Tag: Ghost town

A ghost town, once a thriving settlement bustling with activity, now stands eerily silent and abandoned. Its streets, once filled with the sounds of daily life, are now overgrown with weeds and lined with crumbling buildings. Windows are shattered, doors hang askew on rusty hinges, and the once-vibrant facades are faded and weather-beaten. The air is thick with a haunting stillness, broken only by the occasional whisper of wind through the desolate alleys. Remnants of its former inhabitants’ lives are scattered throughout—rusted vehicles, tattered curtains, and forgotten toys, all hinting at a sudden, unplanned departure. Nature slowly reclaims the area, with ivy crawling up walls and trees sprouting from cracked pavements, adding an eerie, yet strangely beautiful, touch to the decaying landscape.

Midas Nevada – Elko County Ghost Town

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Midas, Nevada, is a small unincorporated community in Elko County, celebrated for its historical significance as a gold mining town. Established in the early 20th century, Midas has experienced cycles of prosperity and decline, yet it persists as a “living” ghost town with a small, enduring population.

In 1907, the settlement of Midas, was called Gold Circle, because the mining area encircled the camp. - Stanley W. Parmer, Nevada Ghost Towns and Mining Camps, (1970)
In 1907, the settlement of Midas, was called Gold Circle, because the mining area encircled the camp. – Stanley W. Parmer, Nevada Ghost Towns and Mining Camps, (1970)

Early History and Founding

The story of Midas began in June 1907 when James McDuffy discovered gold at the base of the Owyhee Bluffs. Initially named Gold Circle, the town emerged as a bustling mining camp alongside a neighboring settlement called Summit. By April 1908, Gold Circle’s population surpassed 1,000 as prospectors flocked to the area. A post office opened in 1907 and operated until 1942, supporting the growing community.

In 1909, the federal government renamed Gold Circle to Midas, likely to distinguish it from other Nevada towns with “gold” in their titles, which had caused postal confusion. The name Midas, evoking the mythical king who turned everything to gold, aptly reflected the town’s raison d’être. However, early growth was hampered by the absence of local stamp mills to process ore, forcing miners to ship only the richest material to distant facilities. By late 1909, the population dwindled to 250, though the addition of six stamp mills that year laid the groundwork for future resurgence.

Midas, 1908 - Stanley W. Parmer, Nevada Ghost Towns and Mining Camps, (1970), Howell North,
Midas, 1908 – Stanley W. Parmer, Nevada Ghost Towns and Mining Camps, (1970), Howell North,

Mining Industry in Midas

Gold was the lifeblood of Midas, though the ore also yielded silver, copper, lead, and zinc. The Elko Prince Mine emerged as a key operation during the town’s early years. After the initial boom of 1907–1908, the lack of processing infrastructure led to a bust. A second boom from 1916 to 1921 was fueled by the stamp mills, which processed 119 tonnes of ore daily, revitalizing the economy.

Mining declined after the 1920s, and operations halted in 1942 amid World War II, reducing the population to a mere handful by 1950. A modern revival began in 1998 with the Midas Mine, operated by Hecla Mining. This underground facility employs advanced techniques to extract gold and silver, sustaining Midas’ mining legacy into the 21st century.

Social and Cultural Life

At its peak, Midas supported a lively community with saloons, restaurants, a jail, a town hall, and a schoolhouse built in 1927, which served until 1952. The school burned down in 2005, leaving behind playground remnants as a nostalgic relic. Social life included dances, elections, and occasional violence, such as murders on Main Street.

The Midas Bighorn Saloon, housed in a 120-year-old building, remains a cultural cornerstone, welcoming locals and visitors alike. Since 1994, the nonprofit Friends of Midas has preserved the town’s history through photographs, letters, and documents, ensuring its stories endure.

Current Status and Legacy

Today, Midas blends history with modest vitality. With an estimated population of 349 and a median age of 46.4, it hosts full-time residents and seasonal homeowners. Beyond mining, the town attracts hunters and recreationists drawn to its rugged surroundings and historic charm. Preservation efforts by Friends of Midas and the saloon’s continued operation keep the past alive.

