see Figure 111). In historical photographs, the distinctive feature of this gable-roofed building is its several stacks which suggest (together with its location) that it was the mine’s power house (Figure 81). Boilers housed in this building would have generated steam to power the hoist, compressors, and other equipment in the Hoist House, and it most likely provided heat for the Dry House as well.
PAGE 100 MILFORD MINE NATIONAL REGISTER HISTORIC DISTRICT CULTURAL LANDSCAPE REPORT
FIGURE 81. THE POWER HOUSE (ARROW) IN AN UNDATED PHOTOGRAPH OF THE MILFORD MINE, VIEW TO NORTH
(CUYUNA IRON RANGE HERITAGE NETWORK)
Existing Condition At present, the location of the Power House is largely inundated, but visible machinery mounts, foundation segments, brick scatters, and imbedded vertical cast iron pipes indicate that structural remains of the building are present. Stamped firebricks noted within the remains of the Power House bore the marks of the Laclede-Christy Clay Products Company of St. Louis, Missouri, and the Edwards Brick Company of Columbia, Missouri.
Evaluation – Contributing The remains of the Power House are a distinctive character-defining feature of the Milford Mine Historic District that date to the district’s historic period and are fundamentally associated with the mine’s operations.
Treatment Recommendations If during drier periods, the remains of this structure are visible, they should be documented and a treatment plan devised for them.
Interpretation could indicate the location of this former structure; discuss changes in sources of power (steam to electricity); and illustrate how the landscape has changed (higher water table) since the mine’s closure.
PAGE 101 MILFORD MINE NATIONAL REGISTER HISTORIC DISTRICT CULTURAL LANDSCAPE REPORT
WATER TANK (BUILDING 4) The water tank of the Milford Mine is located due south of the Hoist House (Building 2) and to the west of the Dry House (Building 5) (see Figure 113).
Historic Condition This elevated water tank would have maintained water pressure within the mine site. According to the 1938 equipment inventory, the mine’s 15,000 gallon wood water tank stood atop a 30 ft. steel tower (Whitmarsh Mining Company 1938:1). Given its height, the water tank appears in several historical-period photographs of the mine site (Figure 82).
Existing Condition The location of the former water tank is indicated by the presence of four poured- concrete piers that supported the tower’s legs (Figure 83). The piers mark the four corners of a square and are spaced approximately 12 ft. (3.6 m) apart. These piers average 2.5 ft. (76 cm) on a side, have a beveled upper edge, and each is set with a 1- in.-diameter steel bar inset 10.5 inches from the sides and offset toward the corner most proximate to the center of the square. A depression in the center of the square formed by the piers indicates the location of the central pipe and frost box (enclosure around the vertical pipes to keep them from freezing). Trenches for water pipes run from this central depression north to the Hoist House and east toward the Dry House.
A 10 in. diameter section of culvert protrudes from the ground approximately 2 ft. to the northwest of the southwest footing of the water tank. A 1-in. diameter pipe set in the ground is present within the interior of the culvert.
FIGURE 82. THE WATER TANK (ARROW) IN AN UNDATED PHOTOGRAPH OF THE MILFORD MINE, VIEW TO NORTH
(CUYUNA IRON RANGE HERITAGE NETWORK)
PAGE 102 MILFORD MINE NATIONAL REGISTER HISTORIC DISTRICT CULTURAL LANDSCAPE REPORT
FIGURE 83. PLAN OF THE WATER TANK’S FOOTINGS
Evaluation - Contributing The remains of the water tank are a distinctive character-defining feature of the Milford Mine Historic District that date to the district’s historic period and are fundamentally associated with the mine’s operations.
Treatment Recommendations The area around the water tank’s footings should be kept cleared of trees, saplings, and brush. All vegetation should be removed by cutting to grade and subsequent treatment with herbicide, as necessary, to prevent regrowth. In order to protect archaeological resources, stumps should not be pulled or ground and the use of heavy equipment should be avoided.
The depression within the area defined by the footings should not be filled as it indicates the location of the former frost box. Likewise, the associated utility trenches should not be filled.
PAGE 103 MILFORD MINE NATIONAL REGISTER HISTORIC DISTRICT CULTURAL LANDSCAPE REPORT
DRY HOUSE (BUILDING 5) The Dry House is located at the north end of the main street through the location (see Figure 113).
Historic Condition The Dry House, or Change House, is the building in which the miners changed into and out of their mining clothes and washed up. At the start of their shift miners placed their non-work attire in a locker and changed into their mining clothes. At the end of their shift, their dirty and wet mining clothes would be raised on hooks up into the rafters of the dry house where the warmer air and ventilation would dry them. After the Milford Mine disaster, the lockers of the victims were padlocked and placed under guard until the body was recovered and families could claim clothes and personal effects (Duluth Herald, 7 Feb 1924; Aulie 1994:63). In 1927, the Milford dry house was destroyed by fire, and subsequently rebuilt (Price, Waterhouse & Co. 1928; Middlebrook 1929:3).
No detailed descriptions or photographs of the Dry House were encountered during this study, although it does appear in two historical views from 1924 (see Figures 51 and 84). The most distinguishing feature of the Dry House in these images is its ventilation stacks which facilitated the circulation of air through the building. The 1938 inventory of the equipment remaining at the Milford Mine includes a single 500 gallon “heavy steel water tank (riveted)” housed within the Dry House. Also itemized were 21 individual steel lockers and four sections of lockers each comprised of 32 lockers (16 on a side) for a total of 149 lockers (Whitmarsh Minging Company 1938:1). The pre-fire footprint of the building is documented on the 1925 base map of the Milford property (A.O.A. 1965) (see Figure 111). It appears unchanged on the 1939 aerial photograph.
Existing Condition This north-south oriented building was constructed atop a concrete pad measuring 30 ft. (9.1 m) by 60 ft. (18.3 m) (Figure 85). Portions of the foundation of this building still bear
FIGURE 84. THE DRY HOUSE (CIRCLE), 1924
(MINNESOTA HISTORICAL SOCIETY)
PAGE 104 MILFORD MINE NATIONAL REGISTER HISTORIC DISTRICT CULTURAL LANDSCAPE REPORT
FIGURE 85. PLAN OF DRY HOUSE (BUILDI NG 5)
PAGE 105 MILFORD MINE NATIONAL REGISTER HISTORIC DISTRICT CULTURAL LANDSCAPE REPORT red paint. An earthen berm is located 8.5 ft. (2.6 m) north of the building’s north wall. This 3-ft. (0.9-m) wide berm parallels the north face of the building and then turns southward around the northeast corner of the building.
The salient features of the foundation of the Dry House are the ceramic pipe fittings in the poured concrete floor of the building (Figure 86). Three evenly-spaced drains along the south wall of the building, together with a raised concrete lip and surface scatters of starburst patterned privacy glass indicate that the showers were located at this end of the building. The interior surfaces in this area were painted yellow. Additional 8- in.-wide pipe fittings are located along the west and north walls. A series of evenly spaced 6-in.-wide pipe fittings in the west half of the FIGURE 86. DRAIN WITHIN FLOOR OF DRY HOUSE building likely mark the location of a trough-style wash basin. Open floor space in the east half of the building would have been occupied by ceiling hooks for drying the miners’ work clothes and lockers for their civilian clothes. Benches may have also been provided in this area (White 1915:14).
The condition of the Dry House remains is fair. Vegetation and the freeze-thaw cycle are taking a toll on the structural remains (Figure 87). The foundation, particularly at the north end of the structure, is FIGURE 87. OVERVIEW OF DRY HOUSE LOCATION, cracking and leaning. VIEW TO NORTH
Evaluation - Contributing The remains of the Dry House are a distinctive character-defining feature of the Milford Mine Historic District that date to the district’s historic period and are fundamentally associated with the mine’s operations. The Dry House is also directly associated with the historic event of the 1924 disaster. Although the building was destroyed by fire in 1927, given the substantial nature of its poured concrete foundation and the fact that the Dry House was rebuilt on the same footprint, it is likely that the pre-fire foundation was reused. Additional research and as yet undiscovered images may confirm this assumption.
PAGE 106 MILFORD MINE NATIONAL REGISTER HISTORIC DISTRICT CULTURAL LANDSCAPE REPORT
Treatment Recommendations The area around and within this foundation should be cleared vegetation. Any trees, saplings, or brush growing within or immediate to the foundations should be removed. All vegetation should be removed by cutting to grade (not pulled). Treat with herbicide, as necessary, to prevent regrowth. In order to protect archaeological resources, stumps should not be pulled or ground and the use of heavy equipment should be avoided.
A treatment plan for the preservation and stabilization of these structural remains should be developed and implemented as soon as possible.
GARAGE (BUILDING 6) The poured-concrete pad of the Garage (Building 6) is located west of the foundation of the Dry House (see Figure 113).
Historic Condition Historical photographs indicate that this gable-roofed building was a post-in-ground construction with corrugated metal siding and at least two, double-wide hinged doors along the south façade (Figure 88). On the 1925 base map of the Milford property this building is identified as a garage with the abbreviation “Gar” (A.O.A. 1965)(see Figure 111). This may be the garage that was destroyed by fire in 1924 (Price, Waterhouse & Co. 1926:4). Fred Harte, Jr., whose family lived in Crosby at the time of the disaster, recalled in 1994 (Aulie 1994:81-82): “My dad owned a car that he parked in the Milford garage with the cars of several other miners. Ten days after the cave-in, the garage
FIGURE 88. THE GARAGE (ARROW) IN AN UNDATED PHOTOGRAPH OF THE MILFORD MINE, VIEW TO NORTH
(CUYUNA IRON RANGE HERITAGE NETWORK)
PAGE 107 MILFORD MINE NATIONAL REGISTER HISTORIC DISTRICT CULTURAL LANDSCAPE REPORT burned and all the cars with it.” The proximity of Building 6 to the road through the site and the Dry House would support this conclusion. Building 6 also appears on the 1939 aerial photograph.
