Illinois Salines, Prehistoric salt spring in Gallatin County, United States.
The Illinois Salines consists of natural brine springs situated along the Saline River, providing substantial salt deposits through underground water sources.
The springs operated as Illinois' first major industry after European settlement and remained one of the few locations where slavery continued legally until 1825.
Archaeological excavations revealed pottery vessels measuring four feet across, displaying basket impressions from Indigenous manufacturing techniques spanning multiple periods.
The site lies half a mile west of the Saline River bridge on Illinois Route 13, with coordinates at latitude 37.705 and longitude -88.2953.
The springs generated one-third of Illinois state revenue through salt production until 1870, when competition from West Virginia mines ended operations.
Location: Gallatin County
GPS coordinates: 37.70500,-88.29530
Latest update: March 11, 2025 00:02
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