Historical Sites

#5 – Mojave National Preserve: A Vast Desert Wilderness

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The Mojave National Preserve, encompassing over 1.6 million acres, offers diverse landscapes, wildlife, and recreational activities. Located in southeastern California, the preserve is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers. Here’s an expanded look at what makes the Mojave National Preserve a popular destination:

Key Features and Attractions

Kelso Dunes:
- Dune Field: Covering over 45 square miles, the Kelso Dunes are some of the tallest dunes in North America, with the highest peak rising about 650 feet.
- Hiking and Exploration: Visitors can hike to the top of the dunes for panoramic views and experience the phenomenon of “singing sands,” a booming sound produced by the movement of the sand.
- Sunset Views: The dunes are stunning at sunset when the shifting light creates dramatic shadows and colors.
Hole-in-the-Wall:
- Geological Features: This area is named for its unique rock formations created by volcanic activity and erosion. The walls are filled with holes and cavities, giving the area its distinctive appearance.
- Rings Loop Trail: A popular 1.5-mile loop trail that features metal rings bolted into the rock to help hikers navigate steep sections of the trail. The trail offers a close-up view of the fascinating rock formations.
- Visitor Center: The Hole-in-the-Wall Information Center provides exhibits on the area’s geology, wildlife, and cultural history.
Cinder Cone Lava Beds:
- Volcanic Landscape: This area features ancient volcanic cones, lava flows, and craters, offering a rugged and dramatic landscape.
- Hiking Trails: Trails wind through the lava beds, providing opportunities to explore the unique terrain and view the surrounding desert.
Mitchell Caverns:
- Limestone Caves: Located in the Providence Mountains State Recreation Area, these caverns are filled with stalactites, stalagmites, and other fascinating formations.
- Guided Tours: The only way to explore the caverns is through guided tours offered by California State Parks, which provide insights into the caves’ geological history and natural features.
Mojave Road:
- Historic Route: The Mojave Road is a historic 140-mile off-road trail that follows a route used by Native Americans, early explorers, and settlers. It provides a challenging and adventurous way to experience the preserve.
- Landmarks: Along the route, travelers can see historic sites, old military forts, and natural landmarks. The route requires a high-clearance 4WD vehicle and careful planning.

Wildlife and Plant Life

Desert Flora: The preserve has various desert plants, including Joshua trees, creosote bushes, cacti, and wildflowers. Springtime can bring vibrant blooms, adding color to the landscape.
Wildlife: The preserve’s diverse habitats support a wide range of wildlife, including bighorn sheep, coyotes, desert tortoises, and numerous bird species. The varying elevations and environments within the preserve create unique ecosystems.

Recreational Activities

Hiking:
- Diverse Trails: The preserve offers a range of hiking trails, from short nature walks to strenuous backcountry routes. Trails provide opportunities to explore the varied landscapes and observe the native flora and fauna.
- Backpacking: For those seeking a more immersive experience, the preserve offers backcountry camping and backpacking opportunities. Permits are required for overnight stays.
Camping:
- Developed Campgrounds: The preserve has several developed campgrounds, including Hole-in-the-Wall and Mid Hills, which offer amenities such as picnic tables, fire rings, and restrooms.
- Dispersed Camping: For a more primitive experience, visitors can camp in designated areas throughout the preserve. Dispersed camping allows for solitude and a closer connection with nature.
Stargazing:
- Dark Skies: The remote location of the preserve provides excellent conditions for stargazing. The lack of light pollution allows for clear views of the night sky, making it a perfect spot for observing stars, planets, and meteor showers.
Bird Watching:
- Diverse Bird Species: The varied habitats within the preserve attract a wide range of bird species, making it a popular destination for bird watchers. Seasonal migrations and diverse environments provide opportunities to see both resident and migratory birds.
Off-Roading:
- Designated Routes: The preserve has numerous designated off-road vehicle routes, offering adventurous ways to explore the rugged terrain. It’s important to stay on designated routes to protect the environment and adhere to regulations.

Historical and Cultural Sites

Kelso Depot: A restored 1924 Union Pacific train depot now serving as the preserve’s visitor center. The depot features exhibits on the history of the railroad, mining, and desert communities.
Rock Springs Land and Cattle Company: Historical ranch buildings and corrals that provide a glimpse into the ranching history of the area.

Conservation and Preservation

Protected Area: The Mojave National Preserve is managed by the National Park Service, protecting its unique landscapes, wildlife, and cultural resources.
Leave No Trace: Visitors are encouraged to practice Leave No Trace principles, minimizing their impact on the environment and helping to preserve the preserve’s natural beauty and integrity.

Visitor Information

Accessibility: The preserve is accessible via Interstate 15 and Interstate 40, with several entry points and visitor centers providing information and resources.
Seasonal Considerations: The best times to visit are spring and fall when temperatures are moderate. Summer temperatures can be extreme, and winter can bring cold nights and occasional snow at higher elevations.