Existing Condition This east-west oriented building measures approximately 40 ft. (12.2 m) by 18 ft. (5.5 m). Other than a hollow for a pipe in the southwest corner of the building, the only distinguishing feature of this foundation is a gutter that runs along the north side of the building. This open gutter, which is molded into the concrete pad, starts 9 in. from the northeast corner of the building where a threaded 2.25” pipe emerges from the ground. The gutter is only 5 in. wide at the east end, but increases in width as it heads westward and FIGURE 89. BROKEN CONCRETE AT THE NORTHWEST is 8 in. wide at its western CORNER OF THE GARAGE FOUNDATION, terminus. VIEW TO SOUTHEAST
The condition of the remains of the garage is fair. The foundation of the garage is overgrown and a stand of birch is growing within the pad. Vegetation and the freeze- thaw cycle are taking a toll on the concrete particularly at the northwest corner (Figure 89).
Evaluation – Contributing The remains of the garage are a distinctive character-defining feature of the Milford Mine Historic District that date to the district’s historic period.
Treatment Recommendations The area around this foundation should be cleared of trees to avoid damage to them from root systems and tree falls. Any trees, saplings, or brush growing within or immediate to the foundations should be cleared. All vegetation should be removed by cutting to grade (not pulled). Treat with herbicide, as necessary, to prevent regrowth. In order to protect archaeological resources, stumps should not be pulled or ground and the use of heavy equipment should be avoided.
A treatment plan for the preservation and stabilization of these structural remains should be developed and implemented.
PAGE 108 MILFORD MINE NATIONAL REGISTER HISTORIC DISTRICT CULTURAL LANDSCAPE REPORT
UNKNOWN (BUILDING 7) This building is located to the southwest of the Dry House and is separated from the garage (Building 6) by the road to the power house (see Figure 113).
Historic Condition No detailed photographs of this feature have been located. The building at this location on the 1925 map of the Milford property is not a long from east-west as the structure that appears on the 1939 aerial photograph (A.O.A. 1965) (see Figure 111).
Existing Condition The walls of this former building are indicated by the presence of an earthen berm that is 28 ft. (13.7 m) from east to west and 16 ft. (4.9 m) from north to south, although the east- west building length as documented on the 1939 aerial appears to be approximately 60 ft. This building’s function is unknown.
Evaluation – Contributing The remains of Building 7 are a distinctive character-defining feature of the Milford Mine Historic District that date to the district’s historic period.
Treatment Recommendations Any trees, saplings, or brush growing within or immediate to Building 7 should be cleared. All vegetation should be removed by cutting to grade (not pulled). Treat with herbicide, as necessary, to prevent regrowth. In order to protect archaeological resources, stumps should not be pulled or ground and the use of heavy equipment should be avoided.
UNKNOWN (BUILDING 8) This feature is located to the east of the main street and at the southern terminus of the utility trenches (see Figure 113).
Historic Condition No photographs of this feature have been located, although it appears on the 1939 aerial photograph.
Existing Condition This feature is represented by an 8 ft. (2.4 m)-by-16 ft. (4.8 m), north-south oriented, poured-concrete foundation (Figure 90). A 13.5-by-18 in. inset at the northwest corner of the feature is associated with the end of the utility trench. A series of nine ½-in.- diameter threaded bolts are present around the outer edge of the upper surface of the foundation. Four bolts are evenly spaced along the east edge, three are evenly spaced along the west edge and one is located at the center of both the north and south edges. Within the east half of the feature is a 31.5 in. (80 cm)-wide-by-14 ft. 10 in. (4.55 m)-long opening that is 2.5 ft. (67 cm) deep to a concrete bottom. The function of this feature is unclear, although its connection to the utility trench system suggests that it was part of the mine site’s infrastructure.
PAGE 109 MILFORD MINE NATIONAL REGISTER HISTORIC DISTRICT CULTURAL LANDSCAPE REPORT
Evaluation – Contributing This feature (Building 8) is a character-defining feature of the Milford Mine Historic District that dates to the district’s historic period.
Treatment Recommendations The remains of this feature (Building 8) are to be preserved, protected from disturbance, and kept clear of trees and brush. All vegetation should be removed by cutting to grade (not pulling). Treat vegetation with herbicide, as necessary, to prevent regrowth. The associated utility trench should likewise be FIGURE 90. BUILDING 8, VIEW TO NORTHEAST preserved and protected.
SHOPS (BUILDING 9) This building is located to the north of the mine’s main shaft (see Figure 113).
Historic Condition Two structures labeled “Shops” are documented at this location on the 1925 map of the Milford property (A.O.A. 1965)(see Figure 111). No structures are apparent at this location on the 1939 aerial photographs. It appears that Building 1 is a later machine shop that replaced these earlier shop buildings.
Existing Condition The location of Building 9 is marked by a shallow, 8 ft. (2.4 m)-by-16 ft. (4.8 m), east- west oriented depression located to the north of the main mine shaft. Sheet metal, coal and iron ore fragments are present on the surface in the vicinity of this feature. No structural remains are evident. The area is overgrown with vegetation.
Evaluation – Contributing This feature (Building 9) is a character-defining feature of the Milford Mine Historic District that dates to the district’s historic period.
Treatment Recommendations The area surrounding the Building 9 should be preserved, protected from disturbance, and kept clear of trees and brush. All vegetation should be removed by cutting to grade (not pulled). Treat with herbicide, as necessary, to prevent regrowth. The associated utility trench should likewise be preserved and protected.
PAGE 110 MILFORD MINE NATIONAL REGISTER HISTORIC DISTRICT CULTURAL LANDSCAPE REPORT
OFFICE The office was located to the southeast of the Dry House (Building 5) (see Figure 113)
Historic Condition A structure labeled “Office” is documented on the 1925 map of the Milford property (A.O.A. 1965)(see Figure 111). This building also appears on the 1939 aerial photographs.
Existing Condition During the archaeological investigations, no features related to the former office building were documented.
Evaluation - Indeterminate Given that no evidence for the office building has as yet been identified, it cannot be evaluated at this time. However, should any features related to this building and having historical integrity be identified in the future, they should be considered contributing to the district as a character-defining feature of the Milford Mine Historic District that dates to the district’s historic period.
Treatment Recommendations No treatment recommendations are provided for the office building at this time. However, due to the high potential for the area where this structure once stood to contain archaeological features, the general area should be protected from disturbance. If ground-disturbing activity is planned in this vicinity, the area should be tested for archaeological materials and features.
PUMP HOUSE This structure was located on the southeast shore of Island Lake.
Historic Condition A structure labeled “P.H.” is documented on the 1925 map of the Milford property along the southeast shore of Island Lake (A.O.A. 1965)(see Figure 111). Given its location, it is assumed that it is the site of a pump house. It is not visible on the 1939 aerial photographs.
Existing Condition The location of this structure was not visited during the archaeological investigations. There is no evidence of structural remains at this location on modern aerials.
Evaluation - Indeterminate Given that no evidence for this building has as yet been identified, it cannot be evaluated at this time. However, should any features related to this building and having historical integrity be identified in the future, they should be considered contributing to the district as a character-defining feature of the Milford Mine Historic District that dates to the district’s historic period.
PAGE 111 MILFORD MINE NATIONAL REGISTER HISTORIC DISTRICT CULTURAL LANDSCAPE REPORT
Treatment Recommendations No treatment recommendations are provided for this building; however, if ground disturbing activity is planned in the vicinity of the Pump House, the area should be tested for archaeological materials and features.
BUILDING REMAINS – RESIDENTIAL COMPLEX Many of the miners who worked in the Milford Mine commuted from neighboring communities; however, some families resided at the mine site in small homes, and a boarding house was provided for single miners. At the south end of the residential district, a series of depressions and cellar holes indicate the former locations of more substantial residences.
MINE WORKER HOUSING The residential portion of the mine, or the “location” was located south of the industrial complex.
Historic Condition Small homes for the families of some of the mine workers lined both sides of the main street to the south of the Dry House. These structures were constructed on grade and lacked cellars. A photograph taken at the time of the 1924 disaster documents at least nine such homes and an article written at the time states that “about twelve of the miners lived with their families in small huts at the mine location” (The Deerwood Enterprise, 8 Feb 1924) (Figures 91-92). The 1925 base map indicates structures lining the main
FIGURE 91. MINE WORKER HOUSING AT THE MILFORD LOCATION, VIEW TO NORTH, 1924
(MINNESOTA HISTORICAL SOCIETY)
PAGE 112 MILFORD MINE NATIONAL REGISTER HISTORIC DISTRICT CULTURAL LANDSCAPE REPORT
FIGURE 92. MINE WORKER HOUSING AT THE MILFORD LOCATION, VIEW TO NORTH, 1924
(MINNESOTA HISTORICAL SOCIETY) street (see Figure 111). Variation in the footprint of the buildings suggests that some may have been double-houses for more than one family. In the 1926 annual report, mention is made of houses being removed, but it is unclear which houses are referenced (Price, Waterhouse & Co. 1927:4). These structures are not present on the 1939 aerial photographs.
