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The San Xavier Mine is operated by the Department of Mining and Geological Engineering. This Mining Laboratory is a unique teaching and research facility as it is the only mining laboratory with a working vertical shaft in the U.S. It is also used as a training resource by federal and state agencies as well as organizations devoted to underground tunnel safety and mine rescue. Tours and community activities are also conducted to educate the general public on the importance of the mineral and construction industries.
The San Xavier (SX) Mining Laboratory is located in the Pima Mining District, approximately 23 miles south of Tucson, Arizona. The facility is part of what once was part of the largest underground mine in the area. Founded in 1880 by the San Xavier Miing and Smelting Company, the mine was operated continuously until 1918 producing a base metal concentrate.
In 1943, Eagle-Picher Mining Company purchased the property and placed it into production. The company employed over 300 miners until operations were curtailed in 1952 due to low metal prices.
Beginning in 1958, the mine workings surrounding the Number 6 Shaft were leased to the University of Arizona, College of Mines, for educational purposes. In 1975, the Anamax Mining Company, then owner of the mine, donated the Number 6 Shaft and related workings to the University. The grant included two patented lode claims totaling 35 acres.
Since 1975, the Department of Mining and Geological Engineering has constructed two shop buildings and a head frame as part of the surface plant facilities. The mine has three underground levels, two of which are serviced by the primary shaft. Development work has begun on a new decline for rubber tired equipment that will eventually access all three levels.
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