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Tip Top Arizona
Founded in 1876, Tip Top Arizona is a old Silver Mining town and ghost town located in Yavapai County, Arizona. The town site is located west of Black Canyon City, in the southern foothills of the Bradshaw Mountains.
In the late 1870s, gold and silver were discovered in the Bradshaw Mountains, attracting prospectors and miners seeking their fortune. In 1876, the Tip Top Mining District was established by two men, Jack Moore and Bill Corning, and the town of Tip Top sprung up around it. Initially, nearby Gillett served as the milling town.
The district quickly gained a reputation for its rich ore deposits and attracted significant investment and development. The first mining claims were staked, and a stamp mill was constructed to process the ores. With the arrival of the railroad in nearby Phoenix, Tip Top saw an influx of miners, merchants, and entrepreneurs, leading to its rapid growth. A Post Office is established on August 12, 1880
During the boom times, Tip Top boasted six saloons, a brewery, two restaurants, a Chinese laundry, a feed yard, a blacksmith shop, a shoe store, and many residences. The Post Office is closed February 14, 1895.
During is heyday, the silver mines of Tip Top produced over $4,000,000 from its ore deposits.
Town Summary
| Name | Tip Top, Arizona |
| Location | Yavapai County, Arizona |
| Latitude, Longitude | 34.0508662, -112.2468296 |
| Elevation | 765 meters / 2510 feet |
| GNIS | 1669455 |
| Population | 1200 |
| Post Office | August 12, 1880 – February 14, 1895 |
Trail Map
According to Dangerous Roads the trail into Tip Top Arizona is closed and and the area is undergoing land changes. Other resources state that the road was closed in 2009.
References
Ely Forging The Link – Nevada State Historic Marker
The “Forging the Link” historical marker in Ely, Nevada, encapsulates the story of a town that became a vital hub in the American West due to its strategic location and economic contributions. The marker, part of Nevada’s historical marker program overseen by the State Historic Preservation Office (SHPO), commemorates Ely’s role in connecting the region through mining, transportation, and community development.
Early Exploration and Mapping (1859)
The story of Ely begins with its placement on the map by James H. Simpson during his 1859 exploration of the Great Basin. As a U.S. Army officer, Simpson conducted surveys to identify potential routes for communication and travel across the vast, arid region. His work highlighted Ely’s strategic position, laying the groundwork for its future development as a regional center. This initial mapping was critical, as it introduced Ely to the broader narrative of westward expansion and connectivity in the United States.
Mining Boom and Economic Growth (1860s–1890s)
In the 1860s, the discovery of silver and gold deposits in the nearby Robinson Mining District spurred interest in the area. These discoveries attracted prospectors and settlers, transforming Ely into a burgeoning hub. By 1887, Ely had grown sufficiently to become the county seat of White Pine County, solidifying its administrative importance. The real economic surge came in the early 1890s with the discovery of significant copper deposits. Copper mining became the backbone of Ely’s economy, drawing investment and labor to the region and necessitating infrastructure to support the industry.
The Nevada Northern Railway (1900s)
A pivotal development in Ely’s history was the establishment of the Nevada Northern Railway, headquartered in East Ely. Completed in the early 20th century, this 150-mile railway connected Ely’s mines in Ruth to a smelter in McGill and linked the town to the transcontinental railroad to the north. The railway was instrumental in transporting copper ore and other goods, effectively “forging the link” between Ely and national markets. This connectivity not only boosted Ely’s economy but also positioned it as a critical node in the supply chain of the American West, facilitating trade and communication across vast distances.
The Lincoln Highway and Road Networks (1913–1922)
Ely’s role as a transportation hub was further cemented in 1913 when the transcontinental Lincoln Highway, one of America’s first coast-to-coast automobile routes, was routed through the town. Although the road was not paved until 1922, its inclusion of Ely underscored the town’s importance as a stopping point for travelers crossing the Great Basin. By the late 19th century, Ely was already connected by a network of wagon roads, but the Lincoln Highway elevated its status. Additionally, two other major roadways—U.S. Route 6 (designated in 1937, formerly the Midland Trail) and U.S. Route 93—converged at Ely, making it a crossroads for travelers moving between Canada, southern California, and beyond. With over 2,000 residents by the early 20th century, Ely offered essential services, making it an ideal stop for weary travelers.
The Historical Marker’s Creation
The “Forging the Link” marker, erected by the Nevada State Historic Preservation Office, was designed to capture Ely’s multifaceted role in connecting the Great Basin through exploration, mining, and transportation. While the exact date of the marker’s installation is not specified in available records, it is part of a broader initiative to document Nevada’s history through physical markers. The marker’s title, “Forging the Link,” reflects Ely’s historical significance as a connector—geographically, economically, and socially—in a region characterized by its isolation.