Existing Condition The level area to either side of the road where these structures once stood is evident. During the reconnaissance survey, no indications of the presence of these miner’s homes were observed on the surface. The area has not undergone systematic subsurface testing, but identified nearby archaeological features (e.g., Depressions C, M and N) are likely associated with the occupation of these structures.
Evaluation - Contributing The undisturbed location of the mine worker’s housing and presumed related archaeological deposits are considered contributing to the district as a character-defining feature of the Milford Mine Historic District that dates to the district’s historic period.
Treatment Recommendations Due to the high potential that archaeological deposits and features exist where these structures once stood, the general area should be protected from disturbance. Care should be taken to align the proposed trail down the middle of the former road so as not to adversely impact these potentially significant resources.
PAGE 113 MILFORD MINE NATIONAL REGISTER HISTORIC DISTRICT CULTURAL LANDSCAPE REPORT
RESIDENCE - PRESUMED (BUILDING 10)
Historic Condition No photographs of this building have been located, although it appears on 1925 base map of the Milford property, and the 1939 aerial photograph (see Figure 111).
Existing Condition The location of this former building is indicated by a water-filled, rectilinear cellar hole that measures approximately 13 ft. (4 m) from north to south and 11 ft. (3.4 m) from east to west (see Figure 93 and 113). About 8 ft. (2.5 m) to the north of the northern edge of the cellar hole is an FIGURE 93. CELLAR HOLE OF BUILDING 10, earthen berm that likely indicates VIEW TO SOUTH the location of the north wall of the building. The discernible length of this berm is 22 ft. (6.7 m).
A large circular patch of iris grows 20 ft. (6 m) to the east of the cellar hole (Figure 94). Based on the location of this building, its size, and the associated iris patch, this building is assumed to be a residence.
Evaluation – Contributing The cellar hole of Building 10 is a character-defining feature of the Milford Mine Historic District that dates to the district’s historic FIGURE 94. IRISH PATCH NEAR BUILDING 10, period. VIEW TO EAST
Treatment Recommendations The remains of Building 10 are to be preserved, protected from disturbance, and kept clear of trees and brush. Given the depth of this cellar hole and its inundated nature, the County may consider fencing it for safety reasons.
PAGE 114 MILFORD MINE NATIONAL REGISTER HISTORIC DISTRICT CULTURAL LANDSCAPE REPORT
RESIDENCE – PRESUMED (BUILDING 11)
Historic Condition No photographs of this building have been located, although it appears on and the 1939 aerial photograph. It is not recorded on the 1925 base map of the Milford property.
Existing Condition This building is represented by a shallow, square depression measuring 11.5 ft. (3.5 m) from east to west and 10 ft. (3 m) from north to south (see Figure 113). The function of this former building is unclear.
Evaluation – Contributing The remains of Building 11 are a character-defining feature of the Milford Mine Historic District that date to the district’s historic period.
Treatment Recommendations The remains of Building 11 are to be preserved, protected from disturbance, and kept clear of trees and brush. All vegetation should be removed by cutting to grade (not pulling). Treat vegetation with herbicide, as necessary, to prevent regrowth.
RESIDENCE - PRESUMED (BUILDING 12)
Historic Condition No photographs of this building have been located, although it appears on and the 1939 aerial photograph. It is not recorded on the 1925 base map of the Milford property.
Existing Condition This former building is indicated by a shallow, square depression measuring 11 ft. (3.4 m) from east to west and 10.5 ft. (3.2 m) from north to south (see Figure 113). The function of this former building is unclear, but its location and the nature of the feature indicates that it was likely a residence.
Evaluation – Contributing The remains of Building 12 are a character-defining feature of the Milford Mine Historic District that date to the district’s historic period.
Treatment Recommendations The remains of Building 12 are to be preserved, protected from disturbance, and kept clear of trees and brush. All vegetation should be removed by cutting to grade (not pulling). Treat vegetation with herbicide, as necessary, to prevent regrowth.
PAGE 115 MILFORD MINE NATIONAL REGISTER HISTORIC DISTRICT CULTURAL LANDSCAPE REPORT
RESIDENCE - PRESUMED (BUILDING 13)
Historic Condition No photographs of this building have been located, although it appears on 1925 base map of the Milford property, and the 1939 aerial photograph (see Figure 111).
Existing Condition A square cellar hole measuring 13 ft. (4 m) from north to south and 12 ft. (3.7 m) from east to west marks the location of this former building (see Figure 95 and 113). The cellar hole is approximately 4 ft. deep. The function of this former building is unclear, but its location, together with the nature of the feature, indicates that it was likely a residence.
Evaluation – Contributing The remains of Building 13 are a character-defining feature of the Milford Mine Historic District that FIGURE 95. CELLAR HOLE OF BUILDING 13, VIEW date to the district’s historic period. TO SOUTH
Treatment Recommendations The remains of Building 13 are to be preserved, protected from disturbance, and kept clear of trees and brush. All vegetation should be removed by cutting to grade (not pulling). Treat vegetation with herbicide, as necessary, to prevent regrowth.
BOARDING HOUSE FOR SINGLE MEN (BUILDING 14) The boarding house for single men is separated by a wetland from the main residential complex (see Figure 113).
Historic Condition At the time of the 1924 disaster, an article in the The Deerwood Enterprise noted that “a large rooming house accommodated the single men” (The Deerwood Enterprise, 8 Feb 1924). According to the 1925 map of the Milford property, the boarding house was located to the west of the central mine complex and isolated from it by a wetland (see Figure 111). According to the 1920 census, the boarding house was occupied by the six members of the Ramey family, a female servant that kept the boarding house, and nine male boarders that worked in the mine. No photographs of this building have been located, although it appears on the 1939 aerial photograph.
PAGE 116 MILFORD MINE NATIONAL REGISTER HISTORIC DISTRICT CULTURAL LANDSCAPE REPORT
Existing Condition The presence of the exterior walls of this former north-south oriented building are indicated by an earthen berm measuring 22 ft. (6.7 m) wide by 68 ft. (20.7 m) long. A cellar hole is present within the interior of the north end of this building (Figure 96). Other features include a 3.5-in.-diameter pipe projecting 38 in. from the ground along the north wall of the building’s interior, and a guy wire tie down projecting 13 in. from the ground and located to the east of the foundation. Two single bedspring assemblies were observed on the surface near this FIGURE 96. BOARDING HOUSE (BUILDING 14) building. CELLAR HOLE, VIEW TO SOUTHWEST Evaluation – Contributing The remains of the boarding house (Building 14) are a character-defining feature of the Milford Mine Historic District that date to the district’s historic period.
Treatment Recommendations The remains of the boarding house (Building 14) are to be preserved, protected from disturbance, and kept clear of trees and brush. All vegetation should be removed by cutting to grade (not pulling). Treat vegetation with herbicide, as necessary, to prevent regrowth.
UNKNOWN (BUILDING 15)
Historic Condition No photographs of this building have been located. It is not documented on the 1925 base map of the Milford property, nor can it be discerned on the 1939 aerial photograph.
Existing Condition A rectangular cellar hole measuring 10 ft. (3 m) from north to south and 16 ft. (4.9 m) from east to west marks the location of this former building (see Figure 113). A strip of corrugated metal is located in the bottom of the cellar hole. The function of this former building is unclear.
Evaluation – Contributing The remains of Building 15 are a character-defining feature of the Milford Mine Historic District that date to the district’s historic period.
PAGE 117 MILFORD MINE NATIONAL REGISTER HISTORIC DISTRICT CULTURAL LANDSCAPE REPORT
Treatment Recommendations The remains of Building 15 are to be preserved, protected from disturbance, and kept clear of trees and brush. All vegetation should be removed by cutting to grade (not pulling). Treat vegetation with herbicide, as necessary, to prevent regrowth.
STORAGE FACILITY A probable storage facility is located to the northwest of the boarding house for single men and proximate to the mine’s spur track (see Figure 113).
Historic Condition This feature is not documented on photographs or maps of the Milford property. A clearing is present on the 1939 aerial photograph where this feature is located.
Existing Condition This complex consists of a central, level clearing off of which two rectangular cuts have been excavated into the surrounding embankment. Tin pails and barrels are present on the surface in the vicinity of these features. The smaller of the two cuts is excavated into the slope to the south and measures approximately 4 m (13.5 ft.) by 4 m (13.5 ft.). The rear (south) elevation of the cut is approximately 1.3 m (4.25 ft.) high. The larger excavation is cut into the slope to the west and measures approximately 7 m (23 ft.) long from east to west and 5 m (16.5 ft.) wide from north to south (Figure 97). The rear (west) elevation of the cut is approximately 10 ft. (3.5 m) high. An oil can was noted on the surface within this feature. A water-filled, circular depression measuring 3.5 m (11.5 ft.) across is present between these two features. Fragments of coal are present on the surface around this depression. The function of this collection of features is unclear, but their general arrangement suggests a collection of storage cellars, while the excavation of features into embankments is consistent with cold storage. FIGURE 97. NORTH CUT, STORAGE FACILITY, VIEW TO EAST Evaluation – Contributing The apparent storage facility is a character-defining feature of the Milford Mine Historic District that date to the district’s historic period.
Treatment Recommendations The storage facility should be protected and preserved and monitored for erosion. All vegetation should be removed by cutting to grade (not pulling). Treat vegetation with herbicide, as necessary, to prevent regrowth.
