Thomas Edison's Ironworks and Mines
Posted by: 
briansnat
N 41° 03.820 W 074° 34.230
18T E 536086 N 4545913
In the 1890's Thomas Edison built a huge iron mining and processing operation here. Closed by 1900, it has since been reclaimed by nature and is relatively unknown even to locals.
Waymark Code: WM34JA
Location: New Jersey, United States
Date Posted: 02/09/2008
Views: 143
In the 1890's, Thomas Edison established an iron mining and processing complex on over 2,000 acres of land on Sparta Mountain. At its peak it employed over 500 people.
Edison invented a unique process to separate the iron from the low grade ore found at this site.
Unfortunately for Edison, shortly after he opened this complex, extensive, high quality iron ore deposits were discovered in Minnesota making Edison's operation unprofitable. He lost over 2 million dollars (quite a sum in the day) before closing the operation in 1900.
The coordinates point to a monument at the trailhead, but the entire area is rich with historic ruins, numerous hiking trails, abandoned railroads and abandoned mines. It is a fascinating area to explore and one that is known but to a handful of people.
To log your visit, there is a quote from Edison on the monument that says "I can at any time get a job at $____ a month as a telegrapher and that will amply take care of my personal requirements.". What is the dollar amount stated? Please e-mail the owner with the answer and do not place the answer in your log.
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