Tag: Mining Camps

#10 – Calico Ghost Town: A Historical Adventure

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Calico – May/2000

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

  1. 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.
  2. 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.
  3. 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.
  4. 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.
  5. 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.

Barstow Area Mining

The history of mining in the Barstow area is closely tied to the extraction of various minerals and resources that played a significant role in the development of Southern California. Here’s a more detailed look at the history of mining in the Barstow area:

  1. Borax Mining: Borax mining was one of the earliest mining activities in the Barstow region. In the late 19th century, borax deposits, a valuable industrial mineral used in various applications, were discovered in the nearby Calico Mountains. The Pacific Coast Borax Company, owned by Francis Marion “Borax” Smith, was instrumental in developing borax mines in the area. This marked the beginning of significant mining operations in the region, with borax being a primary focus.
  2. Calico Mining District: The Calico Mining District, which includes the town of Calico, was a major center of mining activity in the Barstow area. Silver and silver-lead ores were the primary resources mined in this district. At its peak in the late 1800s, Calico had a population of over 3,000 people and was a bustling mining town.
  3. Calico Ghost Town: Calico, often referred to as Calico Ghost Town today, was once a thriving mining town. It featured numerous mines, including the Bismarck, Silver King, and Oriental Mines. Visitors to Calico can explore the well-preserved historic buildings, mines, and artifacts, gaining insight into the region’s mining history.
  4. Railroad Transportation: The expansion of railroads played a crucial role in facilitating the transportation of mined materials from the Barstow area to other parts of California and beyond. The Atchison, Topeka, and Santa Fe Railway was a key transportation link for the mining industry, enabling the efficient movement of ores and minerals.
  5. Variety of Minerals: While borax, silver, and silver-lead ores were among the most significant resources mined in the Barstow area, various other minerals were also extracted. These included gypsum, limestone, and barite. These minerals had industrial applications and were important for construction and manufacturing.
  6. Decline of Mining: As the easily accessible mineral deposits were depleted, mining activities in the Barstow area began to decline. Many mines were abandoned, and mining communities saw a decrease in population. The shift in economic focus led to the decline of mining as a major industry in the region.

Today, the mining history of the Barstow area is preserved through places like Calico Ghost Town, museums, and historical sites. These serve as reminders of the pioneering spirit of early miners and the role mining played in shaping the history of Barstow and the surrounding region.

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