Conclusion

Midas, Nevada, embodies the resilience of America’s mining frontier. From its Gold Circle origins to its modern mining renaissance, the town has navigated booms, busts, and reinvention. Though small, Midas remains a vibrant link to Nevada’s gold rush heritage, balancing history with a quiet, enduring present.

Town Summary

NameMidas, Nevada
Also Known As Rosebud, Gold Circle
LocationElko County, Nevada
Latitude, Longitude41.2440709, -116.7967729
GNIS845906
Elevation1750 meters / 5742 feet
Post Office1908 – 1942
Population2000
NewspaperGold Circle Miner (The) Apr 11, 1908
Gold Circle News June 20 – Sept 26, 1908
Gold Circle Porcupine May 20, 1914

Midas Town Map

References

Jessup Nevada – Churchill County Ghost Town

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Jessup, Nevada, is a ghost town in Churchill County with a brief but vibrant history tied to the mining boom of the early 20th century. Founded in 1908 following the discovery of gold and silver, Jessup quickly grew into a bustling mining camp before declining just as rapidly. Today, it stands as a reminder of the transient nature of resource-based economies in the American West.

Early days in Jessup, 1908 - Unknown photographer - Stanley W. Paher, Nevada Ghost Towns & Mining Camps, Howell North, (1970), p 112, Mrs. R.R. Purdy collection
Early days in Jessup, 1908 – Unknown photographer – Stanley W. Paher, Nevada Ghost Towns & Mining Camps, Howell North, (1970), p 112, Mrs. R.R. Purdy collection

Founding and Early History (1908)

Jessup’s story began in February 1908 when Frank Jessup and L.H. Murray discovered gold in the Trinity Range, located in Churchill County, Nevada. The town, initially named White Canyon, was quickly renamed Jessup in honor of its discoverer. Within a month of its founding, the population swelled to over 300 people as prospectors and settlers flocked to the area, drawn by reports of rich ore. The Jessup Mining District was swiftly established, and by April 1908, lumber was arriving by the carload, with wooden structures rapidly replacing the tents that had initially housed the miners. The town’s early infrastructure included grocery stores, saloons, lumber yards, and a meat market, reflecting its sudden growth.

Growth and Peak (1908–1909)

At its peak in 1909, Jessup supported a population of approximately 300 residents and boasted a variety of businesses essential to a mining community. These included:

  • Three grocery stores
  • Two lumber yards
  • Seven saloons
  • A meat market

Averaging one saloon for every 43 citizens, this highlights the town’s rough-and-tumble character. The post office, opened in 1908, further solidified Jessup’s status as an official settlement. Transportation was facilitated by the Southern Pacific Railroad, which provided access by stopping at nearby White Plains, allowing for the shipment of supplies and high-grade ore. The mines in the Jessup Mining District were highly productive, with carloads of ore assaying over $100 per ton shipped by rail from Huxley. At least eight active mines operated in the area, contributing to the town’s economic vitality.

Mining Operations

The Jessup Mining District was the heart of the town’s economy, with gold and silver as the primary commodities. Key mines included:

  • Gold King: The original discovery claim.
  • Valley King Group: Produced about 1,000 ounces of gold in 1908–1909.

Ore was initially hauled using automobiles—a novel method at the time—before being shipped by rail. Despite the early success, the mines’ output began to wane by the end of 1909, signaling the start of Jessup’s decline. In later decades, intermittent mining activity continued, with lessees conducting minor work, but the district never regained its former prominence. More recently, exploration in the 1980s and 1990s identified additional gold and silver resources, though these efforts were separate from the original mining boom.

Decline and Abandonment (1909–1910s)

Jessup’s boom was short-lived, with the town’s fortunes declining rapidly after 1909. The depletion of easily accessible ore, a common fate for mining towns, led to a sharp decrease in population and economic activity. By the end of 1909, the initial excitement had faded, and the town was slowly abandoned. The post office eventually closed, though the exact date is not recorded. By the 1910s, Jessup was largely deserted, with only sporadic mining efforts in the following decades. The harsh desert environment likely contributed to the town’s inability to sustain itself once the mining boom ended. Today, only a few dilapidated wooden buildings and abandoned mines remain.

