The Doe Run Company (Doe Run) and the Viburnum community will commemorate the rich mining history of southeast Missouri at the 37th Annual Old Miners’ Days festival Oct. 6-7. The event will include two fun-filled days of entertainment for all ages, including free tours of Doe Run’s Buick Mine from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Saturday. Festivities will conclude with a spectacular fireworks display at the Airport Strip.
“Visiting underground mines is a rare opportunity for those outside the industry,” said Scott Miettinen, mine operations manager. “Even former miners may be intrigued to learn about the technological advancements that have transformed the tools and machinery used in modern-day mining operations. That is why Old Miners’ Days is such a unique event: to witness firsthand the intricate workings of a mine and the multitude of jobs and roles involved.”
Visitors ages 12 and older are invited to explore a fully functioning mine that extends over 1,250 feet below ground by signing up for the experience at the Doe Run table at the main event site. The underground mine boasts spacious roadways that can accommodate a range of heavy machinery, from haul trucks to loaders. Visitors can also observe the maintenance shop and rock pillars filled with valuable ore. Free bus transportation will be provided to transport guests to and from the Buick mine site, which is only a short drive from the Viburnum Shopping Center.
Old Miners' Days is a festivity that honors the globally recognized mining district of Viburnum. Individuals and families alike will enjoy a diverse range of entertainment such as a grand parade, a car show, musical performances, children's games, and food booths. All events will take place at the Viburnum Shopping Center parking lot, which is located next to Viburnum High School.
Based in St. Louis, The Doe Run Company is a privately held natural resources company providing vital minerals and metals to the global market. Dedicated to environmentally responsible mineral and metal production, Doe Run operates mines located in southeast Missouri from where it produces lead, zinc and copper concentrates. Doe Run also operates one of the world’s largest, single-site lead recycling centers, located in Boss. Company mineral and metal resources contain lead, zinc, copper, cobalt, nickel, tin and antimony – all vital metals to support a more sustainable energy future. Doe Run has additional operations in Washington and Arizona.
