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Cordova Mines

Out of all the Hastings gold rush communities, Cordova Mines was probably the most well known and successful. Cordova Mines operated for over 60 years, producing both silver and gold. Gold production was by far the main commodity and more than 22,000 oz. were produced over a 50 year period.

The history of Cordova Mines started in the mid 1860s when a young prospector, named Marcus Powell, discovered a cave where gold appeared to be gleaming from the walls. Once word got out the area, not surprisingly, boomed overnight. The boom quickly turned to bust when the gold was found to be difficult to mine. However the world wasn't ready to give up on Cordova Mines quite yet.

By 1880 David Vansickle had opened a post office and other businesses began to move in. Improved technology had slowly led to major improvements in mining production and by the time the 1890s arrived the mines were in full operation. The Belmont mine was easily the most lucrative, accounting for most of the output. Originally known as Warriston, the village's name was changed to Cordova in 1900.

The Belmont Mine was discovered in 1891 by H. Strickland and then sold to A. W. Carcallen of Marmora. In 1897, the mine was sold again to a British company, the Cordova Exploration Company, who knew just what to do with it. They quickly added a 10 stamp mill, air compressor and began operations.

Cordova Explorations was pleased with the output and quality of the ore and by 1900 they were ready to expand further. They constructed a larger plant and an 80 stamp mill, 175 X 90 feet and 55 feet high. The mill was described as being neatly finished, painted and well lighted. It was opened in 1901.

Cordova remained a busy place until the 1940s when all the mines shut down. Most of the mine buildings were removed and the businesses slowly trickled away. The closing of Cordova Mines signaled the end of the golden age of mining in Hastings County.

Today Cordova remains a small backwater village. Although many of the original buildings are gone, the village continues to support a small population. One of the general stores and a liquor store remain open. This attractive little community enjoys a boost from seasonal residents during the summer.