Mines: One down, many to go
Some people use Youtube to learn how to play instruments, fix things around the house, or cook new dishes. If there was a category labeled “other,” that’s where I would be listed. About a year and a half ago, I somehow discovered a Youtube user who explores abandoned mines and uploads the videos. I’ve subsequently watched way too many videos about mines, and even read a book or two on the subject. My obsession runs deep. So, when my mom and I were on a just-for-fun road trip last week, we changed our plans on the fly in order to visit a mine. We were already farther from home than we intended to go, then drove two more hours to the mine. I typically shy from tourist attractions, but a mine is a different story. We were beyond thrilled by the time we reached the top of the winding, narrow road leading to the Soudan Mine in Soudan, Minnesota. There were several original mine buildings, and a huge headframe over the main vertical shaft. It was a beautiful, mild week