Golden Age of Mining

The golden age of Utah mining started after the first pioneers arrived in 1847. They mined important minerals like iron, lead, and coal, which were needed to construct buildings, make tools, and heat their homes. Their hard work helped them create a strong and growing community.

Dig Into History

Look at the pictures of historical figures. Click on one to dig into their story and read a short biography. You’ll also uncover a fun fact about their life. Keep exploring to discover more stories from history!

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Famous Utah Mining Figures

Samuel Newhouse was a smart businessman who came to Utah in 1896 and made millions from copper mining in Bingham Canyon. His company was one of the first to use steam shovels to dig copper.

Fun Fact

He built Utah’s first high-rise buildings in Salt Lake City!

Mary Judge moved to Utah after her husband, a mine owner, passed away. She used her money to build important buildings like the Judge Memorial Miner’s Hospital and the YMCA, and she helped her city grow.

Fun Fact

She helped build the beautiful Cathedral of the Madeleine in Salt Lake City.

David Keith started working in mines when he was just 14. He came to Utah in 1883, helped make the Ontario mine a big success, and co-founded the famous Silver King mine in Park City.

Fun Fact

The Silver King mine he helped start made over ten million dollars by 1907!

Jesse Knight struck it rich with his Humbug mine in 1886, but he treated his workers kindly and built schools, a meetinghouse, and fun places in his town, Knightville.

Fun Fact

He named his mine “Humbug” because people didn’t believe he’d find anything there, but it made him a millionaire!

Voices from the Boom

Look at the letters and journal entries on the screen. Click on one to hear the story read aloud in the audio tour. As you listen, imagine what life was like in the boomtown. Keep exploring to uncover more voices from the past!