PAGE 118 MILFORD MINE NATIONAL REGISTER HISTORIC DISTRICT CULTURAL LANDSCAPE REPORT
ORE-HANDLING AND WASTE ROCK RELATED FEATURES Both ore and waste rock is raised to the surface in the ore skip. Ore is either loaded directly into rail cars or stockpiled on the grounds.
OVERHEAD TRESTLES Ore and waste rock were shuttled to their appropriate destinations via overhead trestles. One trestle connected the headframe with the waste rock pile to the northwest of the mine’s main shaft while another led from the headframe to the mine’s stockpile of ore located its southeast.
Historic Condition According to a 1931 report the overhead trestle to the ore bank was “built some (8) years ago” indicating a c.1923 construction date (Railroad and Warehouse Commission 1932:35). Both trestles appear in images taken at the time of the 1924 disaster (Figure 98).
Existing Condition During the archaeological investigations, no features related to the overhead trestles were documented. Likely remnants of the trestles would be the footings of the bents (supports).
Evaluation - Indeterminate Given that no evidence for the trestles has as yet been identified, they cannot be evaluated at this time.
Treatment Recommendations No treatment recommendations are provided for the overhead trestles.
FIGURE 98. THE OVERHEAD TRESTLES AND WASTE ROCK PILE (ARROW), VIEW TO SOUTHWEST
(MINNESOTA HISTORICAL SOCIETY)
PAGE 119 MILFORD MINE NATIONAL REGISTER HISTORIC DISTRICT CULTURAL LANDSCAPE REPORT
WASTE ROCK PILE A single pile of waste rock is located to the northwest of the mine’s main shaft (see Figure 113).
Historic Condition Waste rock would have been generated from the time of the mine’s initial development in 1918. The pile of waste rock is evident in images taken at the time of the 1924 disaster and recorded on the 1925 property map (see Figures 98 and 111).
Existing Condition The rock pile is currently overgrown, but still discernible as a pile of waste rock. Slumping and erosion are evident around its perimeter.
Evaluation – Contributing The waste rock pile is a character-defining feature of the Milford Mine Historic District that dates to the district’s historic period
Treatment Recommendations Unlike many of the features of the Milford Mine Historic District to which vegetation growth is detrimental, the foliage present on the waste rock pile is likely contributing to its stability. No clearing or alteration to the waste rock pile is recommended. In order to maintain its current integrity, climbing of the rock pile should be discouraged.
STOCKPILE GROUNDS
While the Milford Mine operated during winter months, shipping of ore ceased because barge traffic on Lake Superior halted. Ore mined during the winter was stockpiled on the property until spring when it was loaded by steam shovel onto waiting ore cars.
Historic Condition The Milford Mine’s stockpile grounds were located to the east of the mine’s main shaft and to the immediate south of the grade of the mine’s spur track. The stockpile grounds are clearly labeled on a 1925 map of the property (A.O.A. 1965) (Figure 99). As indicated on this map, the stockpile grounds were constructed by cutting and grading the natural topography to create a level expanse. This process included filling adjoining swampy areas. The cleared stockpile grounds are evident on the 1939 aerial of the mine site.
A report from 1931 states that “the loading of ore from the bank by a steam shovel is now in operation” and the 1938 inventory of the mine’s property included a “Bucyrus Erie steam shovel” (Railroad and Warehouse Commission 1932:36; Whitmarsh Mining Company 1938:3). The probable location of the platform for the steam shovel is visible on the 1939 aerial photograph proximate to the mine’s spur grade (see Figures 112- 113).
PAGE 120 MILFORD MINE NATIONAL REGISTER HISTORIC DISTRICT CULTURAL LANDSCAPE REPORT
FIGURE 99. STOCKPILE GROUNDS (ARROW) ON DETAIL FROM PROPERTY MAP, 1925
Existing Condition The stockpile grounds are still discernable as a distinct area of level ground located to the south of the grade of the mine’s spur track, however, trees have encroached on this once open area.
Evaluation - Contributing The constructed landscape of the stockpile grounds are a distinctive character-defining feature of the Milford Mine Historic District that dates to the district’s historic period and is fundamentally associated with the mine’s operations. The stockpile ground reflects the seasonal cycle of ore mining in Minnesota.
Treatment Recommendations Trees and brush should be cleared from this area to restore the setting and feeling of the stockpile grounds.
PAGE 121 MILFORD MINE NATIONAL REGISTER HISTORIC DISTRICT CULTURAL LANDSCAPE REPORT
ORE BANK (STOCK PILE) The Ore Bank, or Stock Pile, is a massive pile of mined ore that is ready for shipment from the property. Ore was transported to the stockpile from the headframe via an overhead trestle.
Historic Condition The size of the Milford Mine’s ore bank varied over time. The entirety of the mine’s initial stockpile was sold and shipped in 1920. In subsequent years, the stockpile fluctuated in size given rates of production and shipment (Figure 100). In 1933, a year after the mine’s closure, the last remaining ore in the stockpile was removed from the site.
Existing Condition A stockpile is no longer present on the property.
Evaluation - Removed When present, the ore bank was is character-defining feature of the Milford Mine Historic District, but with the removal of the last stockpile from the property in 1933, the ore bank has lost its historical integrity. However, it is not known if any subsurface evidence for the location (footprint) of the stockpile remains. Should evidence for the ore bank be uncovered in the future and it retains sufficient integrity to provide significant information about this aspect of the mine’s operations, it should be considered a contributing element to the Milford Mine Historic District.
Treatment Recommendations No treatment recommendations are provided for the stock pile.
FIGURE 100. THE EDGE OF THE STOCKPILE (ARROW) IS VISIBLE AT RIGHT, VIEW TO NORTH, 1924
(MINNESOTA HISTORICAL SOCIETY)
PAGE 122 MILFORD MINE NATIONAL REGISTER HISTORIC DISTRICT CULTURAL LANDSCAPE REPORT
TIMBER YARD
Historic Condition The area north of the east end of the mine’s spur track is labeled “Timber Yard” on the 1925 map of the Milford Mine property (A.O.A. 1965) (Figure 101). On a 1924 map this stretch of track is labeled “Timber Track” (Pearl 1924). The timber yard is the location where timbers for shoring the mine’s interior (Figure 102) were stored prior to being loaded on cars on the timber track to be taken into the mine. Stacks of prepared timbers are evident around the headframe in historical images (Figure 103).
Existing Condition The location and extent of the timber yard is presently not discernible due to vegetation and the caving of the ground in the area.
Evaluation – Indeterminate Given that no evidence for the timber yard can be discerned, it cannot be evaluated at this time.
Treatment Recommendations No treatment recommendations are provided for the timber yard.
FIGURE 101. TIMBER YARD (ARROW) ON DETAIL FROM PROPERTY MAP, 1925
PAGE 123 MILFORD MINE NATIONAL REGISTER HISTORIC DISTRICT CULTURAL LANDSCAPE REPORT
FIGURE 102. EXAMPLE OF TIMBERWORK ALONG THE MAIN DRIFT OF AN UNDERGROUND MINE
(NORTHEAST MINNESOTA HISTORICAL CENTER COLLECTIONS, U OF MN – DULUTH)
FIGURE 103. PILES OF TIMBERS ARE VISIBLE IN THIS 1924 PHOTO OF THE MILFORD MINE’S HEADFRAME
(MINNESOTA HISTORICAL SOCIETY)
PAGE 124 MILFORD MINE NATIONAL REGISTER HISTORIC DISTRICT CULTURAL LANDSCAPE REPORT
CAVED GROUND The caving method of mining ore results in caved ground on the surface above the mine. Most of the caved ground resulting from the removal of ore from Milford Mine is now encompassed by the northwest arm of Milford Lake, but a portion of caved ground is visible on the surface to the mine’s spur track (see Figure 113). This slumped ground is encountered between the main shaft and the secondary shaft.
Historic Condition The extent of the caved ground in 1925 is documented on the property map of that year (A.O.A. 1965) (Figure 101).
Existing Condition The sunken nature of the ground and its southern and western edges can be readily detected between the main shaft and Timber Shaft No. 1. The visible (not inundated) portion of the caved ground is approximately 145 ft. (44 m) from east to west.
Evaluation - Contributing Caved ground is a character-defining feature of the Milford Mine Historic District that dates to the district’s historic period
Treatment Recommendations The area of the caved ground should be kept clear of trees so that its extent can be visualized. The process of underground mining and the resulting caved ground at the surface should be interpreted at this location.
FIGURE 104. DOTTED OUTLINE OF CAVED GROUND (ARROW) ON DETAIL FROM PROPERTY MAP, 1925
PAGE 125 MILFORD MINE NATIONAL REGISTER HISTORIC DISTRICT CULTURAL LANDSCAPE REPORT
WATER-CONTROL STRUCTURES One of the principal difficulties of mining on the Cuyuna Range was the presence of numerous lakes, swamps, bogs, and the associated high water table.
MUD RUN, LAUNDER, AND DIKES
Historic Condition The 1925 map of the Milford Mine property documents a “mud run,” “launder,” and a series of dikes to the north and west of the mine’s main shaft (A.O.A. 1965) (Figure 105). The mud run is a channel around the north side of the rock pile, which connects to the launder that runs north of the mine’s spur track. The launder connects to a holding pond created to the west of the mine through the use of natural landforms and dikes. These features carried the water being pumped out of the workings away from the mine.