Current Status and Legacy

Jessup is now a ghost town, located a few miles north of Interstate 80 between Fernley and Lovelock. The surrounding area, part of the Trinity Range, is still used for ranching, and modern radio towers, including Nevada’s tallest, stand nearby. While the town itself is abandoned, its history is preserved through remnants of its mining past. The Jessup Gold Prospect, a more recent mining venture, highlights the area’s continued potential for resource extraction, though it remains distinct from the original 1908 boom. Jessup’s rise and fall exemplify the boom-and-bust cycles that shaped many Western mining towns.

Chronological Table of Key Events

YearEventDetails
1908Discovery of gold and silverFrank Jessup and L.H. Murray discover gold in the Trinity Range
1908Town founded, renamed JessupPopulation grows to over 300 within months
1908Jessup Mining District establishedAt least eight active mines, ore shipped by rail from Huxley
1909Peak population and activity300 residents, multiple businesses, post office operational
1909Decline beginsMining boom falters, population decreases
1910sTown largely abandonedOnly intermittent mining activity in subsequent decades
1980s–1990sModern explorationJessup Gold Prospect identifies additional resources, but no major revival

Conclusion

Jessup’s history is a microcosm of the American West’s mining frontier, characterized by rapid growth, brief prosperity, and swift decline. Founded on the promise of gold and silver, the town’s fortunes were tied to the mines that sustained it. While Jessup’s boom was fleeting, its story endures as a testament to the challenges and opportunities of Nevada’s mining heritage.

Town Summary

NameJessup Nevada
White Canyon, Nevada
LocationChurchill County, Nevada
Latitude, Longitude39.948611, -118.875
Elevation4550 Feet
Population300
Post OfficeMarch 1908 – July 1912

Jessup Nevada Trail Map

References

Boyer Nevada – Churchill County Ghost Town

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Boyer, Nevada, is a ghost town located in northeastern Churchill County, Nevada, near the mouth of Cottonwood Canyon in Dixie Valley.

Establishment and Naming

Boyer was established in the early 1860s, with its post office opening on April 22, 1896, and operating until January 31, 1914. The town was named after Alva Boyer, a prospector and the first postmaster, who settled in the area and established the Boyer Ranch. Alva’s discovery of copper in the region marked the beginning of Boyer’s brief but notable history as a mining and ranching community. The town’s location, approximately 50 miles south of Lovelock, positioned it as a minor hub in Churchill County, connected to the Southern Pacific Railroad for shipping and banking purposes.

Economic Activities

Mining

Boyer’s economy was primarily driven by copper mining, which began in the early 1860s. The Boyer copper deposit, part of the Table Mountain Mining District, contained chalcopyrite and other copper sulfides found in fine fractures and amygdule fillings within mafic volcanic rocks. In 1861, several wagon-trains transported rich copper sulfide ore from Boyer to Sacramento, and subsequently to smelters in Swansea, Wales, indicating the high value of the ore extracted during this period. By 1907, mining activities were still significant, with reports of a proposed traction wagon road from Mill City to Goldbanks, including Boyer as a stop, highlighting its role in regional mining logistics. However, the lack of a local mill limited the processing of lower-grade ores, as only ore valued at $90 per ton or higher was economically viable for shipment.

Ranching

In addition to mining, Boyer supported a ranching community centered around the Boyer Ranch, established by Alva Boyer. The ranch served as a critical component of the town’s identity, providing agricultural support and serving as a base for the post office and mining operations. The 1907 Nevada Directory noted Boyer as a shipping point and banking town, with a weekly stage to Lovelock costing $3.00, underscoring its role in regional trade and communication.

Connection to Eagleville

Boyer was often associated with Eagleville, a mining area 11 miles northeast of Rawhide, approximately 50 miles from Boyer. Eagleville, active from the 1880s, had a post office from June 3, 1889, to March 13, 1913, and was known for placer mining between 1905 and 1908. Despite their proximity, the two towns were distinct, with a notable 1907 postal cover bearing both Boyer and Eagleville postmarks, suggesting some level of mail exchange or regional connectivity. The rarity of this cover, noted as unique in 2016, highlights the historical significance of Boyer’s postal operations.

