History of the University Mine

The folks at Coleman Township asked up to prepare a few words about the history of the mine structure that stands at the corner of Highway 11 and 11B. In 2006, the headframe was relocated from the shore of Giroux Lake, almost 7.0km due east and has since been a landmark for visitors and locals alike, indicating, “Turn here for the Best Ol’ Town you know!”

The story of the University Mine property is typical of most mines in the silver mining camp. After the initial discovery and staking rush in 1903 near Cobalt Lake, prospectors scoured the neighbouring hills. The region south, around Giroux and Kerr Lakes, was an area so rich in silver, the Temiskaming and Northern Ontario Railway later invested in a spur line to ship the silver ore for processing.

In June, 1904, George Glendinning, William J. Blair, and Hugh L. Kerr staked the “Giroux Lake” property, later renamed for their association with the School of Practical Science at the University of Toronto.  

As market prices of silver ebbed and flowed, so did the output of a mine. Likewise, new development and refining practices increased output and profits. While not one of the big producers, the University made a respectable contribution to shareholders’ purses.

The site changed hands several times since the discovery. In 1905, the owners of the more well-known Larose Mine purchased a controlling interest for a remarkable million dollars. During a second silver rush in the mid-1950s’, Silver Miller Mines acquired the land, and a decade later, Hiho Silver Mines, a wholly-owned subsidiary of the Glen Lake Silver Mines worked the property to 1963.

Silver Shield Mines, Canadaka Mines Limited, and Agnico Eagle were all subsequent owners until in 1998, Sabin Metal Corporation (SMC) purchased the property, and are the current owners.