Meramec Caverns
Meramec Caverns is a 26 mile cavern system in the Ozarks of Missouri, USA. It was formed from large limestone deposits over millions of years. Pre-Columbian Native American artifacts have been found in the caverns. Currently the caverns are a tourist attraction, with billboards along Interstate 44.
History
The Caverns have existed from the past 400 million years, slowly forming through deposits of limestone. Centuries ago, Native Americans used the cavern system for shelter. During the 1700's, the cave was used for extracting saltpeter for the manufacture of gunpowder. In the Civil War era, the Union Army used the caves as a saltpeter plant, but was destroyed by Confederate soldiers, namely Jesse James. The duo later used the caves as a hideout. In 1933, the extended cave system was discovered, revealing the present 26 miles, and was introduced to the public as a tourist attraction in 1935.
Noted attractions
Wine Room
The Meramec Caverns has a "W(h)ine Room," so called because of the grape-like formations that are visible in the cave. Also, the room is accessible only after climbing numerous stairs and thus receives many whines from visitors.
"Greatest Show Under the Earth"
The Cavern also contains a massive wall, one that has formed during the past 70 million years, which is used for displaying the spectacular light and sound show dubbed "Greatest Show Under the Earth".
"Hollywood"
A room within the cavern was used for Hollywood productions, most notable, The Adventures of Tom Sawyer. In the particular movie, the site was utilized as the cave system where Tom Sawyer and Huckleberry Finn find the hidden gold.
Mirror Room
The Mirror Room is a room within the cavern that contains a stream of water about 1.5 ft deep. However, when a series of lights are turned on, the depth of the water is perceived by many to be as great as 50ft.
Ballroom
The Ballroom is a room in the cavern system that was used in earlier times as a room for square dances and other community events. It is now one of the first stops on the tour and is used for a few annual concerts.