Decline and Ghost Town Status

Boyer’s decline began in the early 20th century, culminating in the closure of its post office in 1914. Several factors contributed to this decline, including the exhaustion of easily accessible high-grade copper ore and the lack of infrastructure, such as a local mill, which made processing lower-grade ore uneconomical. The town’s remote location and reliance on distant markets for ore processing further limited its sustainability. By the mid-20th century, Boyer had become a ghost town, with only remnants of the Boyer Ranch and mining structures remaining, as documented in modern photographic records.

Churchill County Context

Churchill County, established on November 25, 1861, and named after Mexican-American War hero Brevet Brigadier General Sylvester Churchill, provided the broader historical and geographical context for Boyer. The county, with its seat in Fallon, was characterized by rugged terrain, including mountainous ridges and desert landscapes, which influenced the development of isolated communities like Boyer. The county’s economy benefited from reclamation projects like the Carson-Truckee Project (1903) and Lahontan Dam (1914), which transformed parts of the desert into agricultural land, but these developments primarily supported Fallon and other larger settlements, leaving remote areas like Boyer less impacted.

Conclusion

Boyer, Nevada, represents a quintessential example of a short-lived mining and ranching community in Churchill County. Named after Alva Boyer, the town thrived briefly in the late 19th and early 20th centuries due to copper mining and ranching activities. Despite its economic contributions, the lack of local processing infrastructure and the exhaustion of high-grade ore led to its decline, resulting in its current status as a ghost town. Today, Boyer serves as a historical reminder of Nevada’s mining heritage and the challenges faced by remote communities in sustaining economic viability.

Sources

  • Nevada Expeditions, “Boyer”
  • Mindat.org, “Boyer copper deposit”
  • Uncovering Nevada, “Eagleville, 1907, Boyer Nevada”
  • Wikipedia, “Churchill County, Nevada”
  • Britannica, “Churchill County, Nevada”

Masonic California – Mono County Ghost Town

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Originally known as Lorena, Masonic California is a ghost town located in the mountains north east of Bridgeport, California.  Masonic was founded in 1860 by masons and therefor the name of the town.  The Masonic District was a natural follower to the excitement is neighboring Aurora and Bodie.  This area was small in scale comparatively and a stamp mill wasn’t onsite until 1907.  The population maxes out at about 1000 people, and about four years later the excitement began to wane.

Mill site from the middle section of Masonic, California. Photograph by James L Rathbun
Mill site from the middle section of Masonic, California. Photograph by James L Rathbun

Early Beginnings (1860–1900)

The ghost town of Masonic, located approximately 10 miles northeast of Bridgeport in Mono County, California, emerged in the 1860s when a group of Freemasons discovered gold in the region. Named for the fraternal order, the settlement was initially called Lorena and developed into three distinct sections: Upper Town (originally Lorena), Middle Town, and Lower Town (formerly Caliveda). Situated in a canyon near the Nevada border in the Bodie Hills, Masonic’s early gold claims were overshadowed by larger strikes in nearby Bodie and Aurora, leaving the area largely undeveloped for decades.

In 1900, a 16-year-old prospector from Bodie named Joe Green rediscovered gold, establishing the Jump Up Joe Mine. Unable to finance its development, Green sold the claim, which sparked renewed interest in the Masonic Mining District. This district, spanning roughly 6 by 12 miles, encompassed over 40 claims at its peak and set the stage for Masonic’s brief boom.

Masonic Mill Site, Masonic, California. Photograph by James L Rathbun
Masonic Mill Site, Masonic, California. Photograph by James L Rathbun

Boom Years (1902–1911)

The discovery that transformed Masonic occurred on July 4, 1902, when partners John Stuart Phillips, Caleb Dorsey, and John M. Bryan struck a rich quartz ledge, founding the Pittsburg-Liberty Mine—named for Phillips’ hometown of Pittsburgh and the Independence Day holiday. Ore from the mine assayed at values between $35 and $800 per ton, with a reported nugget in 1904 valued at $4,000 per ton. This strike triggered a mining boom, and by 1906, Masonic’s population reached approximately 1,000 residents.

