​​Mining

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Early mining exploration began in this vast and remote mountain region in 1870 when four trapper/prospectors found galena deposits in elevations of over 7,000 feet. The township of Cooke City became the major camp for prospectors and investment companies. From the initial Discovery to the Open Cut Development Period the citizens held fast to all the hopes and dreams of a typical mining camp. The New World Mining District was organized and with incredible determination claims were staked, roads and smelters were built and massive mining equipment appeared on these mountain slopes.