Mrs. Robert K. Reid

Wife had to use husband's name for her mine claim

Robert K. Reid's wife' discovery of silver ore in 1863 in Bingham Canyon, Utah, was not only groundbreaking for its time but also emblematic of the early mining spirit of the American West. Her involvement with the silver vein she uncovered showcases a blend of initiative, resourcefulness, and direct engagement in the male-dominated field of mining.

The Discovery

Mrs. Reid, accompanying a group on a picnic and grouse hunt led by Captain Arthur Heitz near Camp Douglas, stumbled upon a vein of silver ore adjacent to the Jordan Claim. The vein was particularly noteworthy because it was among the first significant finds in the Bingham Canyon area, which later became one of the richest mining districts in the United States. At a time when women were rarely credited for their roles in mining ventures, Mrs. Reid not only identified the potential of the silver vein but also took the initiative to act upon her discovery.

Filing the Claim

Mrs. Reid filed a mining claim for the vein in her own name, an act that was highly unusual for a woman during that era. By doing so, she asserted her right to the find and secured legal recognition for her discovery. This action positioned her as one of the few women in Utah's early mining history to directly participate in and benefit from mining activities. The act of filing a claim required not only courage but also a clear understanding of the legal and technical processes involved, highlighting her proactive role.

Organizational Role

Mrs. Reid was involved in the organization of the West Mountain Quartz Mining District, Utah's first mining district. This district was established to provide a legal framework for mining activities in the region, including the adjudication of claims and the enforcement of mining laws. Her presence and participation in the meeting to establish the district reflect her significant contribution to the formal development of mining operations in the area.

Impact of the Discovery

The silver vein uncovered by Mrs. Reid was part of the larger mineral wealth that later defined Bingham Canyon. While the initial discovery focused on silver, subsequent mining efforts revealed extensive deposits of copper, gold, and other valuable minerals, transforming the area into one of the most important mining sites in the world. Although her direct involvement in the mining and processing of the ore is not well-documented, her role in the initial discovery and legal claim laid the groundwork for future exploitation of the region's resources.

Significance

Mrs. Reid's involvement with the silver she uncovered was not merely incidental; it represented a rare instance of a woman directly shaping the mining history of the American West. Her actions paved the way for the recognition of women's contributions to the field and underscored the vital role women could play in prospecting and mining endeavors, even in a highly patriarchal society.

Her discovery and subsequent actions remain a notable chapter in the history of Bingham Canyon and a testament to the often-overlooked role of women in pioneering industries.