The Mojave National Preserve offers a diverse and captivating landscape with countless opportunities for exploration and adventure. Whether hiking through rugged canyons, climbing towering dunes, or simply soaking in the vast desert vistas, the preserve provides a memorable and enriching experience for all who visit.

#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.

Boron Related Index

Boron, California

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In the Spring of 1925, William M. Dowsing and J. L. Hannan discovered a huge deposit 120 feet (37 m) thick just 1 1/2 miles west of Suckow’s shaft, which they …

Boron Cemetery – Mojave desert photo tour

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Virtual tour of graveyard in boron california.

Kramer Junction (Four Corners) Mojave High Desert

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3) Go west on State Route 58 through Boron, Mojave, or California City and up to Tehachapi and over the Southern Sierra. 4) Go east to Barstow. There is …

Heritage of the Upper Mojave Desert

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Boron. What was formerly Amargo is the community of Boron today. When a camp was created for mining employees,…

Boron and Copper Discoveries

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The Copper World Mine, discovered in 1869, was systematically mined in 1898. Ore was smelted west of the mine at Valley Wells. After reduction at the …

Antelope Valley

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This valley is one of nine in California with the same name. This valley sweeps across the western Mojave high desert and includes the communities of Lancaster, …

What is Borax? – Notes

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Sep 27, 2023 … Chemical Composition: Borax is an inorganic compound comprising sodium, boron, oxygen, and water molecules. Its chemical formula is Na2B4O7· …

Mojave, California

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The population was 3,836 at the 2000 census. The town is located at the northwestern corner of the Mojave Desert, below the Oak Creek Pass. Mojave, Ca …

20 Mule Team Mule Skinner

digital-desert.com › death-valley-history › skinner

Boron California. [19][20] The first post office at Boron opened in 1938. History of Borax Mining in … The Twenty Mule Teams hauled more than 20 million …

KRAMER DISTRICT

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Desert Fever – Kern County: Kramer District. This district, located some 30 miles east of Mojave, contains the most important source of borax and borate …

Highway 58

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State Highway 58 (SR 58) in California, which traverses the Mojave Desert, passes through a range of interesting and diverse points of interest. Here’s a look …

Covered Wagon (prairie schooner)

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Covered wagons significantly impacted the United States’ westward expansion during the 18th and 19th centuries. These wagons, often called “prairie schooners,” were designed to transport goods and settlers across the North American continent.

Family & covered wagon (prairie schooner)

Key features and uses of covered wagons included:

Design: Covered wagons typically had a wooden frame with a canvas cover. This cover protected the contents from weather elements like rain and sun. The wagon bed was usually made of wood and was about four feet wide by ten feet long.
Cover: The cover was made of canvas or similar durable cloth, stretched over hooped frames, providing shelter and goods for the occupants.
Wheels: The wheels were often large and designed to handle rough terrain. The front wheels were usually smaller than the rear wheels, allowing easier turning.
Draft Animals: Oxen, mules, or horses were commonly used to pull these wagons. Oxen were preferred for their strength and endurance, especially over long distances.
Role in Expansion: Covered wagons were essential for westward migration in the U.S. They carried settlers’ belongings, including tools, food, and sometimes even passengers. These wagons were a vital part of the movement to settle the American West and were commonly seen on trails like the Oregon Trail, the Santa Fe Trail, and the California Trail.
Living Quarters: The covered wagon was a temporary home for many settlers traveling west. Families would cook, eat, sleep, and spend much of their time in or around the wagon during their journey.
Historical Significance: The image of a covered wagon crossing the plains has become an iconic symbol of American frontier life, representing the pioneer spirit, exploration, and the challenges of frontier life.

The use of covered wagons declined with the advent of railroads, which offered a faster and more efficient means of transporting goods and people across the country. However, their legacy remains an integral part of American history and folklore.

The Curse of Bodie

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The Curse of Bodie is a legend that suggests the town of Bodie, particularly its well-preserved buildings and artifacts, is cursed. This legend is not uncommon in ghost towns and adds to the town’s mystique. Here are the key elements of the Curse of Bodie legend:

Taking Artifacts: According to the legend, the curse affects those who take artifacts, items, or souvenirs from Bodie Ghost Town without proper permission. This includes visitors who remove historical objects from the town as keepsakes.
Misfortune and Bad Luck: Those who are believed to have taken items from Bodie may experience a series of misfortunes and bad luck in their lives. The curse brings financial troubles, health problems, or other unfortunate circumstances to those who have taken something from the town.
Returning Stolen Items: Some versions of the legend suggest that the curse can be lifted or mitigated by returning the stolen item to Bodie. Restoring the item to its rightful place is believed to break the curse and avoid further misfortune.
Mail-Back Items: Over the years, there have been reports of people mailing stolen artifacts or items back to Bodie, accompanied by letters expressing remorse for taking them and hoping to undo the curse. These returned items are often referred to as “Ghost Town Mail.”
Warnings and Signs: Bodie’s visitor center and park rangers often display warnings and signs advising visitors not to take anything from the town, emphasizing the belief in the curse and the importance of preserving the site’s historical integrity.
Cultural Preservation: The legend of the curse serves as a reminder of the importance of preserving historical and cultural heritage. It encourages responsible tourism and respect for the historical significance of Bodie Ghost Town.

