Emperius Mine

Creede Mining District, Mineral County, Colorado, USA

Key Information

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The Emperius Mine is in the San Juan Mountains, north of Creede, Colorado, USA, at 10,000 feet elevation.
It produced silver, lead, zinc, and copper, with galena and sphalerite as main ores.
The mine's geology involves volcanic rhyolites and hydrothermal mineralization along the Amethyst Fault.
Mining started in the 1890s, consolidated in 1942, and ended in 1976, using shrinkage and flotation methods.
Creede has a rich Old West culture, linked to figures like Soapy Smith and Robert Ford, with modern tourism focus.
The climate is cold and snowy in winter, mild in summer, with diverse ecology in the San Juan National Forest.

Geographic Location

The Emperius Mine is located in the Creede Mining District, Mineral County, Colorado, USA, about 1.85 kilometers north of the town of Creede in the San Juan Mountains, part of the Rocky Mountains. At 10,000 feet elevation, it's near other notable mines like the Amethyst and Commodore Mines, making it a significant site for mineral enthusiasts.

Minerals Produced

Research suggests the mine primarily produced silver, lead, zinc, and copper, with key ores including galena (lead sulfide) and sphalerite (zinc sulfide), alongside silver and gold. Other minerals like tetrahedrite and malachite were also found, offering unexpected variety for collectors.

Geological Structure

The evidence leans toward the mine being in volcanic rhyolites, specifically Campbell Mountain and Willow Creek Rhyolites, with mineralization occurring hydrothermally along the Amethyst Fault, a fascinating detail for those interested in geological processes.

Mining History

It seems likely that mining began in the 1890s with individual mines, consolidated into the Emperius Mine in 1942, using overhand shrinkage and flotation methods, and ceased operations in 1976, owned by various companies, reflecting a complex history.

Local Culture and Characteristics

Creede, near the mine, has a vibrant Old West heritage, attracting figures like Soapy Smith and Robert Ford, and today focuses on tourism with historic sites and the Creede Repertory Theatre, adding cultural depth to the visit.

Climate and Ecology

The area has a Continental Subarctic climate, with cold, snowy winters and mild summers, averaging 35.4°F annually, and is part of the San Juan National Forest, offering diverse ecology for outdoor activities, an unexpected bonus for visitors.