Copper Mine Point National Park

This prominent and unique landmark dominates Mine Hill, precariously perched upon the cliffs of Virgin Gorda’s southeastern tip. Numerous granite rock outcroppings surround the Copper Mine Point ruins with additional deposits of quartz, feldspars, tin, copper, and other minerals.

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This abandoned mine played an important role in the history of Virgin Gorda. Evidence suggests that Spaniards passing through the Virgin Islands were the first Europeans to mine copper here in the early sixteenth century. Following a decline in copper deposits in Cornwall, England, during the early nineteenth century, Cornish miners migrated to the Virgin Islands and built the existing structure which stands in ruins today. Following a period of profitability, the mine closed in 1865, due to escalating expenses, low market prices, and increasing local taxation.

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There were approximately 130 Cornish labourers and their families living on Virgin Gorda during this period although the whereabout of their settlement remains unknown. Other extant structures include the engine house, boiler remains and chimney, mine shafts, cistern and water catchment platform, all of which are scattered throughout the park.

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Restoration work began on the engine house and chimney in 1998 to stabilise the ruins with the assistance of experts from Cornwall, England, where many similar mines have been rehabilitated for display.

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Mine Hill is also a habitat for the White-tailed tropicbirds (Phaethon lepturus) which nest in the rocky cliff crevices by the sea close to the southeastern corner of the Engine House. Departing from their seaside nests, they dive from dramatic heights to feed on marine species, such as squid.