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Vintage 1956 Photo Snapshot Alma Lincoln Gold Mine Mill Idaho Springs CO Radon
Up for sale is a fascinating piece of Colorado mining history and mid-century Americana. This is an original, authentic vintage black-and-white tourist snapshot of the historic Alma Lincoln Mine and Mill, once located just west of Idaho Springs, Colorado.The front of the photo features a beautifully framed, sharp view of the massive timber-log processing mill structure built against the mountainside next to Clear Creek—a structure that no longer exists today due to the construction of Interstate 70.The reverse side features an incredible, detailed handwritten ink caption documenting a fascinating 1950s health fad:
"Mine 1956. Famous Radon – Radio active. 12:45 am Sept 17 – 56. Alma Lincoln Mine."HISTORICAL CONTEXT:
After its gold and silver production ceased around 1950, the Alma Lincoln Mine was famously repurposed during the 1950s uranium boom as a "Health Mine." Tourists and patients suffering from arthritis and asthma would pay to sit inside the underground tunnels to breathe in the low-dose radioactive radon gas, which was believed at the time to have therapeutic properties. The caption perfectly captures a visitor documenting their late-night exposure visit!DIMENSIONS & CONDITION:
- Size: Standard vintage snapshot (approx. 3.5" x 4.5") with a classic scalloped border.
- Condition: Excellent vintage condition. The photographic print is crisp with great contrast and sharp focus. The paper is clean with minimal handling wear. (Please review the scans of both the front and back for precise condition details).SHIPPING & HANDLING:
The photograph will be packaged with care, securely and shipped out promptly.Please feel free to send a message if you have any questions. Thanks for looking!