Infrastructure developed rapidly to support the growing community. By 1904, new roads linked Masonic to Bridgeport and Bodie, facilitating freight and passenger traffic. Lumber was transported nearly 50 miles from Mono Mills via the Bodie & Benton Railroad and six-horse wagons over Geiger Grade. Stagecoach lines connected Masonic to Wellington, Nevada, and Conway Ranch in the Mono Basin by 1906–1907. Telephone service arrived in 1905, and Middle Town saw the construction of a solid aspen-log cabin for Mr. and Mrs. H. H. Carpenter, notable for its rare glass-paneled door.

Middle Town became the commercial center, hosting a post office (established as Lorena in 1905, renamed Masonic in 1906), a general store, a livery stable, a butcher shop, and a hotel/boarding house. Lower Town featured the Jeffry Hotel, two saloons, and the Pittsburg-Liberty Mill, while Upper Town housed mine offices. The Masonic Pioneer newspaper, published by George Montrose of the Bridgeport Chronicle-Union, began in November 1905 but ceased after 2–3 years. Despite its growth, Masonic lacked a formal Masonic lodge, churches, or brothels, and maintained a relatively orderly reputation compared to Bodie, with no recorded shootings. Social life flourished, with dances featuring the Bodie Orchestra attracting large crowds.

In 1907, the Pittsburg-Liberty Mine opened a 10-stamp mill, allowing on-site ore processing. By 1910, the mine had produced approximately $700,000 in gold (equivalent to millions today). However, the ore veins were inconsistent, and production began to decline by 1911.

A wonderful view of Bodie is available to the travels en route to Masonic. Photography by James L Rathbun
A wonderful view of Bodie is available to the travels en route to Masonic. Photography by James L Rathbun

Decline and Abandonment (1911–1930s)

Masonic’s prosperity was fleeting due to shallow and uneven ore deposits. By 1911, mining activity had significantly decreased. A tramway constructed in 1913 to transport ore to the mill provided only temporary relief. The post office closed in 1912, briefly reopened in 1913, and shut permanently in 1927, with services transferred to Bridgeport. By 1920, the population had dwindled to just 12 residents, and mining activity nearly ceased by the 1930s. World War II’s ban on non-essential gold mining delivered the final blow, leaving Masonic abandoned.

Masonic Today

Today, Masonic is a true ghost town with minimal remnants, primarily in Middle Town, including stone cabin ruins, the timbered frame of the Pittsburg-Liberty Mill, and parts of the aerial tram system. Accessible via a 12-mile 2WD road from Bridgeport or an 8-mile 4WD route from Sweetwater Road, the site offers stunning views of the Sweetwater Mountains and Bridgeport Valley. Local lore suggests the ghost of John Phillips haunts the nearby Chemung Mine on Saturday nights, adding to the town’s eerie allure. Unlike the preserved Bodie State Historic Park, Masonic remains a “wild” ghost town, attracting adventurers and historians seeking an unpolished glimpse into California’s gold rush era.

Masonic’s ruins stand as a testament to its brief but vibrant history, reflecting the transient nature of mining towns in the American West. Its remote location and sparse remains preserve its rugged authenticity, making it a compelling destination for those exploring Mono County’s past.

Masonic Trail Map

Gold Hill Nevada

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Gold Hill, Nevada, is a historic mining town in Storey County, located in the heart of the Comstock Lode, one of the most significant silver and gold discoveries in American history. Established in the early 1860s, Gold Hill played a pivotal role in Nevada’s economic and cultural development during the 19th-century mining boom.

Gold Hill, Nevada Circa 1867, 1868 Photographer Timothy H. O'Sullivan
Gold Hill, Nevada Circa 1867, 1868 Photographer Timothy H. O’Sullivan

Founding and Early Development

Gold Hill was founded in 1859 following the discovery of the Comstock Lode, a massive silver and gold deposit that triggered a mining rush in the Nevada Territory. Located just south of Virginia City, the town was named for its ore-rich hillside, home to prolific mines like the Yellow Jacket, Crown Point, and Kentuck. By the early 1860s, Gold Hill had grown into a bustling community, with a population reaching approximately 8,000 at its peak.

