THUNDER BAY - The history of mining in Northwestern Ontario is all around the city's north core if a person knows where to look.
For nearly 150 years the industry has been a solid foundation not only for the city's economy but many of Thunder Bay's early buildings.
On Saturday the public can get a walking tour of that history as part of Mining Day, a free event in its second year that will also takeover Marina Park to highlight the past, present and future of mining.
"We're bringing the bush to town," Northwestern Ontario Prospectors Association president Bob Chataway said.
The day, which last year saw around 800 people, will feature interactive displays, speakers, equipment and some hands-on activities like panning for gold, always a huge hit with children.
"There will be some large mining equipment out in the field area for the kids to have a look at (as well)," Chataway said.
Mayor Keith Hobbs, who declared May 31 Mining Day in the city, said it's important to recognize all the work business and organizations have done in the region.
"Its''a huge part of our economy," he said.
For those who can't wait until Saturday, Chataway said to take a look at the back of the old Eaton's building. While not local stone like many other examples on the tour, people will be surprised at what they see.
"There's a lot of beautiful examples of large fossil in the Manitoba sandstone," he said.
