Cave-in-Rock Mining Sub-District

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Hardin County, Illinois, USA

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Key Information

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  • The Cave-in-Rock Mining Sub-District in Hardin County, Illinois, is a significant area for mineral crystal enthusiasts, known for its fluorite and other minerals.

  • It is located in southeastern Illinois along the Ohio River, with nearby mining towns like Elizabethtown and Rosiclare.

  • The area features sedimentary rocks, mainly limestone, hosting Mississippi Valley-type deposits.

  • Mining began in the 1840s and ended in 1995, with notable mines like Minerva No. 1 and Crystal Mine.

  • The region has a history of outlaws and is now a tourist attraction with Cave-in-Rock State Park.

  • The climate is humid subtropical, with diverse river valley ecosystems.

Location and Geography

The Cave-in-Rock Mining Sub-District is in Hardin County, Illinois, along the Ohio River, in the southeastern part of the state. This area, part of the Illinois-Kentucky Fluorspar District, is near other mining towns like Elizabethtown and Rosiclare, making it a hub for mineral exploration.

Minerals and Geology

This sub-district is famous for fluorite, but also hosts a variety of other minerals, including baryte, calcite, and aragonite. The geological structure consists mainly of sedimentary limestone, with minerals formed in Mississippi Valley-type deposits, offering unique crystal formations for enthusiasts.

History and Culture

Mining here started in the 1840s and lasted until 1995, with key mines like Minerva No. 1, discovered in 1940, and Crystal Mine. The area has a colorful past as a hideout for outlaws in the 18th and 19th centuries, and today, Cave-in-Rock State Park attracts visitors with its historical and natural allure.

Climate and Ecology

Hardin County enjoys a humid subtropical climate, with hot summers and mild winters, and receives about 36.9 inches of annual precipitation. The ecology features diverse forests and riverine ecosystems along the Ohio River, enhancing the area's natural beauty.

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