Iron mining began in Minnesota more than 100 years ago when the first natural, red iron ore was shipped from the Vermilion Range near Tower in 1884. Since that time, Minnesota iron mining has undergone incredible changes. In the mid-1950s, we stopped mining red ore and ultimately invested $4 billion in six mining and processing operations that today provide two-thirds of the ore used to make steel in America.

To learn more about the people who have contributed to this $1.3 billion-a-year industry and their contributions, click on the fact sheets button.