Welcome to the historic Bunker Hill Zinc Plant, a symbol of industrial might and environmental challenge nestled within the picturesque Coeur d’Alene Basin in Idaho. This site, originally part of the larger Bunker Hill Mine and Smelting Complex, was once the largest smelting facility in the world. It played a central role in the mining boom that transformed this region into what became known as the Silver Valley, a hub of silver, lead, and zinc extraction.
The Bunker Hill Mine was established in the late 19th century, with its claim filed on September 10, 1885, by Phillip O’Rourke. The location was named after the Revolutionary War battle, reflecting the American spirit of discovery and enterprise. A key figure in its early history was Noah S. Kellogg, a prospector who uncovered the rich galena ore vein that would lead to the mine’s establishment. Legend has it that Kellogg’s jackass wandered off and serendipitously discovered the ore, a story that adds a charming bit of local lore to the site’s history.
As the years progressed, the Bunker Hill complex became a center of technological innovation and industrial output. By 1891, the site was connected via a 10,000-foot aerial tramway that linked the mine to the milling facilities in Kellogg. The complex was under the adept management of figures like Frederick Worthen Bradley, who took over in 1893 and introduced new technologies, including the first electric hoist.
However, the prosperity came at a cost. The extensive mining and smelting activities led to significant environmental pollution, impacting the land, air, and waterways of the region. By 1983, the area was designated a Superfund site by the Environmental Protection Agency, marking it for extensive cleanup efforts.
Despite the environmental challenges, the Bunker Hill Zinc Plant’s story is intertwined with the broader narrative of American industrialization. It reflects both the drive for economic progress and the evolving understanding of environmental stewardship. The plant is a testament to the complex legacy of mining in the American West—a tale of ingenuity, ambition, and, ultimately, responsibility.