It’s important to note that the Curse of Bodie is part of the folklore and mystique surrounding the town, and there is no scientific evidence to confirm the existence of such a curse. Nevertheless, the legend has become a cultural phenomenon associated with Bodie, and many visitors are aware of it. As a result, most people who visit Bodie today respect its historical artifacts and refrain from taking items as souvenirs, contributing to the ongoing preservation of the site.

/bodie-ghost-town/

Ghost Towns & Gold Mines

Ghost Towns, Sites, and Gold and Silver Mines in the Mojave Desert

The Mojave Desert is known for its rich history of mining and the presence of ghost towns and abandoned mines. Here are some notable ghost towns, sites, and gold and silver mines in the Mojave Desert:

Calico Ghost Town: Located near Barstow, California, Calico is one of the most famous ghost towns in the Mojave Desert. It was a thriving silver mining town in the late 1800s but became abandoned when the silver market declined. Today, it’s a well-preserved tourist attraction.
Rhyolite, Nevada: Rhyolite was once a booming gold mining town in the early 1900s. It had over 5,000 people but was quickly abandoned when the mines played out. You can visit the remains of the town and see the famous “Bottle House” made of glass bottles.
Goldfield, Nevada: Goldfield was another prosperous gold mining town in Nevada. It had a peak population of around 20,000 people in the early 1900s. The Goldfield Hotel and several historic buildings still stand today.
Panamint City, California: This remote ghost town in Death Valley National Park was a silver mining town in the late 1800s. It’s accessible via a challenging hike and offers stunning views of the surrounding desert.
Cerro Gordo, California: Cerro Gordo is an old silver mining town still privately owned. It’s located in the Inyo Mountains and has a well-preserved ghost town, including a general store, bunkhouse, and other structures.
Mines in the Mojave Desert: The Mojave Desert is home to numerous gold and silver mines, many of which are abandoned. These mines contributed to the region’s mining history. Some notable mines include the Tonopah-Belmont Mine, the Desert Queen Mine, and the Goldstone Mine.

Remember that exploring abandoned mines can be dangerous due to unstable structures and the presence of toxic gases. It’s essential to exercise caution and, if needed, seek permission or guidance from local authorities or landowners when visiting these sites. Additionally, some ghost towns and mines may be on private property, so be respectful of any access restrictions.

Mojave Desert Human (Historical) Geography

Mojave Desert Geography

A long interaction history between people and the challenging desert environment marks the human (historical) geography of the Mojave Desert. Here are key aspects of the human history and settlement patterns in the Mojave Desert:

Indigenous Peoples:
- Before European contact, various indigenous groups inhabited the Mojave Desert, including the Mojave, Chemehuevi, and Serrano peoples.
- These groups adapted to the arid environment, relying on hunting, gathering, and seasonal migrations to exploit available resources.
Spanish Exploration and Missionaries:
- Spanish explorers and missionaries, including Francisco Garces and Juan Bautista de Anza, ventured into the Mojave Desert in the 18th century.
- These explorers sought routes to link Spanish missions in California and establish trade connections.
Old Spanish Trail:
- The Old Spanish Trail, a trade route connecting Santa Fe, New Mexico, to California, passed through the Mojave Desert in the early 19th century.
- This trail facilitated the exchange of goods and cultural interactions between Spanish settlers and indigenous groups.
American Pioneers and Westward Expansion:
- During the 19th century, American pioneers and settlers ventured into the Mojave Desert as part of westward expansion.
- The discovery of gold and other minerals in the region, such as the Calico Mountains, led to mining booms and the establishment of mining towns.
19th Century Military:
Railroads and Transportation:
- The construction of railroads, such as the Southern Pacific Railroad, was crucial in connecting the Mojave Desert to the broader transportation network.
- Railroad towns, including Barstow, developed as important transportation hubs.
Mining and Boomtowns:
- Mining activities, particularly for silver and borax, flourished in the late 19th and early 20th centuries.
- Boomtowns like Calico, once a significant silver mining town, experienced periods of rapid growth and decline.
Military Presence:
- The Mojave Desert has been home to various military installations, including Edwards Air Force Base and the Naval Air Weapons Station China Lake.
- These installations have played roles in aviation testing, research, and training.
Route 66:
- The historic Route 66, a major U.S. highway, passed through the Mojave Desert during the mid-20th century, bringing increased traffic, commerce, and tourism to the region.
National Parks and Conservation Efforts:
- Establishing national parks and preserves, such as Joshua Tree National Park and the Mojave National Preserve, reflects efforts to conserve the desert’s unique ecosystems and landscapes.
Modern Urbanization and Recreation:
- Urban areas on the periphery of the Mojave Desert, such as Las Vegas, have experienced rapid growth.
- The desert attracts tourists and outdoor enthusiasts interested in hiking, rock climbing, and stargazing.

