This documentary provides a detailed look at silver mining in the Cobalt, Ontario area. The work of an underground miner is shown in some detail. The film captures some of the environmental impact that mining had on the area. The inclusion of the value of what is mined reflects the enormous wealth that was extracted from this region. Northern Ontario was the location of extensive mining during this time. Fortunes were made as the business class raved about the fortunes that were made.

“Silver Mining in Ontario”, 1919, film, 9 minutes 24 seconds, Graphic Consultants Collection, 1972-0105, item number ISN 185162, Library and Archives Canada.

Film editing by David Sobel. Music by Allen Booth

Further Discussion

Baldwin, Douglas O., and David F. Duke. "‘A Grey Wee Town’: An Environmental History of Early Silver Mining at Cobalt, Ontario." Urban History Review / Revue d’histoire Urbaine, vol. 34, no. 1, 2005, pp. 71–87.

Baldwin, Doug. "A Study in Social Control: The Life of the Silver Miner in Northern Ontario." Labour/Le Travail, vol. 2, Jan. 1977, pp. 79-106.