The marker likely emerged from a collaborative effort involving local historians, community members, and the SHPO, which oversees Nevada’s historical marker program. Such markers are typically proposed by local groups or agencies, such as the Bureau of Land Management’s Ely District, to highlight significant historical narratives. The content of the marker emphasizes Simpson’s exploration, the mining boom, the Nevada Northern Railway, and the Lincoln Highway, weaving together the threads of Ely’s development into a cohesive story of regional importance.
Significance and Legacy
The “Forging the Link” marker serves as both an educational tool and a point of pride for Ely’s residents. It highlights the town’s resilience and adaptability, from its origins as a mapped point in the Great Basin to its growth into a mining and transportation hub. The marker also underscores Ely’s enduring role as a service center for travelers, a legacy that continues with its position at the intersection of major highways. For visitors, the marker offers a glimpse into the challenges and triumphs of life in the American West, particularly in a region as remote as White Pine County.
Today, the marker stands as a testament to Ely’s historical contributions and its ongoing relevance. It invites reflection on how infrastructure and economic activity can transform a small town into a vital link in a larger network, a theme that resonates with Nevada’s broader history of connectivity and development.
James H. Simpson put the future site of Ely on the map during his 1859 exploration through the Great Basin. In the 1860s, silver and gold deposits were discovered nearby in what became the Robinson Mining District. Ely developed as a regional center, becoming the White Pine County seat in 1887. The area grew dramatically in the early 1890s with major copper discoveries. The Nevada Northern Railway, headquartered in East Ely, carried ore from the mines in Ruth to the McGill smelter, as well as connecting Ely to the world on its 150 mile route north to the transcontinental railroad.
The towns of eastern Nevada were joined during the late nineteenth century by a network of wagon roads. In 1913, the road through Ely was incorporated into the transcontinental Lincoln Highway, though it was not paved until 1922. Ely had over 2,000 residents and offered many services, making it an excellent stopping place on the long road across the Great Basin. When the copper industry declined after World War I, the struggling town turned to travelers for income.
The Lincoln Highway was designated U.S. 50 in 1926. By mid-century the popularity of the Victory Highway, now Interstate 80, reduced U.S. 50 to the status of “The Loneliest Road in America.”
In addition to the Lincoln Highway, two other major national roadways converge at Ely. The Midland trail, designated Route 6 in 1937, was an early coast to coast automobile road that also connected Ely to Tonopah and southern California. U.S 93, which passes north-south through Ely takes travelers from Canada almost to the Mexican border.
STATE OF NEVADA HISTORIC PRESERVATION OFFICE
AT&T
Land Services, Inc.
MACTEC Engineering and Consulting, Inc.
Ely Renaissance Society
Bureau of Land Management, Ely District
Nevada State Historic Marker 269 Map
Nevada State Historic Marker Summary
| Name | Ely Forging The Link |
| Location | Ely, White Pine County, Nevada |
| Latitude, Longitude | 39.2488, -114.8902 |
| Nevada State Historic Marker | 269 |
Fort Mohave
Fort Mohave is a historic settlement located in the southwestern region of Mohave county, Arizona, United States. Nestled along the banks of the Colorado River near Beale’s Crossing, it has played a significant role in the development and growth of the American West. Over the centuries, this area has witnessed the presence of various indigenous tribes, Spanish explorers, American pioneers, and military forces, each leaving their mark on the region’s rich history.
The history of Fort Mohave dates back thousands of years, with evidence of human habitation found in archaeological sites within the surrounding area. The Mojave people, from whom the fort derived its name, were one of the prominent Native American tribes in the region. They lived along the Colorado River, engaging in agriculture, hunting, and trade with other indigenous groups.
The first recorded European contact in the area occurred in the 16th century when Spanish explorers, including Melchor Díaz and Francisco Garcés, ventured into present-day Arizona. They encountered the Mojave people and established a limited presence in the region through the establishment of missions and trade routes. However, it wasn’t until the early 19th century that significant European-American exploration and settlement occurred.
In 1826, trapper and explorer Jedediah Smith traversed the Colorado River, reaching the vicinity of Fort Mohave. His expedition paved the way for subsequent fur trappers and traders who ventured into the area in search of beaver pelts and new trade opportunities. This influx of fur trappers and mountain men led to increased interaction between Native American tribes and Euro-Americans, often resulting in conflicts and tensions.
