1962 Map of Aurora

About this map

Large-scale industrial mining and processing dominate the Mesabi Range landscape in this mid-century survey. Massive operations like the Erie Mine No 1 Pit and the Taconite Processing Plant define the terrain, carved by extensive rail networks including the Duluth Missabe and Iron Range Railroad Company. These extraction sites contrast with the planned residential layouts of Aurora and the newer development of Hoyt Lakes, which is shown bordering the Superior National Forest. Water management is central to the era's local industry, evidenced by the vast Tailings Pond north of town and the various pumping stations around Colby Lake and Whitewater Lake. Smaller mining landmarks such as the St James Mine and Knox Mine appear alongside community anchors like the Keefe Sch and Forest Hill Cemetery, providing a comprehensive look at an Iron Range company town ecosystem.