Historical – Page 3

#10 – Calico Ghost Town: A Historical Adventure

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Calico Ghost Town is a fascinating destination that offers a glimpse into the past, specifically the boom-and-bust era of the American West. Here’s a detailed look at what makes Calico Ghost Town a popular attraction:

History of Calico Ghost Town

Founding and Boom Era: Calico was founded in 1881 during the California silver rush. At its peak, the town boasted over 500 mines and produced millions of dollars worth of silver ore.
Decline: By the mid-1890s, silver prices had plummeted, leading to the decline of mining activities. Calico was largely abandoned by the early 20th century, becoming a true ghost town.

Attractions and Activities

Mine Tours:
- Maggie Mine: This is one of the few mines in Calico that is safe for tourists to enter. Visitors can take a self-guided tour to learn about the mining techniques and see the remnants of the silver extraction process.
- Calico Odessa Railroad: A narrow-gauge train ride that offers a scenic tour of the town and the surrounding mining areas, providing insights into the town’s mining history.
Historical Buildings:
- Lane’s General Store: Restored to its 1880s appearance, this general store offers a variety of souvenirs and historical artifacts.
- Schoolhouse: A replica of the original schoolhouse where children of miners once studied. It now serves as a museum displaying educational artifacts from the era.
- Lil’s Saloon: A typical Old West saloon where visitors can enjoy refreshments and imagine the lively atmosphere of Calico during its heyday.
Living History and Reenactments:
- Gunfight Shows: Regularly scheduled reenactments of gunfights and skirmishes typical of the Wild West, performed by actors in period costumes.
- Ghost Tours: Evening tours that delve into the spookier side of Calico’s history, sharing ghost stories and legends associated with the town.
Shops and Craft Demonstrations:
- Blacksmith Shop: Demonstrations of traditional blacksmithing techniques, with the opportunity to purchase handmade metal items.
- Pottery and Leather Shops: Artisans demonstrate their crafts, offering unique, handmade goods for sale.
Special Events:
- Calico Days: An annual festival celebrating the town’s history with parades, live music, and old-fashioned games.
- Ghost Haunt: A Halloween-themed event featuring haunted attractions and spooky activities for all ages.

Natural Surroundings

Hiking Trails: Various trails around Calico offer hiking opportunities with views of the desert landscape and remnants of old mining operations.
Desert Flora and Fauna: The area is home to unique desert plants and wildlife, complementing the historical attractions.

Visitor Information

Accessibility: Calico Ghost Town is easily accessible from major highways and offers ample parking for visitors.
Facilities: The site includes picnic areas, restrooms, and camping facilities for those wishing to extend their visit.

Significance

Educational Value: Calico Ghost Town serves as an important educational resource, teaching visitors about the history of mining, the lifestyle of early settlers, and the economic forces that shaped the American West.
Preservation: The town has been designated a California Historical Landmark and is maintained by the San Bernardino County Regional Parks system, ensuring its preservation for future generations.

Calico Ghost Town offers a unique blend of history, entertainment, and education, making it a must-visit destination for anyone interested in the rich heritage of the Mojave Desert and the American West.

The Legend of Elizabeth Lake

Elizabeth Lake

Elizabeth Lake, located in the Sierra Pelona Mountains of Los Angeles County, California, is enveloped in folklore and legend, making it one of the most intriguing spots in the Mojave Desert region. The most prominent legend associated with Elizabeth Lake involves mysterious and terrifying creatures.

The Myth of the Monster

According to local lore, Elizabeth Lake is home to a monster described as a massive, dragon-like creature. This legend dates back to the early Spanish settlers and the indigenous people before them. The beast, often called the “Elizabeth Lake Monster,” has wings, a long tail, and a fearsome appearance. Accounts of sightings have persisted through the centuries, often varying in detail but maintaining the core elements of a menacing beast.

Historical Accounts

In the mid-19th century, stories of the monster were popular among ranchers and settlers. Some tales suggest that the creature could fly, and its wingspan was so large that it cast a shadow over the entire lake. These stories contributed to the lake’s reputation as a place to be feared.

Explanations and Speculation

Several theories attempt to explain the legend of Elizabeth Lake. Some suggest that the stories originated from large birds or other wildlife sightings. Others believe that the lake’s mysterious aura and the eerie atmosphere could have fueled imaginations, leading to the creation of the monster legend.

Modern Interest

Today, Elizabeth Lake remains a site of curiosity for locals and visitors. While no concrete evidence of the monster’s existence has ever been found, the legend remains part of the area’s cultural heritage. The picturesque lake attracts nature enthusiasts and those intrigued by its storied past.

