Old Lead Belt
Rich in History and Family‑Friendly Fun
Abundant mineral deposits attracted early settlers and miners to communities in Jefferson, St. Francois and Washington counties that make up Missouri’s Old Lead Belt. In this region, lead occurs naturally, often at the surface, which is why there has been a history of lead mining in this area for more than 300 years.
Doe Run and our predecessors began operating here nearly 160 years ago, and we remain a part of the community today.
Mining in Missouri created jobs and established communities throughout the state. Lead, zinc and other minerals mined in the Old Lead Belt drove the economy in this region for centuries. Watch this historic video by the Bureau of Mines to learn more. Today, our focus is to revitalize the historic mine sites for new purposes.
Known for its mineral rich land, the Old Lead Belt area also is rich in history and family-friendly fun. Tourists come from miles around to explore the Missouri Mines State Historic Site and the beautiful state parks in the area. View Our Community Resource Guide.
Old Lead Belt Restoration
Doe Run has remediated hundreds of acres of land once home to mining or metal operations. Where possible, the remediation is done in a manner so that the land be used for new economic or recreation opportunities. Built on land donated by Doe Run’s predecessor, St. Joe State Park is a popular Missouri state park that includes ATV trails, swimming and camping. The Park Hills Industrial Park was also a remediated and repurposed site and today is home to the Glass Operations of Piramal Glass and corporate headquarters of Lee Mechanical.
St. Francois County Yard Remediation Process
Doe Run is participating in the U.S. EPA-driven remediation of lead contaminated soil in residential yards in St. Francois County. Work is being completed by various parties following the EPA process.
Doe Run Community Involvement
Although there are no longer active mining operations in the Old Lead Belt, mining and Doe Run are part of the region’s fabric. That’s why we continue to look for ways to give back to the community, focusing our investments on education opportunities.
Project Lead the Way
Doe Run donated $23,000 over three years to the Valley R-VI school district for its Project Lead the Way program. The four-year STEM curriculum focuses on project-based learning and prepares students to solve real-world problems in a collaborative environment.
Fall Rocks
Since 2005, Doe Run and Missouri Department of Natural Resources have co-hosted Fall Rocks, a family-friendly minerals education event at the Missouri Mines State Historic Site museum in Park Hills.
Celtic Days
Doe Run proudly sponsors the annual Parkland Celtic Festival, in Park Hills. The event features traditional Irish and Scottish Dance, food, music, unique vendors, and a parade celebrating Celtic culture.