Abandoned Mine Shaft At Kelly Mine In Kelly, New Mexico

This is a video that we recently shot from a visit to the famous Kelly Mine of Kelly, New Mexico. Kelly is a ghost town with a supposed population of two persons, located just outside of a small town by the name of Magdalena. During the late 1800's, lead was found lying atop the ground in the surrounding mountains. This is what led to the initial mining boom of Kelly which then led to the discovery of Kelly Blue Smithsonite. This type of smithsonite is only found in this specific locality, which then resulted in a second mining boom. This particular mine shaft is almost 1000 feet deep and is connected to about 30 miles of underground tunnels.
In the video it appears that I'm standing right next to the shaft, but I'm standing a body length away with an extender for those wondering. Always be cautious around vertical mine shafts, one false step and you'll fall to your death.
On a lighter note, thanks for watching, commenting, liking, and subscribing! It is much appreciated! Stay safe in your adventures!!!
#abandonedmines #explore #mines #adventure #smithsonite

[@casedoumasr656]

Hello thank you for the history adventure nice head frame and bunker. That would be cool to see whats left down the mine shaft ⛏️thanks for the tag along

[@dmanoutdoorlife]

@casedoumas656 Thanks for the comment, I'm glad you enjoyed! I agree, I'd love to see the bottom of that shaft! I wonder how many bodies are at the bottom and how many disappearances would be solved by looking. Other than that, I bet that mine is like a time capsule, especially since the vertical shaft makes it virtually inaccessible. I'll be uploading more soon as time permits. Thanks again!!

[@dankingjr.2088]

Tall metal tower is a headframe, and you're right about it being a hoist. Several examples of Smithsonite from Kelly are actually in museums. Haven't been there in a few years and it's nice to see it again. Two quick questions: Did you find the mine shaft with the cold air blowing out? When you paid the entry fee, was the person who took your money by chance Jackass Jill? She ran the entry for years. Cool video man.

[@dmanoutdoorlife]

@dankingjr.2088 Thanks for the comment and the information! We were lucky enough to find a few small pieces of smithsonite while we were digging at one of the mine dumps up there. Yes, we did find the adit with the blowing air. The air was warm when we visited as it was quite cold outside. It was really cool with two large chambers. As for the second question: lmao, no I was lucky not to have any encounters with her. Funny you mention her, several other people made note of her online. No, she was long gone. The current owner is Ben Otero, and he is very kind. He runs the shop out of Otero Mineral Shop. I'll be posting many more videos from the area in the coming weeks. Thanks again!!

[@mr.whippleschnitz4185]

I thought this was fenced closed. Kelly mine is private property now.

[@dmanoutdoorlife]

@mr.whippleschnitz4185 Thanks for the comment! You are correct in that the land is private. Mr. Otero of Otero Mineral Shop in Magdalena sells passes for $20 per person. It is completely unguided, but there's not one fence to be seen these days.

[@mr.whippleschnitz4185]

Yeah, I know the folks down at the rock shop. Didnt know they were letting folks back into Kelly. Planning to head to the Graphic soon myself.

[@dmanoutdoorlife]

@mr.whippleschnitz4185 I haven't been to the Nit and North Graphic Mine as of yet. I've spied it plenty from adjacent mountains and extensively on satellite imagery. It's open for business! Visit Otero's shop across the main highway from the Dollar General. The fee is $20 per person, and I'm sure Mr. Otero would appreciate your business. I've spoken with the owner of the Nit and North Graphic, I just haven't made it to her shop yet. She is very kind on the phone, I look forward to touring her mines.