I had occasion to drive up I-70 on Friday. The mill appears to be generally intact: the log structure with the loading chutes is gone. The tailings pile still continues a bit to the east, though. I recall that most of the nasty stuff was contained behind the cribbing, though I don't doubt the tailings have their share of heavy metals.
Though not the subject of this thread, I gave a look at the Stanley and the Hulkill (cause I forget the name Chris schooled us on). Though both structures still stand, I fear they are not long for the world. The Stanley grows more hollow each year and the Hulkill, long painted a bright orange color has weathered to a deep grey, and the timbers appear weak. An excavator was parked next to the Stanley. It is remarkable that both structures have lasted so long with very little maintenance. For a change, Colorado's relatively benign (no hurricanes) weather may have had a role: I am working on a project in New Jersey and sturdy buildings of similar age are disintegrating as the water does not move off the eaves and saturates the walls, causing them to cave in.
Though many of you out there are no doubt incensed that these precious structures are in such a state, save your breath. I suspect they are privately owned, and the Owners may have no interest in making improvements to their property for fear other, far more expensive issues arise. But, if they care, History Colorado has funds available as Como Depot is aware. The Stanley could make a nice brew pub, or distillery, or pot shop. All would make the building much more relevant to those driving by on I-70.
Keith Hayes
Leadville in Sn3
Locked
