When it comes to historical, state-shaping industries, mining plays a massive part in nearly the entire western half of the United States, to which Colorado is no exception. Before its founding in 1876, gold and silver mines brought in thousands of miners and their families, boosting both the Centennial State’s population and revenue. Sadly, not everyone’s quest for prosperity had a happy ending, as one Colorado mine experienced a fatal explosion, and is still on fire nearly 125 years later:

Tucked away along the Western Slope is the small municipality of New Castle, which is home to almost 2,000 residents and an old mine that has been burning for well over a century. 

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Located a mere 10 miles from town lies the incredible Vulcan Mine, which has experienced three tragic explosions, two of which are considered to be the worst in Colorado history. 

YouTube/Ann Louise Ramsey

Nestled along the Gunnison Gold Belt, Vulcan is said to have been the most profitable in the district but experienced the unthinkable on February 18, 1896, when a section of the mine exploded and killed 49. 

YouTube/Ann Louise Ramsey

In addition to the tragic deaths, the explosion at the Vulcan Mine resulted in a fire that still burns nearly 125 years later. 

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Despite the fatal accident and unprecedented fire, the Vulcan Mine re-opened shortly after the tragedy, resulting in yet another explosion (and additional 37 deaths) on December 12, 1913.

YouTube/Ann Louise Ramsey

As if this was not unbelievable enough, Vulcan re-opened - and exploded - yet again, this time killing three men who were extracting sulfur for munitions manufacturing for World War I.

YouTube/Ann Louise Ramsey

While the Vulcan Mine is located on private property, steam and smoke can still be seen rising from the upward Horse Mountain, which also experiences rapid snow melt due to the underground heat. 

YouTube/Ann Louise Ramsey

To get an even better look into this incredible story, check out this video from YouTube user, Ann Louise Ramsey:

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YouTube/Ann Louise Ramsey

Flickr/Triratna_Photos

For even more fascinating Colorado mining history, click on These 17 Rare Photos Show Colorado’s Mining History Like Never Before.

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Address: Vulcan Mine, Colorado 80435, USA