Julien Dubuque and the Mines of Spain

Video #1 of 1 (8/8/2024):
Welcome back to the Mines of Spain! After eight months, it was worth making a return visit. This is one of the few gems that has one question whether they are truly in Iowa. Horseshoe bluff is regarded for their dolostone bluffs that date clear back to the Ordovician period according to geologists. Horseshoe bluff was formerly a quarry, which would eventually meet with the Mississippi River.
The Mines of Spain gets its name from the fact that in the late 18th century, the country of Spain owned some of the land. Julien Dubuque, a French-Canadian, was one of the first European settlers in the area. Julien was given permission by the governor of Spain at the time to "mine" the lands for lead/Galena as a useful resource. Julien also shared good relations with the Mesquakie people, which made the operation and partnership possible.
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