New Idria Mine

This bronze casts fifty-four miles, roughly the road distance from this Paicines junction to the mine. From 1854 to 1972 it was the second most productive mercury mine in North America, over 38 million pounds of a metal the gold fields used to recover gold. What it left is a Superfund site, listed in 2011. Acid drainage from an old adit runs over waste piles covering more than forty acres and into San Carlos Creek, and a 2010 fire destroyed nearly half the old buildings in the town's northern part.

What the plaque says

54 Miles New Idria Mine, ranks among the most famous quicksilver mines of world. Named for Idria Mine, then in Austria. Mission fathers, before American occupation, made assays and determined ore to be cinnabar. Work begun in 50's. In 1881 between two and three hundred men were employed. Historical Landmark No. 324 Department of Public Works - Division of Highways

Where it stands

More markers nearby

• Fremont Peak — 13 mi
• Castro-Breen Adobe — 16 mi
• Plaza Hotel — 16 mi
• Mission San Juan Bautista and Plaza — 16 mi