I would think most locals know  the history of the mine(s) and...

I would think most locals know  the history of the mine(s) and would clearly understand why Kalenn and others were looking at something they themselves ie the locals, would certainly not consider to be "a bunch of rocks"! I assume you are being facetious because the locals have been waiting, waiting for their local mighty resource to be developed. They know  that MYL is including them in the benefits of its development and that is being confirmed to us by Kalenn's visit.Cheers