National Women’s History Month is a perfect time to celebrate the women who for decades played major roles in Minnesota’s mining history and communities.
With many Iron Range men serving in World War II, women went to work in Iron Range mines.
Some were welders. Others loaded cars with iron ore. And others labored in the mine pits and processing plants, performing a variety of jobs.
In 1943 and 1944, with work from many women, Iron Range mines produced nearly 70 million tons of iron ore per year to help fuel the war effort.
Today, women continue to help make Minnesota the largest iron ore producer in the United States.
Some work in the mine pits. Some in operations and maintenance. Some in key environmental and engineering roles. And some in administration and iron mining organization representation.
Women in northeastern Minnesota have historically also held prominent positions in the public sector, such as in state government, as mayors, city councilors, on local boards, and in leadership of local companies.
March is National Women’s History Month.
This year’s theme is honoring women who have shaped America’s history and its future through their public service and government leadership.
Thank you women of northeastern Minnesota for your work within our communities, companies and organizations.
