Mariscal Mine, Mercury mine in Big Bend National Park, United States.
Description
Mariscal Mine is a cinnabar extraction site in Big Bend National Park containing substantial ruins of industrial structures like storage bins, a furnace, condensing chambers, and a prominent brick chimney set against the desert. The stone and brick structures remain largely intact and display how the refining process operated.
History
Operating from 1900 to 1943, this cinnabar mine produced around 1,400 flasks of mercury that represented roughly one quarter of total US mercury output during that era. The operation was a significant source of raw materials for the nation throughout those decades.
Culture
Mexican workers made up the main labor force here, building their own shelters from rocks and brush while earning minimal wages for grueling daily shifts.
Practical
Access via River Road East requires high-clearance vehicles since the route is rough and challenging to drive. Visitors should exercise caution around abandoned structures and stay away from open mine shafts.
Did you know?
The processing at this site relied on a custom Scott Furnace built from local clay that extracted mercury from cinnabar through a vaporization and condensation method. This technique was notably efficient for its time.
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide. Discover all places nearby (Brewster County).
Emory Peak
20.3 km
Javelina Formation
30.8 km
Hot Springs
20.8 km
Luna Jacal
36.3 km
Homer Wilson Ranch
21.9 km
Boquillas Canyon
32 km
Daniels Farm House
23.2 km
Sotol Vista Overlook
22.8 km
Panther Junction Visitor Center
26 km
Panther Junction Mission 66 Historic District
26 km
Castolon Historic District
32.2 km
Castolon Ranger Station
32.2 km
Dugout Wells
20.3 km
Chisos Basin Visitor Center
22.4 km
Panther Junction Gas Station
26.2 km
Rio Grande Village Campground Amphitheater
24.1 km
Rio Grande Village Campground
24.4 km
Homer Wilson Ranch Overlook
22.3 km
Castolon Store
32.1 km
Alvino House
32.2 km
Recreation Building
32.1 km
Boquillas Canyon Overlook
27.9 km
Langford Hot Springs
20.9 km
Livingston House
20.4 km
Hot Springs Store
20.5 km
Tuff Canyon
30.2 km
Tornillo Creek Bridge
20.3 km
Hot Springs Cabins
20.5 kmDiscover hidden gems everywhere you go!
From secret cafés to breathtaking viewpoints, skip the crowded tourist spots and find places that match your style. Our app makes it easy with voice search, smart filtering, route optimization, and insider tips from travelers worldwide. Download now for the complete mobile experience.
A unique approach to discovering new places❞
— Le Figaro
All the places worth exploring❞
— France Info
A tailor-made excursion in just a few clicks❞
— 20 Minutes