On This Date in Minnesota History: November 16

November 16, 1890 – “The first iron ore was discovered on the Missabe (Mesabi) Range at Mountain Iron, on [this date]. It was found three quarters of a mile north of this [plaque] by Captain J.A. Nichols for the Merritt Brothers.”

http://www.waymarking.com/waymarks/WMGCMT_Missabe_Range_Ore_Discovery_Mountain_Iron_MN

This historical marker is mounted on a granite rock in a park on the main street of Mountain Iron.

Text on Marker:

“The first iron ore was discovered on the Missabe (Mesabi) Range at Mountain Iron, on November 16, 1890. It was found three quarters of a mile north of this place by Captain J.A. Nichols for the Merritt Brothers.

“The first development work was done by Captain A.P. Woods in 1891-1892.

“A shaft was sunk in 1892 and the first ore was taken from the mine for shipment.

“The first car of ore was shipped from Mountain Iron October 17, 1892 and was sent to Duluth where it was on exhibition. This shipment of 20 tons assaying 65 per cent metallic iron, was sent in standard wooden ore car No. 342.

“4,245 tons of ore were shipped during the year 1892 from the Mountain Iron Mine.

“This monument was erected to commemorate the fortieth anniversary of the discovery of iron ore and the Missabe Range.

“Dedicated June 13, 1931.”

The marker was given by the Citizens of Mountain Iron.

http://www.waymarking.com/gallery/image.aspx?f=1&guid=65721d61-25ba-43d1-b206-550fa3263b29

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