Oregon Quicksilver | Exploring the abandoned mines & ghost towns of Central Oregon

In this adventure, we set out into the backcountry of Central Oregon to explore the abandoned mines and ghost towns left behind by the state’s once-thriving cinnabar industry. Cinnabar, an ore which can be processed into mercury (called "quicksilver" in that era), was once a major part of Oregon’s economy through the 18th and 19th centuries due to mercury’s importance in the manufacturing of certain weapons which were important during both World Wars, as well as its use in the amalgamation of gold. However, the industry’s presence on the landscape was to be short-lived, as changing economies made the profitability of such mining fall through. Today, all that remains of the mines and processing buildings are decaying wooden shacks, collapsed shafts, and cement monoliths. In this documentary, we’ll visit some of the region’s most impressive ghost towns and learn about the history and technology that went into the Oregon cinnabar industry. With a few pleasant detours, lots of camping, laughs, and gorgeous locales, it’s an adventure sure to excite anyone interested in the backcountry of the Wild West.

Check out our other Oregon exploration videos:
   • Oregon Exploration Adventures  

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