The mining dream
TThe first sign of attempts to mine iron and tin ore date back to the 14th century, but it wasn't until 1807 that the 'mining dream' really began. Statements exist which vouch for the presence of copper, silver, lead and gold.
The mines were run by a succession of owners and iron was mined poorly and dangerously up until 1853. It was whilst searching for gold that Jacques Balmat who was the first to conquer the Mont Blanc was killed at the age of 72 in the Mont-Ruan area.
If you would like to learn more on this subject, a booklet entitled 'Le Rêve Minier' can be found at the Maison de la Réserve Naturelle. This very comprehensive booklet will help give you a good understanding of this area of the history of Sixt.
Text Claude Castor
Edité par l'Association des Amis de la Réserve Naturelle de Sixt
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