Ruggles Mine – Mica Mining in New Hampshire
Ruggles Mine, nestled near Grafton, New Hampshire, stands as a testament to the rich mining history of the United States. Established around 1805, this mica mine thrived for over 150 years, evolving from a bustling industrial site to a captivating tourist destination. Its story is one of entrepreneurial spirit, geological wonders, and the enduring allure of the Granite State.
The Discovery and Early Years
The story of Ruggles Mine begins in 1803 with Samuel Ruggles, a shrewd merchant from Boston, Massachusetts. Ruggles, driven by a keen eye for opportunity, recognized the potential of the minerals hidden within Isinglass Mountain. In July 1805, he acquired a parcel of land on the mountain and embarked on a venture to extract mica, a mineral highly sought after for its use in various household products.
At the time, mica was indispensable for crafting lamp chimneys and stove windows, making it a valuable commodity. Ruggles expanded his holdings by purchasing adjacent properties in 1806 and 1810, solidifying his control over the promising mining site. The mine, which would later bear his name, holds the distinction of being the first commercial mica mine in the United States.
From Merchant to Mine Owner
Samuel Ruggles’s foray into the mining industry marked a significant shift in his career. On November 9, 1825, he placed his first advertisement for mica, then known as "sheet isinglass," in the Boston Semi-Weekly Advertiser. By 1831, the Boston Directory officially listed his occupation as a merchant of sheet isinglass, complete with a storefront and warehouse in the city.
Despite his involvement in the mining operations, Ruggles never resided in New Hampshire. Instead, he hired local workers from Grafton to manage the day-to-day operations of the mine. This arrangement allowed him to oversee the business from afar while relying on the expertise of the local workforce.
Expansion and Family Legacy
In 1834, Samuel Ruggles passed the reins of the mine to his son, George Ruggles. However, the elder Ruggles remained involved in the business until his death in 1843, providing guidance and support to his son. By 1840, the mine was reportedly producing 600 to 700 pounds of mica annually, valued at $1,500.
The mine experienced a surge in production by 1869, with approximately 26,000 pounds of mica extracted in that year alone. In January 1877, the mine reported shipping 3,600 pounds of mica, highlighting its continued success. The Ruggles family maintained ownership of the mine until 1896, when it was abandoned due to bankruptcy and litigation.
Diversification and New Uses
After changing hands several times, the mine underwent a transformation in the early 20th century. Around 1912, mining operations shifted towards feldspar, a mineral essential for producing high-grade ceramics and enamel surfaces for appliances. Later, the mine also yielded beryl, the primary ore of beryllium, a metal used in atomic reactors and electrical components.
Throughout the 20th century, the mine was repeatedly reworked to extract the remaining scrap mica from previous operations. This salvaged mica found new applications in wallpaper, paint, roofing, molded insulation, lubricants, and cosmetics, demonstrating the mineral’s versatility. The recovered mica was then transported via a 3,200-foot flume to a mill located at the bottom of the hill.
The Bon Ami Era
From 1932 to 1959, the Bon Ami Company took ownership of Ruggles Mine, focusing on extracting feldspar for their renowned non-abrasive scouring powder and glass cleaner. During their tenure, the company extracted approximately ten thousand tons of feldspar annually, underscoring the mine’s productivity.
Decline and Transition to Tourism
Despite its continued value, mica mining began to decline in the early to mid-20th century. Domestic mica mining operations struggled to compete with the lower prices of mica imported from Brazil and India. By 1960, the mine was put up for sale, having produced an estimated $12 million in ore throughout its history.
The closure of Ruggles Mine marked the end of an era, as it had provided employment and revenue to numerous individuals in the area. However, the mine’s story did not end there. Recognizing its potential as a tourist attraction, the Wahlstrom family purchased the mine in the winter of 1960, capitalizing on its reputation for high-quality mica.
In 1963, Ruggles Mine opened its doors to the public, offering visitors a unique opportunity to explore its geological wonders and delve into its mining history. For over four decades, from mid-May to mid-October, tourists flocked to the mine to wander through its tunnels, marvel at its caverns, and even collect minerals such as amethyst, rose quartz, smoky quartz, and garnet.
Closure and Future Prospects
After 40 years as a popular tourist destination, Ruggles Mine closed in 2016, when owner Geraldine Searles, then 90 years old, decided to sell the property. The 235-acre site, predominantly forested, included a 2,400-square-foot building that housed a museum and gift shop. Initially listed for $2 million, the price was later reduced to $900,000.
In 2018, a local resident initiated an online petition to transform the mine into a New Hampshire state park. The New Hampshire State Park Advisory Council is currently evaluating the proposal, considering the mine’s historical, geological, and natural significance.
A Legacy Carved in Stone
Ruggles Mine, with its vast pit, intricate tunnels, and sprawling caverns, stands as the oldest and largest mine of its kind in the United States. While some of its underground chambers are now submerged in water, the mine remains a testament to the ingenuity and perseverance of those who worked within its depths.
Beyond its historical and geological value, Ruggles Mine offers breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding area and the picturesque New Hampshire landscape. With ample space for a campground, the property could serve as an ideal base for exploring other attractions in the state.
Location and Accessibility
Ruggles Mine is situated approximately 40 miles northwest of Concord, New Hampshire, near the town of Grafton. To reach the mine from Grafton, visitors must travel about 1.5 miles northwest on US-4 to Riddle Hill Road, which then continues up Isinglass Mountain for about 1.3 miles to Underhill Road, where the mine is located.
Conclusion
Ruggles Mine is more than just an abandoned mining site; it is a living monument to New Hampshire’s rich industrial past and natural beauty. Whether it becomes a state park or finds new life in another form, its legacy will undoubtedly endure for generations to come. The mine’s story is a reminder of the entrepreneurial spirit that shaped the nation, the geological wonders that lie beneath our feet, and the enduring appeal of the Granite State.