Milam Asbestos Mine The Milam Asbestos Mine in Sabine County, East Texas was one of the few asbestos mining operations in the state. The mine extracted chrysotile asbestos from serpentine rock deposits for use in industrial and construction applications.
Last verified: 2026-03-09Asbestos mining at Milam began in the early 20th century, targeting chrysotile deposits in the serpentine formations of East Texas. Production peaked during the 1940s and 1950s when wartime and postwar demand for asbestos products was high. The mine closed in the mid-1960s as richer deposits elsewhere and early health concerns reduced its economic viability. The site remains a legacy contamination concern.
Open-pit mining and on-site crushing released chrysotile fibers into the air in the rural East Texas community. Workers operated without respiratory protection during most of the mine's productive years. Serpentine waste rock was used locally for road base and fill, spreading contaminated material into the surrounding area.
The following job categories at Milam Asbestos Mine had the highest risk of asbestos exposure:
Former mine workers face elevated risk of mesothelioma, lung cancer, and asbestosis. The rural setting and small workforce meant many cases went undiagnosed or were attributed to other causes. Medical literature documents asbestos-related disease in workers from even small mining operations like Milam.
Health information is based on established medical research on asbestos exposure. Asbestos is classified as a known human carcinogen by the National Cancer Institute, the Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry, and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. Consult a physician for medical advice specific to your situation.
Workers exposed to asbestos at Milam Asbestos Mine may be entitled to compensation through asbestos trust funds, personal injury lawsuits, or veterans benefits. Mesothelioma patients and their families have recovered billions in compensation from companies that manufactured or used asbestos products.
Find Out If You QualifyWorkers who were employed at Milam Asbestos Mine between 1940s–1960s may have been exposed to asbestos-containing materials. If you've been diagnosed with mesothelioma, lung cancer, or asbestosis, you may have legal options including trust fund claims and lawsuits.
If you were exposed to asbestos at Milam Asbestos Mine and have been diagnosed with mesothelioma, these specialized treatment centers in Texas may be able to help.
Yes. While Texas is not widely known for asbestos mining, small-scale chrysotile operations existed in East Texas, including the Milam mine in Sabine County. The serpentine rock formations there contain naturally occurring asbestos.
Serpentine rock containing chrysotile asbestos remains at and around the former mine site. Disturbing the soil or rock can release asbestos fibers. Caution is advised in the area, particularly during construction or land-clearing activities.
Former workers or their families may be eligible for compensation through asbestos lawsuits. Texas has specific laws governing asbestos claims, and an experienced mesothelioma attorney can evaluate your case and identify all responsible parties.
If you or a loved one worked at Milam Asbestos Mine and have been diagnosed with mesothelioma, lung cancer, or asbestosis, our attorneys can help you explore your legal options. There is no cost, no pressure, and no obligation.
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