Widow Jane Mine

Widow Jane Mine is a former cement mine located west of Rosendale, New York. The mine was active from 1825 to 1970 and is now part of the Snyder Estate Natural Cement Historic District. Dolomite extracted from the mine was used to make Rosendale cement which was widely used in the 19th century, contributing to the base of the Statue of Liberty among other structures. Since the closure of Widow Jane Mine in 1970, the unique acoustics of its chambers have led to its use as a performance venue. The Century House Historical Society, which oversees the property, hosts a summer concert series in the mine. An annual Subterranean Poetry Festival is held there as well. It has been used as a recording studio, a venue for plays, and an art exhibition space. 80% of the mine is underwater.