Existing Condition The area of these features is presently inundated, although the channel of the mud run around the north side of the rock pile and the route of the launder along the north side of the mine’s spur grade can be discerned on modern aerial photographs.
Evaluation – Contributing Although largely inundated, aspects of these elements can still be observed and are considered contributing to the Milford Mine Historic District.
Treatment Recommendations The areas of the mud run, launder, and dikes should be protected and preserved.
FIGURE 105. MUD RUN, LAUNDER, AND DIKES ON DETAIL FROM PROPERTY MAP, 1925
PAGE 126 MILFORD MINE NATIONAL REGISTER HISTORIC DISTRICT CULTURAL LANDSCAPE REPORT
MILFORD LAKE DAM
Historic Condition After the 1924 disaster “a small dam” was built “between the swamp and the mine” to hold back the lake and the swamp over the mine was kept drained by “a double stage Cameron pump and two electric pumps” (Aulie 1994:154). The location of the dam is recorded on the 1925 property map of the Milford Mine (A.O.A. 1965) (see Figure 111). It was constructed across a narrow neck to the east-southeast of the mine.
Existing Condition The location of the dam is within Milford Lake.
Evaluation – Indeterminate Due to its inundated nature, the dam cannot be evaluated.
Treatment Recommendations No treatment recommendations are provided for the dam.
DRAIN TO THE MISSISSIPPI RIVER
Historic Condition The route of an “old drain pipe” is labeled on the 1925 map of the Milford Mine property (A.O.A. 1965) (see Figure 111). This drainage connected Foley Pond to the Mississippi River prior to the 1924 disaster.
Existing Condition Due to the present water level within Milford Lake no portion of the ditch can be discerned within the boundary of the historic district. To the north and east of the district’s boundary, the route of the ditch is apparent on the ground and can be traced on modern aerial photographs. It can be most readily viewed to the north of County Road 30 where it empties into the Mississippi River (Figure 106).
Evaluation FIGURE 106. FORMER DRAINAGE DITCH TO MISSISSIPPI ALONG CR 30, VIEW TO NORTH The remaining portion of the drainage ditch is located outside the historic district’s boundary, however, were it within the boundary it would be considered contributing to the Milford Mine Historic District.
Treatment Recommendations No treatment recommendations are provided for the drainage ditch to the Mississippi River. Consideration should be given to interpreting the drain where it crosses Milford Lake Drive to the east of the park entrance.
PAGE 127 MILFORD MINE NATIONAL REGISTER HISTORIC DISTRICT CULTURAL LANDSCAPE REPORT
BERM / DAM (2009) During the 2009 Phase II archaeological investigation fieldwork, a berm or dam was identified along the north edge of the caved ground between the Main Shaft and Timber Shaft No. 1. This feature was interpreted as the “small dam” referenced in 1925, but the subsequent discovery of the 1925 property map has identified the location of that dam (A.O.A. 1965; Aulie 1994:154). During the 2014 field investigations, a shovel test placed within this ridge revealed a natural soil profile. Given these findings, the ridge along the south shore of the west arm of Milford Lake is likely a natural feature.
SMALL-SCALE FEATURES
“CAVED GROUND” SIGN A signpost mid-way between the Main Shaft and Timber Shaft No. 1 warns: “DANGER CAVED GROUND KEEP OUT” (see Figures 107 and 113).
Historic Condition This feature is not documented in any known photographs or on maps of the Milford property. The construction of the sign suggest that it dates to the mine’s period of operation.
Existing Condition The sign’s post is leaning at a nearly 45 degree angle to the ground (Figure 108). The sign (28 in. [71 cm] by 20.5 in. [52 cm]) is rusted to the point of being nearly illegible and has been pierced with bullet holes. The corners of the sign are bent. The post (79 in. [ 2 m]) is painted yellow. FIGURE 107. CAVED GROUND SIGN, The condition is generally poor. VIEW TO NORTH, 2009
Evaluation – Contributing This feature is a character-defining feature of the Milford Mine Historic District that dates to the district’s historic period.
Treatment Recommendations Preserve the sign in place and add interpretation with an explanation of “caved ground.” Consult with SHPO regarding restoration options.
FIGURE 108. CAVED GROUND SIGN, VIEW TO WEST, 2014
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GUY WIRE ANCHOR A concrete pier with two guy wire anchors is located along the south edge of the mine’s spur track and north of the remains of the Power House (Building 3) (see Figure 113).
Historic Condition This feature is not documented in any known photographs or on maps of the Milford property. The location of this feature suggests that it was one of the anchors for the many guy wires that stabilized the stacks of the Power House (Figure 109).
Existing Condition This feature consists of a 33 in. (84 cm) –by- 24 in. (61 cm), north-south oriented concrete block. Approximately 17 in. (43 cm) of this block’s height is exposed. Inset into the block at the time that it was poured are two guy wire anchors. The east anchor has been cut off, but the west anchor is intact. The complete anchor is 1 ft. long and has a 4 in. diameter head.
Evaluation – Contributing This feature is a character-defining feature of the Milford Mine Historic District that dates to FIGURE 109. GUY WIRE ANCHOR, the district’s historic period. VIEW TO WEST Treatment Recommendations The remains of this feature should be preserved, protected from disturbance, and kept clear of trees and brush. All vegetation should be removed by cutting to grade (not pulling). Treat vegetation with herbicide, as necessary, to prevent regrowth.
OTHER ARCHAEOLOGICAL FEATURES
DEPRESSIONS During the reconnaissance survey performed by Two Pines in 2009, 17 surface depressions were documented in addition to the structural ruins and features previously described (Table 2; see Figure 113). Two additional depressions were documented in 2014. These depressions indicate the locations of in-filled, subsurface features.
These features contribute to the Milford Mine Historic District and should be protected and preserved in place. If disturbance cannot be avoided, mitigation measures must be undertaken including data recovery, documentation and curation, as necessary.
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TABLE 2. DEPRESSIONS INDICATING SUBSURFACE FEATURES
ID Dimensions Depth Notes (cmbs) A 4 x 4 ft. (1.22 x 1.22 m), 15 cm 50 B 8.8 x 7.5 ft. (2.7 x 2.3 m), 66 cm 50 C 7.25 x 4.25 ft. (2.2 x 1.3 m), 26 cm 70 D 7.54 x 4.92 ft. (2.3 x 1.5 m), 16 cm 15 Not relocated in 2014 E 4 x 5 ft. (1.1 x 1.5 m), 40 cm 75 F 6 x 4 ft. (1.83 x 1.22 m), 46 cm 85 G 8 x 7.46 ft. (2.44 x 2.3 m), 90 cm 85 H 5.92 x 6.58 ft. (1.8 x 2 m), 15 cm 15 I 6.83 x 6.83 ft. (2.1 x 2.1 m), 31 cm 20+ J 4.5 x 5.25 ft. (1.37 x 1.6 m), 13 cm 55 K 7.88 x 7.88 ft. (2.4 x 2.4 m), 25 cm 65 L 2.33 x 1.83 ft. (0.7 x 0.54 m), 50 cm 30 M 2.63 x 4.58 ft. (0.8 x 1.4 m), 23 cm 40 N 4.25 x 4.58 ft. (1.3 x 1.4 m), 14 cm 55 O 6.92 x 8.83 ft. (2.1 x 2.7 m), 40 cm -- P 18 x 20 ft. (5.49 x 6.1 m), 150 cm -- Drill Hole No. 551 Q 6.23 x 4.59 ft. (1.9 x 1.4 m), 61 cm 35 R 4 x 4 ft. (1.2 x 1.2 m), 31 cm 54 S 5 x 5 ft. (1.5 x 1.5 m), 60 cm --
SURFACE DEBRIS AND TRASH PILES Within the Milford Mine Historic District, evidence of debris and trash piles dating to the period of significance is limited. Infrequent artifacts are present across the site (Figure 110). These artifacts are con- tributing elements to the historic district that have the potential to provide information on activities that took place at the Milford Mine. They should be protected and preserved in place. However, prior to the opening of the park, any large-scale artifacts present on the surface that visitors may be tempted to remove for souvenirs should be collected by the County and saved for future interpretation or curation with an approved public institution. FIGURE 110. AN OIL CAN DOCUMENTED ON THE SURFACE WITHIN THE MILFORD MINE HISTORIC DISTRICT, 2009
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POTENTIAL ARCHAEOLOGICAL RESOURCES Given the dense vegetation present at the Milford Mine site and a lack of detailed maps dating the site’s period of occupation, there is a very high potential for as yet undocumented archaeological resources to be present within the historic district. For example, historical images and aerial photographs indicate the presence of additional buildings that do not have remains presently visible on the surface. Therefore, subsurface impacts should be avoided within the boundary of site 21CW282, which encompasses the entirety of the historic core (see Figure 3). If ground-disturbing activities (including post holes) are necessary in these areas, archaeological investigations must take place prior to the undertaking. If archaeological resources are identified, and disturbance cannot be avoided, mitigation measures must be undertaken including data recovery, documentation and curation, as necessary.
NON-CONTRIBUTING ARCHAEOLOGICAL SITES Two additional archaeological sites (21CW0280 and 21CW0281) have been previously identified within the boundaries of the Milford Mine Historic District (Hohman-Caine and Goltz 2008). Site 21CW0280 was identified as a precontact site consisting of a fire- cracked rock scatter and two shallow pit features. Site 21CW0281 contained a single spoon, other metal, and a quartz flake. As neither of these sites are directly associated with the operations of the Milford Mine or it period of significance, they are considered non-contributing resources to the district.
