Our Facility

The Free Enterprise Radon Health Mine has a history that dates back to 1924 when it was originally appropriated for the mining of silver and lead ore. In 1949, mining engineer Wade V. Lewis, with two other locators, discovered the presence of radioactivity at the abandoned site. Lease for the Free Enterprise Uranium Mine was acquired and excavation proceeded.

A Los Angeles woman, visiting with her husband in the summer of 1951 for the purpose of stock investment, noticed that her bursitis disappeared after several visits to the underground workings. Relaying the incidence of benefit, word spread and the stampede began. Pain sufferers demanded access even while mining continued. Nearly 1,000 people were permitted to visit for observation purposes only. Reports of pain relief ran so high that the operators were compelled to initiate revision of the mining operation into the health destination that it is today. Lewis managed the health mine for 21 years until his death at the age of 81. His dedication culminated in a discovery that has benefitted generations for over half a century. Management under the ownership of Lewis’ granddaughter Patricia Lewis and her husband, Burdette E. Anderson, continues to this day.

FACILITY

In Montana, at the Free Enterprise Radon Health Mine, radon therapy takes place in the underground “gallery” or at surface in the “radon room” - or a combination of both. The difference is only that which is most comfortable to the individual. Testing confirms radon levels averaging about 1700 pC/l of air - with normal fluctuations ranging from 700 to 2200 pC/l of air. Exposure to radon is perfectly safe at just twice the amount of natural background radiation one might receive on an annual basis.

Visitors “self-treat” via a series of daily visits to the Mine. An average stay includes at least 32 hours over a 10-day stay. Your visit schedule will be determined by factors that may include severity of disease, mobility, energy, level of pain, and time or travel constraints. Shorter stays are allowable. Repeat therapy as needed. Most visitors report positive results that range from immediate to weeks later, lasting months to years.

The underground gallery is 85' below surface and accessed by a well maintained and licensed Otis elevator. Amenities include tables, chairs, and heat lamps over padded benches. Flooring is level and dry. Temperature varies from 56F to 70F. Wear warm, comfortable, casual clothing and footwear. Bring a blanket and/or pillow if you like to sleep. Restrooms are located at surface only. Care givers must be readily available for assistance.

The radon room at surface is an alternative to going underground. Radon-laden air is pumped up from the 105' level of the mine workings, circulated and returned underground.

Pets take therapy at surface in kennels exposed to radon-laden air yet separate from the radon room. Bring a blanket and toy. Pets must be manageable and on leash at all times.