Silver Islet
A rich deposit of silver was discovered on Silver Islet in 1868. A small island at the tip of the Sibley Peninsula, the mine was built deep below the waterline, and relied on breakwaters and pumps.
Silver Islet was mined until 1884, when pumps failed, and the mine was flooded. The small community built on shore to support the mine is still inhabited.
These photographs date from the time of the mine's operations, or a few decades afterwards.
A plan of the mine. The document held by the Archives is a photostat of an original, dated 1878.
Buildings at Silver Islet, circa 1890.
Four mine workers on Silver Islet, circa 1890.
The town of Silver Islet, with the main building (general store) and smaller homes along the shorefront. Two ships docked at the marina. Circa 1890.
The town of Silver Islet, from the view of Lake Superior. The general store can be seen, along with many homes along the shore. Circa 1884.
Silver Islet during the winter. Three men and a dogsled. Circa 1890.
The "Immense Stamp Mill" on Silver Islet cost around $100,000. Circa 1890. 3 workers can been seen in the photograph.
The main mine shaft located on Silver Islet. Photograph includes both miners and several children. Circa 1890.
On Silver Islet Mine was the 200 Engine House and Main Shaft. These buildings on Silver Islet are all destroyed now, about 1885-1890.
Buildings located on the Silver Islet Mine. Date on photograph, April 1964.
The building in this photograph is of the General Store located in the town. Two people are standing on the dock in the marina. Circa 1890.
Silver Islet Mine 1902.
Silver Islet Mine, 1900. Multiple buildings that are built on the island.
Some of the main buildings on the Silver Islet Mine, circa 1890.
Interior view of the old Jail located on Silver Islet, circa 1890.
Silver Islet Mine in Operation during the 1870’s. Few workers in the background.
The town of Silver Islet, circa 1890.
The old Government Office and Bank located on the historic Silver Islet, circa 1890.
The “Livingstone Mansion” at Silver Islet, Lake Superior. Circa 1876.
A look at the Silver Islet Mine, circa 1880.
Aerial view of the town of Silver Islet, circa 1880. Many homes and buildings operating on the shorelines.
View of the Silver Islet Mines, circa 1890.