When the Bunker Hill Mine closed down in the mid-1980s, it left an economic void in the Silver Valley. The tides may be turning, however — Colorado-based Galena Mineral Resources Group has signed an option agreement to purchase 100 percent of the mine, which could very well reverse the financial hit residents and businesses took when it closed. With the news of the purchase, long-time Silver Valley residents and business owners are hopeful that the county’s economic slump is easing. “If it’s true,” said Dale Lavigne of Lavigne Drug Group, “my take is that it’s great for the community.” In fact, he said, he’d be elated if it reopened. Based on current metals prices, there’s no doubt in his mind that it’d be successful/Zac Failla & Kelsey Saintz, Shoshone News-Press. More here. (SR file photo of old Bunker Hill smoke stacks)

Question: Do you or your family have a history with Silver Valley mining?