Montana’s mining history helped shape the state it is today. The Philipsburg mining district was especially bustling back in the day (and still is). The Scratch Awl Silver Mine was one of the first mines discovered in the area, and thanks to this drone footage, you can get an up-close-and-personal look at the abandoned remains.

The Scratch Awl was in production by 1875, but by 1907 the workings were inaccessible.
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It reopened in 1917, though, supplying magnesium for the war efforts.

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By 1939, the mine was the most active in the district. But in the 1960s, it shut down abruptly.
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What remains are some structures on the verge of collapse and some old equipment.
While mining is no longer one of the top industries in Montana, at one time, it was absolutely vital to our survival.
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It's a little unnerving to see this footage and know that something so economically strong could be gone so quickly, putting so many people out of work.

The mine is on private property, but thanks to a drone and a few cameras, YouTube user davidegg22 is able to give us a tour.

If you enjoyed this Montana drone footage, check out this gorgeous video of Glacier National Park.

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