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TABLE 3. SUMMARY TABLE OF LANDSCAPE FEATURE EVALUATIONS
MILFORD MINE HISTORIC DISTRICT
Feature Evaluation Notes Natural Systems and Features Geology Contributing Soils Non-contributing Foley Pond/Milford Lake Contributing Topography Contributing Spatial Organization Contributing Vegetation Within its established boundaries Native Vegetation Contributing during the period of significance Ornamental Plants Contributing Irises are an example Invasive Species Non-contributing Buckthorn is an example Land Use Industrial Contributing Residential Contributing Tourism/Recreation Non-contributing Public Utilities Non-contributing Natural Resources Contributing Interpretation Non-contributing Views and Vistas Non-contributing Circulation Road to Wolford Contributing Road to Manganese Contributing Roads within the Historic Core Contributing Soo Line Railroad Grade Contributing Soo Line Trestle Contributing Mine Spur Contributing Post-Disaster Spur Contributing Borrow Pits Contributing Mine Shafts and Exploratory Drill Holes Main Shaft and Headframe (remains) Contributing Sunk 1918 Timber Shaft No.1 Contributing Sunk 1924/25 Timber Shaft No. 2 Contributing Sunk 1926/27
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MILFORD MINE HISTORIC DISTRICT
Feature Evaluation Notes Building Remains- Industrial Complex Machine Shop / Blacksmith Shop (Building 1) Contributing Engine (Hoist) House (Building 2) Contributing Power House (Building 3) Contributing Water Tank (Building 4) Contributing Dry House (Building 5) Contributing Garage (Building 6) Contributing Unknown (Building 7) Contributing Unknown (Building 8) Contributing Shops (Building 9) Contributing Office Undetermined Related features not yet identified Pump House Undetermined Related features not yet identified Building Remains- Residential Complex Mine Worker Housing Contributing Residence - Presumed (Building 10) Contributing Residence - Presumed (Building 11) Contributing Residence - Presumed (Building 12) Contributing Residence - Presumed (Building 13) Contributing Boarding House for Single Men (Building 14) Contributing Unknown (Building 15) Contributing Storage Facility Contributing Ore-Handling and Waste Rock Related Features Overhead Trestles Undetermined Contributing if present Waste Rock Pile Contributing Stockpile Grounds Contributing Ore Bank (Stock Pile) Removed Timber Yard Contributing Caved Ground Contributing Water-Control Structures Launder, Mud Run, and Dikes Contributing Milford Lake Dam Undetermined Drain to the Mississippi River -- Outside boundary of historic district Berm/Dam (2009) -- Non-cultural
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MILFORD MINE HISTORIC DISTRICT
Feature Evaluation Notes Small-Scale Features “Caved Ground” Sign Contributing Guy Wire Anchor Contributing Archaeological Resources 21CW282 Contributing Depressions, foundations, trenches Feature Depressions Contributing Surface Debris and Trash Piles Contributing Dating to the period of significance 21CW280 Non-contributing Precontact (FCR and two pit features) 21CW281 Non-contributing Spoon, flake, misc. metal Potential Archaeological Resources Milford Mine Related Features -- High archaeological potential Native American Heritage Sites -- Low archaeological potential Park Structures and Features Picnic Shelter Non-contributing Built 2012 Park Entrance Sign Non-contributing Informational Kiosk and Signage Non-contributing Benches and Picnic Tables Non-contributing Boat Launch Non-contributing Bicycle Rack Non-contributing Landscape Boulders Non-contributing
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FIGURE 111. 1925 MAP OF THE MILFORD MINE PROPERTY – UPDATED 1965 AND 1982 (A.O.A. 1965)
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FIGURE 112. LARGE-SCALE FEATURES OF THE MILFORD MINE HISTORIC DISTRICT
(1939 AERIAL PHOTOGRAPH)
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FIGURE 113. THE HISTORIC CORE OF THE MILFORD MINE HISTORIC DISTRICT
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CHAPTER 6 . PRESERVATION APPROACH
This Cultural Landscape Report has been prepared to ensure that Crow Wing County’s management of the Milford Mine Memorial Park will continue to preserve and protect the irreplaceable features and characteristics that make the site of the Milford Mine one of Minnesota’s most significant historical places.
This chapter outlines the State’s legal framework for managing the Milford Mine Historic District, and a preservation approach to serve as a basis for future planning.
AGENCY CONSULTATION In undertaking any future work within the boundary of the Milford Mine Historic District or permitting (either formally or informally) activities by philanthropic and service organizations, consultation with the appropriate agencies, as outlined below, is not only mandated, but necessary to ensuring the continued preservation of this significant historical resource.
Per the Minnesota Historic Sites Act (M.S. 138.71-138.75), the County must provide the State Historic Preservation Office with the opportunity to review and comment on development plans for any new resources (e.g., shelters, trails, benches, and signage) or changes to existing features (e.g., foundations, fences, vegetation) within the Milford Mine Historic District in order to ensure that the undertaking is appropriate and compatible with the historic character of the district.
The state, state departments, agencies, and political subdivisions, including the Board of Regents of the University of Minnesota, have a responsibility to protect the physical features and historic character of properties designated in sections 138.662 and 138.664 or listed on the National Register of Historic Places created by Public Law 89-665. Before carrying out any undertaking that will affect designated or listed properties, or funding or licensing an undertaking by other parties, the state department or agency shall consult with the Minnesota Historical Society pursuant to the society's established procedures to determine appropriate treatments and to seek ways to avoid and mitigate any adverse effects on designated or listed properties. (M.S. 138.665, subd. 2, ex.)
Likewise, per the Minnesota Field Archaeology Act (MS 138.31-138.42), the County must provide the Office of the State Archaeologist and the State Historic Preservation Office with the opportunity to review and comment on development plans when archaeological sites are known to, or are suspected to, exist within the project area.
When significant archaeological or historic sites are known or, based on scientific investigations, are predicted to exist on public lands or waters, the agency or department controlling said lands or waters shall submit construction or development plans to the state archaeologist and the director of the society for review prior to the time bids are advertised. The state archaeologist and the society shall promptly review such plans and within 30 days of receiving the plans shall make recommendations for the
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preservation of archaeological or historic sites which may be endangered by construction or development activities. When archaeological or historic sites are related to Indian history or religion, the state archaeologist shall submit the plans to the Indian Affairs Council for the council's review and recommend action. (M. S. 138.40, subd. 3)
PRESERVATION TREATMENT STRATEGIES The Secretary of the Interior has identified four preservation treatment strategies for historic properties, which are described in The Secretary of the Interior’s Standards for the Treatment of Historic Properties (National Park Service 1995). The application of these treatment strategies to cultural landscapes are further detailed in The Secretary of the Interior’s Standards for the Treatment of Historic Properties with Guidelines for the Treatment of Cultural Landscapes (Birnbaum and Peters 1996). The four preservation treatment strategies outlined in these guidelines are listed below.
It should be noted that the selection of a preservation treatment strategy for the Milford Mine property, does not preclude the use of any of the other approaches to individual landscape elements as appropriate. The categories are not exclusionary, but may be used in tandem to best meet the preservation needs of the resource(s). The preservation treatment strategies are arranged from the least intrusive to the most intensive based on the integrity and amount of original historic material and features present.
For the Milford Mine Historic District, preservation will generally be the most appropriate treatment strategy.
PRESERVATION Preservation requires retention of the greatest amount of historic fabric, including the landscape’s historic form, features, and details as they have evolved over time.
Preservation is defined as the act or process of applying measures necessary to sustain the existing form, integrity, and materials of an historic property. In a preservation approach, the options for replacement and new additions are limited. Work, including preliminary measures to protect and stabilize the property, generally focuses upon the ongoing maintenance and repair of historic materials and features rather than extensive replacement and new construction.
When the property’s distinctive materials, features, and spaces are essentially intact and thus convey the historic significance without extensive repair or replacement; when depiction at a particular period of time is not appropriate; and when a continuing or new use does not require additions or extensive alterations, preservation may be considered as a treatment. Prior to undertaking work, a documentation plan for Preservation should be developed.
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REHABILITATION Rehabilitation acknowledges the need to alter or add to a cultural landscape to meet continuing or new uses while retaining the landscape’s historic character.
Rehabilitation is defined as the act or process of making possible a compatible use for a property through repair, alterations, and additions while preserving those portions or features which convey its historical, cultural, or architectural values.
When repair and replacement of deteriorated features are necessary; when alterations or additions to the property are planned for a new or continued use; and when its depiction at a particular period of time is not appropriate, Rehabilitation may be considered as a treatment. Prior to undertaking work, a documentation plan for Rehabilitation should be developed.
RESTORATION Restoration allows for the depiction of a landscape at a particular time in its history by preserving materials from the period of significance and removing materials from other periods.
Restoration is defined as the act or process of accurately depicting the form, features, and character of a property as it appeared at a particular period of time by means of the removal of features from other periods in its history and reconstruction of missing features from the restoration period.
When the property’s design, architectural, or historical significance during a particular period of time outweighs the potential loss of extant materials, features, spaces, and finishes that characterize other historical periods; when there is substantial physical and documentary evidence for the work; and when contemporary alterations and additions are not planned, Restoration may be considered as a treatment. Prior to undertaking work, a particular period of time, i.e., the restoration period, should be selected and justified, and a documentation plan for Restoration developed.
RECONSTRUCTION Reconstruction establishes a framework for re-creating a vanished or non-surviving landscape with new materials, primarily for interpretive purposes.
