1952 Iron Industry & Mining Film: Iron Country

This film uses the large crowd at the Minnesota state fair to show how many people are affected by Minnesota’s iron ore mining industry. More than one quarter of a million people in Minnesota are directly or indirectly affected by the iron ore mining industry, which has a strong impact on Minnesota’s economy development and its citizen’s daily lives. The film details the concerns of average Minnesotans: for example, many worry that mining is governed by seasonality. But the film assures that stripping of waste materials to get down to ore deposits is done during cold winter months and the waste material above the deposits may be as high as a thirty story building. Another winter mining activity is repairing equipment. Underground mining is also a year round activity not affected by the seasons. A detailed examination of the iron ore mining process helps to make clear the factors of economic development that makes the iron ore mining and creation of iron ore pellets so important. Also included in the film is lots of footage of Hibbing Minnesota, where most of the mines are located. Hibbing was where Bob Dylan grew up, and is a touchstone American mining town. The film asserts that the mining industry in Minnesota has a bright future and has a strong presence. Conservation efforts are being made to preserve the high quality iron ore deposits. New technologies allow mining companies to use lower grade iron ore that was once thought to be of no value. Because of these advances and specializations, the iron ore mining industry will continue to have a positive influence for residents of Minnesota. This quaint film is a nifty piece of Minnesota history.