Understanding the human history of the Mojave Desert involves recognizing the diverse ways different groups have interacted with the desert environment over time, from indigenous peoples adapting to the harsh conditions to the various waves of exploration, settlement, and economic activities that have shaped the region.

Barstow Index

Barstow California Area

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Barstow Area. Barstow lies in the intersection of the three largest ecosubsections in the Mojave Desert; High Desert Plains & Hills (322Ag), Mojave Valley – …

Barstow, California

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Barstow 1890. Barstow is situated at the junction of the California Southern and the A. &. P. Railway, eighty-two miles from San Bernardino and twelve miles …

Kramer Junction (Four Corners) Mojave High Desert

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3) Go west on the State Route 58 through Boron, Mojave or California City and up to Tehachapi and over the Southern Sierra. 4) Go east to Barstow. There is food …

Vanyume Indians

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Mojave Desert Indians – Map. Vanyume Indians. The Vanyume or Beñemé, as Father Garces called them, lived beyond and along much of the length of the Mojave …

Casa del Desierto

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Casa del Desierto – Harvey House. Barstow Harvey House and train station photo – Casa del Desierto Casa del Desierto: The Spanish for “House of the Desert” In …

Barstow, California – Notes

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Nov 4, 2023 … Today, it remains an essential point of access and commerce for those traveling through the Mojave Desert in Southern California. Post Views: 12.

Goldstone, Barstow California, Mojave Desert

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Goldstone Ghost Town. More of a site than a ghost town, there are only a few scattered foundations and some rubble to be found. The area is now home to NASA’s …

History of Barstow the National Old Trails Road and Route 66

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The Barstow yards are used jointly by the Santa Fe and Union Pacific and handily very considerable volume of the transcontinental traffic. Hence the railroad …

Barstow, Ca Historic Photos

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Burton Frasher photos of Barstow, California.

Ghost Towns & Sites in the Mojave Desert

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The Mojave Desert in the southwestern United States is home to several ghost towns and abandoned sites that reflect the region’s history of mining, ranching, and other activities.

Here are some notable examples:

Calico Ghost Town:
- Located near Barstow, California, Calico is one of the most famous ghost towns in the Mojave Desert. It was a silver mining town in the 1880s and 1890s. Today, Calico is a county park and tourist attraction with preserved buildings and mining equipment.
Rhyolite:
- Near Death Valley in Nevada, Rhyolite was a bustling gold mining town in the early 20th century. It had a population of several thousand people at its peak. The town had schools, banks, and even an opera house. However, it declined rapidly, and now visitors can explore the ruins of its former glory.
Ballarat:
- In California near the Panamint Mountains, Ballarat was a supply town for the nearby mines in the early 20th century. It is known for its association with the infamous outlaw Charles Manson, who briefly stayed in the area.
Bodie:
- Although technically not in the Mojave Desert (in the Eastern Sierra region), Bodie is worth mentioning. This well-preserved ghost town was a gold mining boomtown in the late 19th century. It’s now a state park; visitors can explore the abandoned buildings and artifacts.
Panamint City:
- Nestled in the Panamint Range of California, Panamint City was a silver mining town that thrived in the late 19th century. The town’s remote location contributed to its decline and was abandoned by the early 20th century. The site is accessible by hiking, and some structures remain.
Cima:
- Cima is a small ghost town in the Mojave National Preserve in California. It was a mining and railroad town in the early 20th century. While most of the buildings are gone, the area still has some remnants of its past.
Ivanpah:
- Ivanpah, located in California, was a mining town that saw activity in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Today, only a few structures remain, including stamp mill ruins.

Building in Cima ghost town in Mojave Preserve — Cima Ghost Town

Exploring these ghost towns and abandoned sites provides a fascinating glimpse into the history of the Mojave Desert and the people who once inhabited these remote areas. Keep in mind that some of these sites may be on private land or protected areas, so it’s essential to respect any restrictions and regulations in place.

Leadfield

Leadfield Ghost Town, Death Valley

“Leadfield’s legacy is the road through T itus Canyon. A narrow, twisting canyon that would have been avoided by road builders any other time, but the reports of potential riches were too appealing. . . .