Conclusion

The Legend of Elizabeth Lake is a captivating part of Mojave Desert folklore. Whether rooted in real events or purely a product of imagination, the stories of the Elizabeth Lake Monster add a layer of mystique to this serene and beautiful spot in California.

Antelope Valley

Swarthout Lodge

Big Pines Recreation Area, Angeles National Forest

Swarthout Lodge, located in the Big Pines Recreation Area of the Angeles National Forest, has a rich history tied to developing recreational facilities in Southern California. Here’s a detailed overview of its history:

Early Beginnings

1924: The Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors established the Big Pines Recreation Area as a mountain resort to promote public recreation. This was part of a broader effort to make the natural beauty of the San Gabriel Mountains accessible to the public.
Initial Development: The area quickly became popular for winter sports and summer activities. Facilities such as lodges, cabins, and a ski jump were constructed to accommodate visitors.

Swarthout Lodge

Construction: Swarthout Lodge was one of the central buildings in the Big Pines Recreation Area. Named after H. L. Swarthout, the lodge served as a visitor hub.
Architecture: The lodge was designed in a rustic style typical of mountain resorts of the era. Its focus was on blending into the natural surroundings while providing essential amenities for guests.

Role in Recreation

Winter Sports: The lodge played a significant role in promoting winter sports, particularly skiing. Big Pines became a premier destination for Southern Californians seeking snow sports, and Swarthout Lodge was at the heart of this activity.
Summer Activities: During the summer, the lodge served as a base for hiking, fishing, and other outdoor activities. Its location in the Angeles National Forest provided easy access to numerous trails and scenic spots.

Decline and Changes

Mid-20th Century: As recreational trends changed and other mountain resorts developed, the popularity of Big Pines and Swarthout Lodge began to decline. Additionally, natural disasters like fires and floods affected the area, leading to periods of reconstruction and change.
Transition: Over the years, the lodge’s management and use evolved. Parts of the original facilities were repurposed or fell into disrepair, reflecting broader changes in public recreation and forest management policies.

Legacy and Current Status

Preservation Efforts: In recent years, efforts have been made to preserve and restore historic structures within the Big Pines Recreation Area, including Swarthout Lodge. These efforts aim to maintain the historical significance and promote the area’s rich heritage.
Modern Use: Today, the Big Pines Recreation Area offers recreational opportunities, although the focus has shifted to more sustainable and environmentally conscious practices. Swarthout Lodge’s history remains a testament to the early efforts to make natural landscapes accessible for public enjoyment.

With its historical significance and role in the development of outdoor recreation in Southern California, Swarthout Lodge remains an important part of the heritage and history of the Angeles National Forest.

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Ice skate jumping at Big Pines Recreation Camp, 1929

Photograph of ice skate jumping at Big Pines Recreation Camp, 1929. Five barrels labeled “Big Pines Skating Club” are stacked on their sides on the ice at the center. A skater in dark clothing and a lightly-colored hat is mid-jump over the barrels. Tall evergreen trees stand in the background.;

“In 1923, Los Angeles County established a major recreational facility at Big Pines, an all-year resort that included winter and summer sports. Big Pines Recreation Camp (elevation 6,862 feet) had cabins, a dining room, a fountain, and a store. Many buildings still stand (notably one of the two stone towers that once supported a pedestrian overpass across Highway 2, west of Wrightwood). Now administered by the U.S. Forest Service, Big Pines is a popular recreation area encompassing three ski resorts, several campgrounds, and Jackson Lake.”

Title: Ice skate jumping at Big Pines Recreation Camp, 1929
Date: 1929
Collection: California Historical Society Collection, 1860-1960
Owning Institution: California Historical Society
Source: Calisphere
Date of access: May 19 2024 16:16
Permalink: https://calisphere.org/item/82e13683baac344604588a7655825d43/

Big Pines Recreation Area

Angeles Crest Scenic Highway

Wrightwood California

Jackson Lake

The Rose-Baley Wagon Train

The Rose-Baley Wagon Train was a significant event in the history of American westward migration. Here is an overview of its history:

Background and Planning

The Rose-Baley Wagon Train was one of the earliest attempts to reach California via the newly built Beale Wagon Road. The expedition was organized in 1858 by two groups, one led by Leonard Rose from New Mexico and another by Dr. Joseph R. Bailey (often spelled Baley) from Iowa. Their goal was to find a shorter and safer route to California, bypassing the treacherous terrain and hostile territories commonly faced on the Oregon and Santa Fe Trails.

