Cole Mine

Bisbee, Cochise County, Arizona, USA

Key Information

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The Cole Mine is in Bisbee, Cochise County, Arizona, USA, about 1.5 miles west-northwest of Warren, near the Mexican border.
It is known for producing copper, silver, bismuth, azurite, and the rare claringbullite, appealing to mineral enthusiasts.
Research suggests the mine is in sedimentary rocks of the Bisbee Group, with copper linked to Jurassic igneous intrusions.
It seems likely that mining started in the late 19th century, was active until the mid-1970s, and used underground methods.
The evidence leans toward Bisbee’s mining culture shaping local identity, with the Cole Mine contributing to the town’s history.
The climate is semi-arid, with hot, dry summers and cold winters, possibly aiding mineral preservation.

Geographic Location

The Cole Mine is located in Bisbee, Cochise County, Arizona, approximately 1.5 miles west-northwest of Warren, in the Mule Mountains. This area is in the southeastern part of Arizona, close to the Mexican border, and is part of a historically rich mining district known for its mineral wealth.

Minerals Produced

The mine is renowned for producing copper, silver, and bismuth. Notably, it yields azurite, a striking blue copper mineral, and claringbullite, a rare hydrated copper chloride, making it particularly interesting for collectors seeking unique specimens.

Geological Structure

Research suggests the Cole Mine is situated within the sedimentary rocks of the Bisbee Group, which include sandstone, claystone, limestone, and conglomerate from the Cretaceous period. The evidence leans toward copper mineralization being associated with igneous intrusions from the Jurassic period, adding complexity to the area’s geology.

Mining History

It seems likely that mining at the Cole Mine began in the late 19th century, with ownership shifting from the Lake Superior & Western Development Company to the Calumet and Arizona Mining Company, and finally to the Phelps Dodge Corporation. The mine was active from the early 1900s until the mid-1970s, employing underground methods, and was a significant contributor to Bisbee’s reputation as a major copper-producing region.

Local Culture and Characteristics

Bisbee’s mining culture has deeply influenced its local identity, with historic buildings, museums, and tours like the Queen Mine Tour reflecting this heritage. The Cole Mine, though less famous, played a key role in shaping the town’s economy and community, contributing to its historical significance.

Climate and Ecology

The area has a semi-arid climate, with hot, dry summers and cold winters, which may have helped preserve the minerals found in the mine by reducing moisture-related degradation.