) 
! 
CITE MINES. The early occupants of the Potomac region, in 
their search for materials capable of serving them in 
their simple arts, probably discovered and attempted 
to utilize loose masses of the soft and tough stone 
known to us as steatite or soapstone. The progress 
toward its extensive utilization was no doubt very slow, 
and unless previous knowledge of such stone had been 
gained elsewhere, must have continued for centuries. 
Step by step the peculiar qualities and adaptabilities 
of the material were developed and diligent search was 
made for it throughout the highland. When the convenient 
loose masses were exhausted, the rock in place was 
attacked where it outcropped in the stream beds and 
on the hillsides, and partially detached portions were 
pried or broken off: then the process of uncovering 
followed and the quarrying industry was initiated. Sharp 
stones were employed to cut off projecting pieces, and 
finally cutting tools were made and improved, so that 