The town’s rapid development was fueled by the Comstock’s wealth, attracting miners, merchants, and speculators. Infrastructure, including boarding houses, saloons, and stores, sprang up to support the growing population. The Gold Hill News, launched on November 14, 1863, became the town’s primary newspaper, chronicling its growth and serving as a vital communication tool.

Economic and Industrial Importance

Gold Hill’s economy was anchored by the Comstock Lode’s mining industry, which produced millions of dollars in silver and gold. Major mines like the Yellow Jacket and Crown Point drove prosperity, with ore extraction and processing dominating the town’s landscape. The introduction of innovative technologies, such as Philipp Deidesheimer’s square-set timbering, enabled deeper and safer mining, cementing Gold Hill’s reputation as an industrial hub.

The Virginia & Truckee Railroad, completed in 1869, connected Gold Hill to Virginia City and Carson City, streamlining the transport of ore and supplies. Mills and smelters dotted the town, processing raw materials and supporting the region’s economic output. The wealth generated by Gold Hill’s mines played a critical role in Nevada’s economic growth and its path to statehood in 1864.

Gold Hill, Nevada, View from above the Yellow Jacket. Date of photo: Late 1870s Photographer: Carleton Watkins
Gold Hill, Nevada, View from above the Yellow Jacket. Date of photo: Late 1870s Photographer: Carleton Watkins

Social and Cultural Dynamics

Gold Hill’s population was diverse, including American-born miners, European immigrants, Chinese laborers, and others drawn to the Comstock’s opportunities. The town’s social scene was lively but rough, with saloons, gambling halls, and theaters catering to residents. The Gold Hill Hotel, established in the 1860s, remains a historic landmark and one of Nevada’s oldest operating hotels.

The Gold Hill News documented the town’s social and cultural life, covering events, disputes, and community issues. For instance, a May 31, 1864, issue addressed a boundary dispute between Gold Hill and American Flat, reflecting the town’s role in local governance. The newspaper also reported on labor conditions and mining accidents, highlighting the challenges of frontier life.

Fires were a persistent threat, with a major blaze in 1875 destroying much of Gold Hill. The town was rebuilt, but such disasters, combined with disease and dangerous working conditions, underscored the hardships faced by residents.

Political Influence and Statehood

Gold Hill contributed significantly to Nevada’s political landscape. The wealth from its mines bolstered the Union’s finances during the Civil War, supporting Nevada’s expedited statehood in 1864. The town’s residents engaged in debates over mining regulations, taxation, and local governance, with the Gold Hill News serving as a forum for political discourse.

As part of the Comstock region, Gold Hill helped shape Nevada’s early political identity. Local leaders addressed issues like property disputes and infrastructure, while the town’s economic clout gave it influence in territorial and state politics.

Decline and Transition

The late 1870s marked the beginning of Gold Hill’s decline as the Comstock Lode’s richest veins were depleted. By the 1880s, many mines had closed, and the population plummeted to a few hundred. The Gold Hill News ceased publication in 1882, signaling the town’s economic downturn. By the early 20th century, Gold Hill had become a shadow of its former self, with many residents leaving for new opportunities.

Legacy and Modern Gold Hill

Gold Hill’s legacy endures through its historical significance and preserved landmarks. The town is part of the Comstock Historic District, listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Sites like the Gold Hill Hotel and remnants of mining infrastructure attract tourists and historians. Digitized issues of the Gold Hill News, available through platforms like the Library of Congress’s Chronicling America, provide valuable insights into the town’s past.

Today, Gold Hill is a small community with a population under 200, serving as a tourist destination within the Comstock region. Historical tours, reenactments, and the restored Virginia & Truckee Railroad draw visitors eager to explore Nevada’s mining heritage.

Gold Hill Nevada Trail Map

Gold Hill Nevada Summary

NameGold Hill, Nevada
LocationStorey County, Nevada
Latitude, Longitude39.2931, -119.6566
Elevation5,980 Feet
GNIS
Population8,000 Max
95 Current
NewspapersGold Hill Daily News Oct 12, 1863 – Apr 1882
Daily Morning Message June 16, 1864
People’s Tribune (The) Jan – June 1870
Post OfficeJul. 13, 1862 – Feb. 27, 1943