Let’s explore a historic treasure thriving as a natural oasis in the heart of the Village of Midlothian. It’s the Mid-Lothian Mines Park.
This site was one of the first major industrial sites in the United States and became a 44-acre preserve in 2004 when Mid-Lothian Mines Park opened.
Park Features
The park features a serene pond, two observation decks, a 450-seat amphitheater, five trails, one of the largest headstock reproductions, and stunning scenery all around.
The Mid-Lothian Mines Park is located in the heart of Midlothian’s coal mining past and is encompassed by the Richmond Coal Basin. Originally, this site was one of the many mining operations in Chesterfield and represents the first attempt at commercial coal mining in North America. Mining in the Midlothian area from these mines fired the furnaces at Tredegar Iron Works in Richmond, the main supplier of artillery and iron for the Confederacy during the American Civil War.
The Mid-Lothian Mines probably gave the village of Midlothian its name.
One of the nice things about this park is while today visitors can come for recreational activities you can also stop at many of the historic markers and sites around the park to learn more about the history of mining in Chesterfield. There are also remaining ruins from the mining industry in the park.Â
Not only do runners and families enjoy the park but it is a fan favorite of local photographers as well to capture beautiful pictures among the scenery and rock formations. Make sure to discover the rich past and tranquil scenic beauty amid Midlothian at the Mid-Lothian Mines Park.
I’m Anita L Williamson, Associate Broker with James River Realty Group. Click the following button to stay up to date on all things Central Virginia. If you want to buy or sell real estate in the Central Virginia area I would love to be your real estate resource of choice. Until next time, keep enjoying all Central Virginia has to offer!