The Journey Begins

The two groups met in Albuquerque, New Mexico, in July 1858. They combined their resources, forming a large wagon train of about 60 to 70 wagons and over 100 people, including men, women, and children. They followed the Beale Wagon Road, which had been surveyed by Edward Fitzgerald Beale, a former naval officer and explorer.

Challenges and Conflicts

The journey was fraught with difficulties. The terrain was rugged, and the summer heat in the desert was relentless. Water sources were scarce, making sustaining the livestock and the travelers challenging.

In August 1858, the wagon train faced a significant challenge when encountering the Mojave Desert. They were attacked by a group of Native Americans, often identified as Mojave Indians, who were hostile to the encroachment on their lands. The attack resulted in the death of several members of the wagon train and significant loss of livestock.

Turning Back

After the attack, the survivors were forced to abandon their goal of reaching California via the Beale Wagon Road. They retreated to Albuquerque, where they regrouped and considered their options. The expedition’s failure was a significant setback for those hoping to establish a new route to California.

Legacy

The Rose-Baley Wagon Train is remembered as one of the early attempts to pioneer new routes to the West Coast. Despite its failure, the expedition highlighted the challenges of westward expansion and the need for more secure and reliable routes. It also underscored the tensions between settlers and Native American tribes during American history.

The Beale Wagon Road itself eventually became a significant route for future migrations, contributing to the expansion and development of the American West. The experiences of the Rose-Baley Wagon Train provided valuable lessons for subsequent expeditions and were part of the broader narrative of the westward movement in the United States.

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https://mojavedesert.net/mojave-indians/us-04.html

https://mojavedesert.net/mojave-indians/

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Pendergast Hotel

Ludlow, California

The Pendergast Hotel in Ludlow, California, has a rich history tied to the development of the Mojave Desert and the railroad’s bustling activity.

Early History and Construction: The Pendergast Hotel was established during the late 19th century, likely around the time the Southern Pacific Railroad extended its lines through the Mojave Desert. Ludlow became an important stop along the route, leading to the development of various amenities, including hotels to serve travelers and workers.

Ownership and Operation: The hotel was named after its owner, Edward Pendergast, a prominent figure in the local community. Pendergast was involved in various business ventures and contributed to the growth and development of Ludlow.

Role in the Community: The Pendergast Hotel served as a central hub for the community, providing lodging, meals, and a place for social gatherings. It catered to railroad workers, miners, and travelers passing through the region.

Decline and Historical Significance: As the railroad’s importance diminished and transportation shifted towards automobiles, Ludlow and the Pendergast Hotel experienced a decline. However, the hotel remains a significant part of Ludlow’s history, representing the era of railroad expansion and the development of the Mojave Desert.

Preservation and Legacy: While the hotel no longer operates, it stands as a historical landmark, offering a glimpse into the past and Ludlow’s role in the broader context of the Mojave Desert’s development.

If you are interested in more detailed historical accounts, local archives, and historical societies in the area may provide further insights into the Pendergast Hotel and its impact on the region.

Historic Journey: The Road to Panamint

Introduction

Nestled within the rugged landscapes of Eastern California, the Panamint Valley is home to a historical artery that has played a pivotal role in developing the American West—the road to Panamint. Originally trodden by Native Americans and later transformed by the ambitions of silver miners, this route not only facilitated economic booms but also bore witness to the ebbs and flows of fortune. The road to Panamint is a testament to the region’s mining era, epitomizing the broader transportation infrastructure development crucial for westward expansion.

Historical Background

The Panamint Valley, framed by the arid peaks of the Panamint Range, was first utilized by the Shoshone Native Americans, who traversed these harsh landscapes following seasonal migration patterns and trade routes. The discovery of silver in 1872 marked a turning point for the valley. News of silver attracted droves of prospectors, catalyzing the establishment of mining camps and the nascent stages of the road. This road would soon become the lifeline for a burgeoning settlement, later known as Panamint City.

Development of the Road

The transformation from a series of Native trails to a fully functional road was propelled by the mining industry’s explosive growth. As prospectors and entrepreneurs flooded the area, the demand for a reliable transportation route skyrocketed. The road to Panamint was quickly carved out of the valley’s rugged terrain, facilitating the movement of people and ore. During the mid-1870s, Panamint City blossomed into a boomtown, with the road being crucial for transporting silver ore to markets beyond the valley. However, as the mines depleted and profits dwindled, the road witnessed the departure of those who had come seeking fortune, leaving behind ghost towns and tales of a fleeting era.