The establishment of Fort Mohave came about as a direct response to these conflicts. In 1858, the U.S. Army constructed the fort on the east bank of the Colorado River, near the confluence of the Mohave and Hardy rivers. Initially known as Camp Colorado, its primary purpose was to protect American settlers and travelers on their journey to the California gold fields during the height of the Gold Rush.
Fort Mohave was strategically positioned along the major transportation route that linked the Atlantic and Pacific coasts, known as the Mojave Road. It served as a critical outpost for the U.S. Army during the American Civil War, as troops were deployed to protect the mail and telegraph lines and maintain control over the region.
The fort played a significant role in the military campaigns against Native American tribes, particularly the Mojave, Chemehuevi, and Navajo people, who were resisting the encroachment of settlers on their traditional lands. Numerous skirmishes and battles occurred in the area as tensions escalated between Native Americans and the expanding American population.
Following the conclusion of the Civil War, the fort gradually lost its military significance. In 1890, it was officially decommissioned, and the remaining structures were abandoned. However, the establishment of the Mohave Valley Irrigation Project in the early 20th century sparked a renewed interest in the region.
The irrigation project brought water to the arid lands surrounding Fort Mohave, facilitating the cultivation of crops and the establishment of farming communities. This development, coupled with the construction of the Davis Dam in the 1950s, which created Lake Mohave, transformed the economy and landscape of the area. The lake provided recreational opportunities, attracting tourists and supporting the growth of the local tourism industry.
The region continues to be influenced by its proximity to the Colorado River, offering a range of water-based activities such as boating, fishing, and water sports. The Fort Mojave Indian Reservation, located nearby, serves as a reminder of the area’s rich Native American heritage and provides a cultural center for the Mojave, Chemehuevi, and Navajo tribes.
Fort Mohave Trail Map
References
John Wesley Powell
John Wesley Powell, a remarkable American explorer, geologist, and ethnologist, was born on March 24, 1834, in Mount Morris, New York. His expeditions through the uncharted territories of the American West not only added to scientific knowledge but also provided invaluable insights into the land’s geological and cultural diversity. Powell’s legacy as a pioneer of exploration and his tireless efforts in promoting conservation measures have left an indelible mark on American history.
Early Life and Education
Powell grew up in rural New York, where his love for nature and the outdoors was nurtured from an early age. Although he lost his right arm in a childhood accident, Powell’s determination and thirst for adventure were undeterred. He developed a keen interest in natural sciences and geography and pursued higher education at Illinois College and later at Oberlin College, where he focused on geology.
Grand Canyon Expeditions
Powell’s most famous and daring expedition was his 1869 journey down the Colorado River, known as the Powell Geographic Expedition. With a team of nine men, Powell set out to explore the largely uncharted canyons and rapids of the Colorado River and gather valuable scientific data. The expedition faced numerous hardships, including treacherous rapids, scarce food supplies, and hostile encounters with Native American tribes. Miraculously, Powell and his crew successfully navigated the treacherous river and completed the journey, providing unprecedented knowledge of the Grand Canyon and its geological formations.
Powell’s subsequent expeditions further solidified his reputation as a fearless explorer. He embarked on multiple journeys across the American West, including explorations of the Green and Colorado Rivers, the Rocky Mountains, and the Uinta Mountains. Powell’s meticulous record-keeping and scientific observations greatly expanded the understanding of the region’s geology, hydrology, and ethnography.
Scientific Contributions
Powell’s expeditions were not merely adventurous endeavors but also scientific ventures aimed at advancing knowledge in various fields. He published numerous papers and reports detailing his findings, including “Exploration of the Colorado River of the West and its Tributaries” and “Canons of the Colorado.” These works significantly contributed to the geological understanding of the American West, shaping subsequent research and studies in the region.
Additionally, Powell’s expertise in ethnology led him to conduct extensive research on Native American tribes. He documented their cultures, languages, and customs, recognizing the importance of preserving their heritage. His ethnographic studies formed a crucial foundation for future anthropological research in the United States.
Conservation Advocacy
John Wesley Powell was not only a scientist and explorer but also an early advocate for conservation. Recognizing the fragile nature of the American West’s ecosystems, he became a vocal proponent of sustainable land use practices and preservation efforts. Powell believed that the arid region’s limited water resources necessitated careful management and planning.
In 1879, Powell presented his influential “Report on the Lands of the Arid Region of the United States” to Congress. This groundbreaking report emphasized the need for responsible irrigation and land development strategies, urging policymakers to consider the long-term consequences of uncontrolled resource exploitation. Powell’s report laid the groundwork for the eventual establishment of the U.S. Forest Service and the Bureau of Reclamation, both crucial agencies in land and water management.