Reconstruction is defined as the act or process of depicting, by means of new construction, the form, features, and detailing of a non-surviving site, landscape, building, structure, or object for the purpose of replicating its appearance at a specific period of time and in its historic location.
When a contemporary depiction is required to understand and interpret a property's historic value (including the re-creation of missing components in a historic district or site); when no other property with the same associative value has survived; and when sufficient historical documentation exists to ensure an accurate reproduction, Reconstruction may be considered as a treatment. Prior to undertaking work, a documentation plan for Reconstruction should be developed.
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PRESERVATION TREATMENT STRATEGY CONSIDERATIONS In choosing the most appropriate preservation approach to the Milford Mine Historic District, a number of practical and philosophical variables need to be considered including, but not limited to, the property’s planned use, the extent of historic documentation available, existing physical conditions, short and long-term objectives, and operating and maintenance costs. The impact of the treatment on any significant archeological and natural resources should also be considered in this decision making process.
In addition, per the Guidelines for the Treatment of Cultural Landscapes, all of the following factors are also to be considered in the selection of an appropriate treatment strategy, not just for the property overall, but each time an action, either large and small, is considered that will affect the resource.
Change and Continuity. A balance is to be struck between change and continuity in the landscape. While both natural processes and human activities result in often unavoidable change in the landscape, efforts should be made to acknowledge change while emphasizing the retention of distinctive landscape characteristics.
Geographical Context. How the surroundings of a cultural landscape contribute to its significance and its historic character should be considered prior to treatment.
Use. Historic, current, and proposed use of the cultural landscape must be considered prior to treatment selection. Historic use is directly linked to the property’s significance while current and proposed use(s) may affect integrity and existing conditions.
Archaeological Resources. The appropriate treatment of a cultural landscape includes the identification and preservation of significant archaeological resources. Sites not only have historical value in their own right, but can reveal important information about a cultural landscape and its development.
Natural Systems. Cultural landscapes often derive their character from a human response to natural features and systems. In selecting an appropriate treatment, the impact on the natural systems of the mine site must be considered.
Management and Maintenance. Long-term management strategies and maintenance tasks, when well-planned can sustain the character and integrity of a property over an extended period. Care should be taken to not minimize routine maintenance activities, such as trail upkeep or landscape plan implementation, that over time may have a cumulative impact on the historic character of the property.
Interpretation. The interpretation of a property allows visitors to understand and “read” the cultural landscape. Given the dearth of above-ground resources present, the Milford Mine site would benefit from an interpretive plan that allows visitors to visualize the property during the period of historical significance.
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Interpretive goals should complement treatment selection, reflecting the landscape’s significance and historic character.
Special Requirements. Work that must be done to meet accessibility, health and safety, environmental protection, and energy efficiency requirements are often considered separately from a property’s preservation plan, but in assessing the potential impact of these undertakings on the cultural landscape solutions should be sought that achieve the goal of the requirement with the lowest level of impact on the landscape’s historical integrity.
MILFORD MINE PRESERVATION TREATMENT APPROACH The Milford Mine Historic District is encompassed by a county park that will be utilized primarily by visitors to the historic site, hikers, nature enthusiasts, and boaters. It is the objective of Crow Wing County to develop a memorial park to the 41 miners who lost their lives in the 1924 disaster that preserves the historic features and characteristics of the site and conserves the area’s natural habitat.
Of the four preservation treatment approaches (preservation, rehabilitation, restoration, and reconstruction), Preservation is recommended as the most appropriate approach within the Milford Mine Historic District as the planned use focuses on the retention of the site’s historic features; the district retains excellent integrity of its principal historic characteristics; and no major alterations or additions to the property are anticipated.
The implementation of a Preservation treatment approach will ensure that future undertakings within the Milford Mine Historic District will meet the Preservation guidelines below as outlined in the Guidelines for the Treatment of Cultural Landscapes. It should be noted that the selection of Preservation as the guiding tenant for preservation within the Milford Mine Historic District, does not preclude the use of rehabilitation, restoration, and reconstruction approaches to individual landscape characteristics as long as all work is in keeping with the Preservation guidelines.
1. The use of the Milford Mine Historic District will maximize retention of distinctive materials, features, spaces, and spatial relationships. Where a treatment and use have not been identified, a property will be protected and, if necessary, stabilized until an appropriate treatment plan is developed and implemented.
2. The historic character of the Milford Mine site will be retained and preserved. The replacement of intact or repairable historic materials or alteration of features, spaces, and spatial relationships that characterize the mine site will be avoided.
3. The Milford Mine Historic District and its components will be recognized as a physical record of its time, place, and use. Work needed to stabilize, consolidate, and conserve existing historic materials and features will be physically and visually compatible, identifiable upon close inspection, and properly documented for future research.
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4. Post-1932 changes to the Milford Mine Historic District that have acquired historic significance in their own right shall be retained and preserved, however, at this time no such features have been identified.
5. Distinctive materials, features, finishes, and construction techniques or examples of craftsmanship that characterize the Milford Mine Historic District will be preserved.
6. The existing condition of historic features will be evaluated to determine the appropriate level of intervention needed. Where the severity of deterioration necessitates repair or limited replacement of a distinctive feature, the new material will match the old in composition, design, color, and texture, yet be discernible from the original.
7. Chemical or physical treatments, if appropriate, will be undertaken using the gentlest means possible. Treatments that cause damage to historic materials will not be used.
8. Archaeological resources will be protected and preserved in place. If such resources must be disturbed, mitigation measures will be undertaken prior to disturbance.
For specific information on the implementation of these standards with regard to landscape characteristics (e.g., vegetation, circulation, and structures) see the “Guidelines for Rehabilitating Cultural Landscapes” (http://www.nps.gov/TPS/standards/ four-treatments/landscape-guidelines/preserve/approach.htm) within Guidelines for the Treatment of Cultural Landscapes.
GUIDELINES AND RECOMMENDATIONS The following preservation priorities and general recommendations are made for the Milford Mine Historic District as a whole. For specific treatment considerations for individual elements, refer to their descriptions in Chapters 4 and 5.
GUIDELINES FOR DESIGN AND CONSTRUCTION
Park Design and SHPO Review . Development plans should be in keeping with the recommendations of the Cultural Landscape Report.
. All project plans are reviewed by State Historic Preservation Office (SHPO) for potential effects to the site’s historically significant features and viewsheds. These include, but are not limited to:
o Trail plans o Infrastructure designs (e.g., shelters, bridges, benches, and signage) o Repair and stabilization treatment plans
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Materials . Where examples of materials used during the mine’s period of significance exist consider using similar or compatible materials such as industrial weight elements, iron, railroad rail, angle iron, wood timbers, heavy fittings, corrugated sheet metal, etc.
. The use of incompatible materials, such as asphalt for trail surfaces and landscape block retaining walls, should be avoided as these materials diminish the feeling (historic sense) of the historic district. Appropriate materials in these applications would be dirt and gravel for trails and timbers for retaining walls as both of these materials were in use during the mine’s period of operation.
Trails . New trails should follow historic corridors (roads and rail grades) in order to retain the historic circulation routes and avoid disturbance to landscape features and archaeological features.
. Trail construction will avoid cutting and will not fill ditches/utility trenches or depressions, but instead use culverts or small bridges to carry the trail across these features.
. Trails should be surfaced with material similar to the historic materials (dirt and gravel). The gravel utilized in the parking lot and approach to the existing picnic shelter in 2010 is consistent with road gravels documented in shovel tests and soil probes.
Construction . Any areas of subsurface disturbance or excavation (including new post holes) will undergo archaeological testing prior to construction.
. Ground-protection measures (e.g., construction mats) will be utilized during construction to limit disturbance to subsurface features and the creation of ruts by equipment.
. Prior to construction, historic resources (e.g., foundations) proximate to the construction limits will be temporarily fenced (e.g. silt fence, snow fence) in order to avoid their inadvertent disturbance.
. Construction monitoring by a professional archaeologist, who is familiar with the site and its history, is recommended to ensure that historic resources are avoided, and to document any unanticipated discoveries.
. Prior to the start of work, the entire construction crew should be briefed on the historical significance of the site and instructed to stop work immediately and notify the County’s project manager if any foundations, artifacts, etc. are encountered during construction. Although inadvertent discoveries may necessitate work stoppages in portions of the construction zone, these unanticipated finds are often among the most interesting and will further our understanding of the mine site and its workers.
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DETERIORATION OF CONCRETE AND MASONRY FEATURES Several of the building foundations and structural remains within the Milford Mine Historic District are constructed of concrete or mortared stone that has begun to deteriorate. These features are in need of repair and maintenance. Spalling, delamination, and cracking are occurring in response to cyclic freezing and thawing. Soil subsidence and erosion, particularly at the northeast corner of the Engine (Hoist) House is also evident (Figure 114). Vegetation growth within these features is further exacerbating these processes. If this deterioration continues unchecked it will result in the loss of these features.
Unrestricted visitor access to these resources will also lead to their further deterioration. Some ruins (particularly the Engine [Hoist] House) also pose safety hazards for visitors due to the presence of voids and openings in floors (Figure 115).