Significance in Regional History

Beyond its economic contributions, the road to Panamint played a significant role in shaping the regional history of Eastern California. It facilitated the integration of remote areas into the state’s broader economic and cultural fabric. Moreover, it was a stage for several historical events, including conflicts between Native Americans and settlers and among competing mining companies. The road connected Panamint with the outside world and helped establish transportation routes that would later support the growth of other regional industries and settlements.

Preservation and Legacy

Today, the road to Panamint is a shadow of its former self, yet it remains an integral part of the cultural heritage of the American West. Efforts have been undertaken to preserve its historical significance, recognizing the road as a physical pathway and a historical document inscribed upon the landscape. It is featured in historical tours, providing insights into the challenges and triumphs of those who once traveled its length in pursuit of silver and survival. The preservation of this road allows contemporary visitors and historians alike to traverse the same paths miners once did, offering a tangible connection to the past.

Conclusion

The road to Panamint encapsulates the spirit of an era driven by the quest for precious metals and the relentless push toward the West. Its historical importance remains a key narrative in understanding how transportation helped shape the economic and cultural landscapes of the American West. As we reflect on its legacy, the road to Panamint continues to offer valuable lessons on resilience and the transient nature of human endeavors.

https://mojavedesert.net/history/pioneer/part-time-prospector-16.html

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https://mojavedesert.net/desert-fever/panamint.html

https://digital-desert.com/panamint-city

The Carson and Colorado Railway: A Historical Overview

https://mojavedesert.net/railroads/carson-and-colorado

The Carson and Colorado Railway, initially incorporated on May 10, 1880, was a critical artery in the economic development of Nevada and Eastern California. Running approximately 300 miles from Mound House, Nevada, to Keeler, California, this narrow-gauge railway navigated some of the region’s most challenging terrains, including the formidable 7,100-foot-high Montgomery Pass.

Carson & Colorado at Mt. Montgomery Pass – 1882

Early Days and Expansion

Construction of the railway began swiftly after its incorporation, aiming to connect the isolated mining and agricultural communities along its route. Operations commenced on August 1, 1883, with the railway serving as a vital transport link for ore, goods, and passengers. The line initially facilitated the economic boom in mining areas, particularly with the discovery of silver and gold in Tonopah and Goldfield, Nevada.

Technical Specifications

The railway was built as a narrow gauge (3 feet or 914 mm), which was more economical and could handle the sharp curves and steep grades of the mountainous regions better than standard gauges. It used a variety of steam locomotives suitable for the narrow gauge and the challenging conditions of the route. These trains were crucial for transporting diverse freight, including timber, livestock, and minerals, and also provided passenger services essential for local populations’ mobility.

Strategic Reorganizations

In 1892, the railway was reorganized as the Carson and Colorado Railway. In 1900, it was sold to the Southern Pacific Company, marking a significant transition in its operations. This acquisition integrated the Carson and Colorado into a larger railway network, enhancing its operational capacity through better resources and management. The northern section from Mound House to Mina was converted to standard gauge in 1905, facilitating direct interchange with other lines and improving logistical efficiency.

Decline and Legacy

Despite its importance, the railway’s relevance waned with the rise of automobiles and improved road networks. The railway began phasing out operations, with parts of the line abandoned in the 1930s and 1940s. The last train ran on April 29, 1960, and the tracks were removed in January 1961.

Today, the legacy of the Carson and Colorado Railway is preserved in museums and historical sites along the former route. These sites celebrate its role in the development of the American West, particularly in how it supported remote communities and contributed to the region’s economic dynamism.

Community Impact

The presence of the railway significantly shaped communities like Mound House, Hawthorne, Bishop, and Laws. The railway not only supported local economies but also fostered their growth by connecting them to larger markets and other parts of the country. The connection at Mound House with the Virginia and Truckee Railroad was particularly crucial, enhancing the flow of goods and ores from Nevada’s mining districts to broader markets.

The Carson and Colorado Railway remains a topic of interest for historians and railway enthusiasts. It symbolizes the challenges and triumphs of maintaining railway service in one of America’s most rugged landscapes.

This article provides a comprehensive look at the historical and technical aspects of the Carson and Colorado Railway, illustrating its importance in the development and eventual decline of regional rail transport in the American West.

