Boriana Mine

Immerse yourself in the awe-inspiring beauty of the Mojave Desert as you traverse its rugged terrain on a UTV adventure towards a historic mine. Take time to savor the presence of the desert’s unique wildlife, relish the panoramic views, and indulge in the expansive 360-degree perspectives that unfold around you.

Description: The deposit was known before 1908 and produced little until Harvey Klotsch and his son from Kingman bought it. They operated it as the Yucca Tungsten Mine, increasing production when tungsten prices hit $125 per ton during World War I. From 1915 to 1919, the mine saw one of its primary production periods, and in 1918, it became one of Arizona’s top tungsten producers. It also led production in Arizona from 1933-1937 and was likely the second largest in the USA. It operated again from 1951-1957 and 1979-1980.

From 1933 to 1937, the Boriana Mining and Milling Company, owned by the Sievers family, ran the mine. The mining camp grew into a community, even forming a baseball team that competed with teams from Oatman and Kingman.

In 1937, the Molybdenum Corporation of America took over operations under a lease and bond deal. A fire destroyed the mill shortly after, requiring rebuilding. While constructing the new mill, mining continued, resuming production in 1939. H.L. Vetech managed the operation, introducing advancements like agitation flotation equipment — the Vetech cells. These required minimal power, had low maintenance costs, and didn’t clog on shutdown.

By 1942, without H.L. Vetech, production dropped significantly. The mine struggled to retain skilled workers at wartime wages, leading to further decline. In January 1943, it closed for refurbishment, and the owners sought buyers. By December 1944, they sold off equipment and dismantled the mill, stripping the mine by 1945.

Post-1945 efforts to continue operations at Boriana mine were marginal. Transporting ore long distances without onsite mill operations proved challenging.

In 1987, Mark Chatman’s Wabayuma Wilderness Study deemed the mine uneconomical, with most workings aged, flooded, or gas-contaminated, ending its era as a leading tungsten producer.

The mine reached 1,100 feet deep with 9 levels plus 3 sub-levels and over 15,500 feet of drifts. It yielded 98% of 120,413 short ton units of tungsten (WO3), equating to 2,400,000 pounds of tungsten (WO3). The principal ore shoot on the West lode had been mined to the 7th level by June 15, 1941, spanning 8,700 feet; similarly, an ore shoot on the East lode extended 1,000 to 1,100 feet from above the 3rd level to the 7th level.

What you will see today: Now, old mine structures and concrete foundations remain. Most wooden framing has collapsed, with nails jutting out from timbers. Walking among the ruins is fascinating but requires caution due to the brittle wood and protruding nails. A small spring feeds a pond with goldfish near the mine. Some wooden structures still stand, and large tailings piles dot the area. It seems all mine openings are sealed with dirt, which is likely safer given the mine’s condition. This site offers a glimpse into Arizona’s mining history.

Comments: Always be cautious at old mining sites. Hazards in the ruins could turn a fun day sour. Remember to be safe, pack out what you bring, and preserve the site for others.

Minerals Mined: Tungsten, gold, silver, and copper