Legacy and Impact
John Wesley Powell’s contributions to exploration, science, and conservation continue to resonate today. His expeditions not only unveiled the wonders of the American West but also inspired future generations of explorers and scientists. Powell’s emphasis on interdisciplinary research and his understanding of the intricate relationships between humans and their environment remain
References
Hamilton Nevada
Hamilton is a small ghost town located in White Pine County, Nevada, in the western United States. Despite its current state, the town has a rich and fascinating history. Hamilton, originally known as “Cave City,” was established in 1868 by prospectors searching for silver in the surrounding mountains. The town was renamed Hamilton in honor of a prominent local businessman, W. A. Hamilton, who helped finance the development of the area.
During its peak, Hamilton was a bustling town with a population of over 2,000 people. The town had several hotels, saloons, stores, and a post office. It also had a school, a church, and a theater, which hosted traveling shows and performances. The town’s main industry was mining, and several mines operated in the area, including the Hamilton, Treasure City, and Ward mines.
In the late 19th century, Hamilton was a prosperous town, and its residents enjoyed a good quality of life. However, in the early 20th century, the town began to decline as the mines ran out of ore and the price of silver fell. Many of the town’s residents left in search of better opportunities, and the town’s population dwindled.
During World War II, Hamilton briefly experienced a resurgence as the demand for minerals increased. The town’s mines were reopened, and new mining techniques were introduced. However, after the war, the demand for minerals declined, and the mines were once again closed.
By the 1950s, Hamilton was virtually abandoned, and most of its buildings had fallen into disrepair. However, the town’s history and architecture attracted the attention of preservationists, and efforts were made to restore some of the buildings. In 1961, the Hamilton Ghost Town was established, and the remaining buildings were preserved as a tourist attraction.
Today, Hamilton is a popular destination for tourists interested in Nevada’s mining history. Visitors can explore the town’s preserved buildings, including the schoolhouse, the jail, and the saloon. The town’s cemetery, which dates back to the late 19th century, is also a popular attraction.
In recent years, Hamilton has been the subject of several documentaries and books, which have helped to raise awareness of its history. The town’s abandoned buildings and desolate surroundings provide a glimpse into Nevada’s past and remind us of the hardships and challenges faced by those who settled and worked in the area.
Hamilton, Nevada, may be a ghost town today, but its history and legacy live on. The town’s story is a reminder of the boom-and-bust cycles that have characterized Nevada’s mining industry and the resilience of the people who lived and worked in the area. Hamilton is a testament to the human spirit and a valuable piece of Nevada’s history that should be preserved and celebrated for generations to come.
Hamilton Nevada Town Summary
| Name | Hamilton Nevada |
| Location | White Pine county, Nevada |
| Latitude, Longitude | 39.2529, -115.4864 |
| GNIS | 859930 |
| Elevation | 2456 meters / 8058 feet |
| Newspaper | Inland Empire Mar 27, 1869 – Apr 10, 1870; Oct 4 – Nov 9, 1870 |
| Nevada State Historic Marker No | 53 |
| Nevada State Historic Marker Lat/Long | 39.3535, -115.3946 |
Nevada State Historic Marker Text
Hamilton Nevada is Nevada State Historic Marker number fifty three.
The mines of the White Pine district were first established in 1865. Between 1868 and 1875, they supported many thriving towns including Hamilton, Eberhardt, Treasure City, and Shermantown. These communities, now all ghost towns, are clustered eleven miles south of this point.
Hamilton and its neighbors thrived as a result of large-scale silver discoveries in 1868. Experiencing one of the most intense, but shortest-lived silver stampedes ever recorded, the years 1868-1869 saw some 10,000 people living in huts and caves on Treasure Hill at Mount Hamilton, at an elevation of 8,000 to 10,500 feet above sea level.
Hamilton was incorporated in 1869 and became the first county seat of White Pine County that same year. It was disincorporated in 1875. In this brief span of time, a full-sized town came into bloom with a main street and all the usual businesses. Mine brick courthouse was constructed in 1870.
On June 27, 1873, the main portion of the town was destroyed by fire. The town never fully recovered. In 1885, another fire burned the courthouse and caused the removal of the White Pine County seat to Ely.
STATE HISTORICAL MARKER No. 53
STATE HISTORIC PRESERVATION OFFICE
WHITE PINE PUBLIC MUSEUM INC.