"The Open Cut" is an easily viewable example of a surface mine in the Black Hills. It was the original site of the Homestake gold mine, which, during its lifespan, operated as the most productive gold mine in North America. This clip from the Homestake Mining Company gives the history of The Open Cut.
OTHER MEDIA
For Teachers: Activity idea is available at PBS Learning Media.
Learn more about the history of mining in South Dakota in this "Dakota Pathways" video.
Homestake Mine - Mining Gold in the 1930s
The Lead Subsidence
Homestake Mine - Building the Yates Headframe