Jefferson Hunt

https://mojavedesert.net/people/hunt.html

Jefferson Hunt was a significant figure in the history of the American West, particularly in the Mojave Desert. Born in 1803, Hunt was a captain in the Mormon Battalion during the Mexican-American War and later played a crucial role as a pioneer and explorer.

Key Contributions:

Mormon Battalion: As a captain in the Mormon Battalion, Hunt led his men on one of the longest infantry marches in U.S. history, from Council Bluffs, Iowa, to San Diego, California. This journey helped to open up the Southern Route, which passed through the Mojave Desert.
Guide and Explorer: Hunt became a prominent guide and explorer in the Southwest after his military service. He was instrumental in establishing and improving overland trails. His deep knowledge of the terrain and survival skills made him a valuable leader for settlers moving west.
California Legislature: Hunt served as a representative in the first California Legislature from 1850 to 1851. During his term, he advocated for the interests of settlers and worked on development policies that affected the Mojave Desert region.
Settlements and Communities: Jefferson Hunt founded several communities, notably contributing to the Mormon colonization of San Bernardino in California. His efforts helped establish vital supply routes and settlements that facilitated further migration and trade.

Jefferson Hunt’s contributions to the development and exploration of the Mojave Desert are a testament to his leadership and pioneering spirit. His work helped to shape the patterns of settlement and economic growth in the region during a crucial period in American history.

Captain Jefferson Hunt

mojavedesert.net › people › hunt

Captain Jefferson Hunt … their way and became the Lost Death Valley 49ers. In 1851, his church called him to help create a Mormon settlement in San …

Jefferson Hunt – Notes

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Dec 22, 2021 … Death Valley’s Lost ’49ers. Jefferson Hunt’s Mojave San Joaquin Company, a wagon train made up of anxious gold seekers and settlers frustrated …

The Mormon Battalion

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On the 11th of June, 1847, accompanied by Captain Jefferson Hunt‘s Mormon Battalion, the Mormons trek for Salt Lake started. They left Council Bluffs, Iowa; …

Mormon Battalion

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Captain Jefferson Hunt. Captain in the Mormon Battalion – Led the Mojave/San Joaquin Company (Mojave Sand-walking Company) to Southern California, a portion of …

William Lewis Manly

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History: Profiles in Mojave Desert History. William Lewis Manly. The Bennett-Arcane party had split off from Jefferson Hunt’s “Mojave Sand-Walking …

Jefferson Hunt’s Mojave San Joaquin Company, a wagon train made up of … Jefferson Hunt to guide them to Los Angeles over the Old Spanish Trail. At the …

Bennett–Arcan – Notes

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Jefferson Hunt’s Mojave San Joaquin Company, a wagon train made up of anxious gold seekers and settlers frustrated by a late start across the desert in late …

Steamboats on the Colorado River

https://mojavedesert.net/steamboats/colorado-steamboats.html

Steamboats on the Colorado River played a significant role in the development of the American West during the 19th and early 20th centuries. They were primarily used for transporting goods and people up and down the river, a critical artery for accessing the remote regions of the Mojave Desert, Arizona, and southern California.

The Era of Steamboats:

Beginnings: Steamboat navigation on the Colorado River began in earnest in the 1850s. The first successful steamboat to navigate the river was the “Uncle Sam” in 1852, which marked the start of steamboat commerce until the early 1900s.
Key Ports: Important ports along the river included Yuma (Arizona Territory), which served as a central distribution point for supplies to military posts in the region, settlements, and mining operations in areas like the Gila River the Mojave Desert and upriver to places like Callville and Rioville in Nevada.
Navigation Challenges: Navigating the Colorado River was notoriously difficult due to its unpredictable water flow, shifting sandbars, and snags. Boats with shallow drafts and powerful engines were necessary to handle these obstacles.

Impact and Decline:

Economic Impact: Steamboats on the Colorado River were crucial for the economy, particularly in supporting mining operations. They transported silver, gold ore, other minerals, and goods and supplies to isolated settlements.
Decline: The arrival of railroads in the late 19th century gradually led to the decline of steamboat traffic on the river. Railroads provided a more reliable and quicker means of transportation and could operate year-round without being affected by the river’s water levels.

The Explorer (colorized)

Legacy:

The steamboats of the Colorado River are an essential part of the history of transportation and commerce in the American Southwest. They contributed to the region’s economic development and helped shape the settlements along the river. Today, they are remembered through historical markers, museum exhibits, and river tours that explore their history.

Steamboats represent a fascinating chapter in the history of the American West, highlighting the adaptability and ingenuity required to tame such a challenging and vital waterway.