FIGURE 114. COLLAPSED NORTHEAST CORNER OF ENGINE (HOIST) HOUSE FOUNDATION, VIEW TO SOUTHWEST
FIGURE 115. COLLAPSED FLOOR AND VOID (ARROW) WITHIN THE RUIN OF THE ENGINE (HOIST) HOUSE
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For these reasons, the following options should be considered in consultation with SHPO:
. Pending their stabilization, temporarily fence ruins to prevent visitor access
. Post signs to deter visitors from disturbing features (ex. “Protect Our Past: Do Not Climb or Walk on Ruins”)
. Post signs to encourage visitors to stay on paths
. Develop and implement a treatment plan for the structural remains listed below. The treatment plan(s) should be developed by a consultant familiar with the Secretary of the Interior’s Preservation Standards, and implemented by a contractor experienced with historic cement repair o Engine (Hoist) House (Building 2) o Dry House (Building 5) o Garage (Building 6) o Machine Shop (Building 1)
. Consider visually appropriate, fencing or barriers around ruins (Figure 116)
Preservation of historic structures should always be performed in accordance with the Secretary of Interior’s Standards (http://www.nps.gov/tps/standards.htm) and in consultation with SHPO. Guidelines for the repair and protection of historic concrete are provided in the National Park Service’s Preservation Brief 15: Preservation of Historic Concrete. Detailed information on the cleaning, coating, and repointing of historic masonry buildings, as well as the removal of graffiti, are provided in Preservation Briefs Nos. 1, 2, and 38 (http://www.nps.gov/tps/how-topreserve/briefs.htm).
FIGURE 116. EXAMPLE OF FENCING OF RUINS AT CROFT MINE HISTORICAL PARK
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VISITOR SAFETY As a former underground mine and industrial complex, the Milford Mine site presents a variety of hazards. Notable among these dangers are the mine’s abandoned shafts; openings and voids within the ruins of buildings; exploratory drill hole collars; inundated cellar holes; steep slopes and unstable surfaces.
The Secretary of the Interior’s guidelines advocate the preservation of character-defining features, materials, and finishes while complying with health and safety code requirements. The guidelines also recommend investigating approaches that go above and beyond safety codes in their effectiveness in order to avoid future unnecessary alterations that may further impact the site (having to replace the fence with a sturdier version requiring excavating new footings, etc.). New features that are necessary to meet health and safety codes should also be in keeping with character-defining features, materials, and finishes. Furthermore, they should not damage or obscure the character- defining features.
A combination of fencing and signage is recommended to address the hazards present within the Milford Mine Historic District. Further specific recommendations are provided in the previous section on Concrete and Masonry Features and in the descriptions of the mine’s shafts and other individual features.
VEGETATION MANAGEMENT It is recommended that a long-term vegetation management plan be developed that addresses the following recommendations:
. Ruins and corridors (rail grades and former roads) should be kept free of trees and brush in order to maintain their historic character.
. Trees should be removed from within and immediate to the industrial and residential areas in order to restore the setting and feeling of the mine site during its period of historical significance.
. Trees and vegetation should be cleared from the stockpile grounds in order to restore the setting and feeling of this feature and to make it visible to visitors.
. Retain ornamental landscape plants (e.g. irises) associated with the occupation of the site.
Any vegetation to be removed should be cut to grade (not pulled) and treated with herbicide, as necessary, to prevent regrowth. In order to protect archaeological resources, stumps should not be pulled or ground and the use of heavy equipment should be avoided.
NATIONAL REGISTER FORM UPDATE The National Register Nomination form for the Milford Mine Historic District should be updated to incorporate new information and maps uncovered during the course of this study including the identification of new features (e.g. Timber Shaft No. 2) and revisions to former feature identifications (e.g. tailings piles).
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Based on findings from this study, it is recommended that the boundaries of the Milford Mine Historic District also be revised to include the entire SW ¼ of Section 23 excepting Island Lake (SE-SW, Lots 5 and 6), and all of the W ½ of the SE ¼ of Section 23 (Township 47N, Range 29W) (Figure 39). This boundary would encompass the entirety of the Milford Mine’s operations as well as the post-disaster railroad spur. It is further recommended, that the County examine adding the SW ¼ of the SE ¼ of Section 23 to the park.
INTERPRETATION PLAN A park-wide interpretation plan should be developed. Given the dearth of above-ground resources present, interpretation should not only present the history of the site, but also allow visitors to visualize the property during the period of historical significance. The direct connection between the mine’s operations and the present landscape of the park should be illustrated through historic photos, maps, diagrams, etc.
Consider development of a self-guided, GPS-based tour app, which would allow for the incorporation of primary source material, images, etc. into the visitor’s experience without the introduction of extensive signage.
PROTECTION OF ARCHAEOLOGICAL RESOURCES Archaeological resources are to be protected and preserved in place. Subsurface impacts should be avoided within the boundary of site 21CW282, which encompasses the entirety of the historic core (see Figure 3). If ground-disturbing activities (including post holes) are necessary in these areas, archaeological investigations must take place prior to the undertaking. If archaeological resources are identified, and disturbance cannot be avoided, mitigation measures must be undertaken including data recovery, documentation and curation, as necessary.
Prior to the start of work, the entire construction crew should be briefed on the historical significance of the site and instructed to stop work immediately and notify the County’s project manager if any archaeological discoveries (e.g, foundations, artifacts) are encountered during construction. Furthermore, construction should be monitored by a professional archaeologist, who is familiar with the site and its history, in order to ensure that resources are avoided, and to document any unanticipated discoveries. Although inadvertent discoveries may necessitate work stoppages in portions of the construction zone, these unanticipated finds are often among the most interesting and informative. Documentation and protection of these finds will further our understanding of the mine site and its workers.
During construction ground-protection measures (construction mats) should be used to protect subsurface deposits from disturbance and the creation of ruts by equipment.
Prior to the opening of the park, any large-scale artifacts present on the surface that visitors may be tempted to remove for souvenirs should be collected by the County and saved for future interpretation or curation with an appropriate public institution.
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VISITOR AMENITIES As the County considers long-term plans for the Milford Mine Memorial Park, visitor amenities (e.g., portable toilets) should not be placed within or in the viewshed of the historic core. Areas proximate to the existing parking lots, access road, and picnic shelter are appropriate locations for visitor amenities.
ATV AND SNOWMOBILE TRAFFIC To protect the site from damage, barriers should be placed along access points into the historic district from the west and southwest in order to deter motorized vehicle traffic through the property.
PRESERVE, PROTECT, SHARE
On February 5, 1924, the Milford Mine was the site of Minnesota’s worst iron ore mining accident in which 41 miners lost their lives. The historical significance of this site was recognized in 2011, with the listing of the Milford Mine Historic District on the National Register. Contained within the boundary of the district are the remains of structures and archaeological features that document the operation of the mine and the daily lives of its workers, together with the grades of the rail lines that once serviced the mine, and the roadways that connected it to neighboring locations. Since the mines’ abandonment in 1932, the isolated nature of the site has contributed to its excellent preservation.
Following the recommendations of this Cultural Landscape Report in the development of the Milford Mine Memorial Park will ensure that as the County seeks to share this site with the public that it will continue to preserve and protect for generations to come the very features and characteristics that make this one of the Minnesota’s most unique and significant historical places.
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BIBLIOGRAPHY OF PRESERVATION GUIDELINES
FEDERAL GUIDELINES The Secretary of the Interior’s Standards for the Treatment of Historic Properties and Guidelines for the Treatment of Cultural Landscapes. National Park Service, Department of the Interior, Washington, D.C., 1996.
http://www.nps.gov/TPS/standards/four-treatments/landscape- guidelines/index.htm
Protecting Cultural Landscapes. Planning, Treatment and Management of Historic Landscapes. Preservation Brief 36. Heritage Preservation Services, National Park Service, Washington, D.C., 1994.
http://www.nps.gov/tps/how-to-preserve/briefs/36-cultural-landscapes.htm
The Secretary of the Interior’s Standards for the Treatment of Historic Properties. National Park Service, Department of the Interior, Washington, D.C., 1995.
http://www.nps.gov/tps/standards.htm
How to Apply the National Register Criteria for Evaluation. National Register Bulletin No. 15. Government Printing Office, Washington, D.C., 1997.
http://www.nps.gov/nr/publications/bulletins/nrb15/
Secretary of the Interior's Standards and Guidelines for Archeology and Historic Preservation. National Park Service, Department of the Interior, Washington, D.C., 2002.
http://www.nps.gov/history/local-law/arch_stnds_0.htm
Preservation of Historic Concrete. Preservation Brief 15. U.S. Department of the Interior, National Park Service, Washington, D.C., 2007.
http://www.nps.gov/tps/how-to-preserve/briefs/15-concrete.htm#repair
STATE GUIDELINES Guidelines for History/Architecture Projects in Minnesota. State Historic Preservation Office, St. Paul, 2010.
http://www.mnhs.org/shpo/survey/docs_pdfs/HistoryArchitectureSurveyManualO ctober2010.pdf
State Archaeologist’s Manual for Archaeological Projects in Minnesota. Office of the State Archaeologist, St. Paul, 2011.
http://www.osa.admin.state.mn.us/documents/OSAmanual.pdf
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SHPO Manual for Archaeological Projects in Minnesota. State Historic Preservation Office, St. Paul, 2005.
http://www.mnhs.org/shpo/survey/archsurvey.pdf
OTHER Deterring Off-Trail Hiking in Protected Natural Areas: Evaluating Options with Surveys and Unobtrusive Observation. Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, College of Natural Resources, Forestry/Recreation Resources, Hagerstown, Maryland, 2010.
http://www.pwrc.usgs.gov/prodabs/pubpdfs/7495_hockett.pdf
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