As the world moves away from the Industrial Age and deeper into the Information Age, the relics of our former industries can been seen aging and abandoned.  Often, older industrial buildings and sites are so polluted with the materials once used or made there that the locations can’t be used for much else.  Since they can’t be used, they simply sit and gather the layers of time that make them fascinating until they are demolished, repurposed, or completely forgotten about.  These abandoned factories, mills and mines have served their useful lives and now stand silent.

Port Mulgrave Mine, United Kingdom

(images via: Phill D.)

In the late 19th century, Port Mulgrave mine supplied iron ore for a brief time.  The mine’s existence was responsible for the construction of the nearby harbor, which helped transport the ore until the nearby railroad was eventually linked up with the rest of the country.  Today, the Port Mulgrave mine is partially collapsed and none too safe to venture into – but this brave photographer took some incredible pictures out of the deserted tunnels.

Cascade Pass, Washington

(images via: Darren Jacobson)

Cascade Pass is a popular hiking destination in Washington state, and some truly breathtaking views await hikers.  There are some surprises, too, like this abandoned mine nestled in the rocks.

Delco Manufacturing Plant, Rochester, New York

(images via: Industrial New York)

Rochester was once a booming industrial city.  But when the area’s industry began to wane, there were plenty of old factories left hanging around.  The Delco Manufacturing Plant changed hands a few times after its heyday, but still ended up abandoned in the end.  Today, one of the three buildings has burned down and the other two are frequently used for illegal activity.

Millenium Mills, London

(images via: Dereliction)

The last of the remaining major flour mills in London, Spiller’s Millenium Mills is look back into the history of the city.  The building and the land on which it is situated have been the setting for countless movies and television shows.  Developers have been in talks to turn the area into part of a 5,000-home waterfront development project.

Carondelet Coke Plant, St. Louis, Missouri

(images via: Ecology of Absence)

This coke plant in St. Louis wasn’t the type that provides syrupy caffeinated goodness to keep you going through your workday.  The coke produced here was a type of fuel derived from coal.  When the EPA named coke plants among the most carcinogenic types of industries, the plant was closed and abandoned.  A case of unpaid taxes caused the property to revert to the city’s ownership in 1987.  It was only 19 years later that a buyer was found for the 40-acre contaminated property.

Abandoned Paper Mill, Location Unknown

(images via: Maraid)

The most mysterious abandoned places are those that seem to have been abandoned in a hurry.  This paper mill, apparently located somewhere in Britain, was deserted with belongings in lockers and dishes still on the canteen table.  Was it a chemical spill that caused the workers to flee?  Or did the owners simply not care to remove the company’s posessions from the building when they closed up shop for good?

Abandoned Jute Mill, Angus, UK

(images via: 8333696)

This jute mill in Angus was similarly ditched seemingly in mid-shift.  Rolls of jute lay all around and machines remain parked as if their operators just popped out for a cup of tea.  Boots and jackets still adorn the interior.  The only signs that this isn’t a working factory are the mildew, dirt build-up and general decay adorning some parts of the site.