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Daggett, California
Daggett Depot
History of Daggett, California
Daggett, California, is a small unincorporated community located in the Mojave Desert, in San Bernardino County. With a rich history dating back to the 1880s, Daggett has played a significant role in the development of the region.The town was named after John Daggett, a prominent businessman and politician in the late 19th century. In 1882, the Southern Pacific Railroad built a station in Daggett, which became an important stop along the railroad route. This led to the town's growth as it served as a transportation hub for the nearby mining communities.
Daggett saw a boom in population and economic activity during the late 1800s due to the discovery of gold and silver in the nearby Calico Mountains. The town became a bustling center for mining operations, attracting prospectors and entrepreneurs from all over. Several mines were established in the area, and the town thrived as a supply and distribution center for the mining industry.
In addition to mining, Daggett played a vital role in the Mojave Desert railroad system. The town became a major regional depot. This allowed goods, people, and resources to be transported, contributing to Daggett's growth and prosperity. In 1888, railroad operations moved to Barstow, a major blow to the local economy.
Daggett's population dwindled as the mining industry declined in the early 20th century. Many mines were exhausted, and the town's economic significance diminished. Despite this decline, Daggett survived as a residential community with a small but dedicated population.
Today, Daggett retains its historical charm, reminding us of its vibrant past. The town has local businesses, residences, and historical landmarks. Visitors can explore the Daggett Pioneer Cemetery, which holds early settlers' graves, or visit the Daggett Garage and the local museum.
In conclusion, Daggett, California, has a fascinating history that dates back to the 1880s. From its early days as a mining town and transportation hub to its present-day existence as a residential community, Daggett has experienced ups and downs throughout the years. Despite its small size, the town remains an important part of the region's history and continues to preserve its rich heritage.
National Old Trails
Route 66
Southern Pacific
Santa Fe
Borax
Chronology
Pre-1880s: Early Mojave Desert Development1776: Father Francisco Garces documents the Mojave River area and its indigenous rancherias.
Pre-1880s: Early Mojave Desert Development
1776: Father Francisco Garces documents the Mojave River area and its indigenous rancherias.
1859: The Mojave Road is established, linking Fort Mojave to Los Angeles.
1870s: Mining activities increase in the Mojave Desert, with early exploration in the Calico Hills.
1880s: Founding and Early Growth
1882: Southern Pacific Railroad extends a line from Mojave to the Colorado River; Daggett is established as a transportation hub.
1883: The Stone Hotel is constructed by Victor Van Briesen as a two-story building with thick stone walls and a glass dome.
1885: Seymour Alf purchases the hotel and begins operating Alf's Railroad Eating House.
1888: The Calico Railroad is completed, transporting silver ore from Calico to Daggett; Daggett becomes a bustling town with 20 saloons and significant economic activity.
1889: Francis M. "Borax" Smith shifts borax operations to the Calico Hills, discovering colemanite deposits and establishing the Pacific Coast Borax plant near Daggett.
1890s: Mining Boom and Infrastructure Development
1890: The Stone Hotel survives a fire but is significantly rebuilt with a central staircase and turret.
1893: Southern California Improvement Company begins work on the Daggett Ditch (Minneola Canal) for irrigation and hydroelectric power.
1894: Alf's Blacksmith Shop is rebuilt after a fire; it continues crafting borax wagons.
1897: The Daggett and Borate Railroad replaces 20-mule teams, connecting borax mines in Mule Canyon to Daggett.
1898: The Southern California Improvement Company goes bankrupt; plans for the Minneola farming colony fail.
1900s: Transition and Decline
1901: Theodore and Dix Van Dyke revive the Daggett Ditch project, irrigating 320 acres east of Daggett.
1907: The Daggett and Borate Railroad is decommissioned as borax operations move elsewhere.
1908: The Stone Hotel suffers another fire, leaving it as a single-story structure.
1909: Daggett begins losing prominence as Barstow develops into a major railroad hub.
1910s-1940s: Daggett's Role Diminishes
1912: Walter Alf moves Alf's Blacksmith Shop to its current location.
1924: Minneola's school district closes, marking the end of the settlement's revival efforts.
1940s: During World War II, the Daggett Garage serves as a mess hall for soldiers guarding railroad bridges.
1950s-1970s: Later Years
1950s: Fish are reported in the Daggett Ditch, still in use for limited irrigation.
1970: Walter Alf passes away, marking the end of Alf's Blacksmith Shop as an active operation.
1970s: Interstate 40 bypasses Daggett, further reducing its economic activity.
Present Day: Legacy and Preservation
The Stone Hotel, Alf's Blacksmith Shop, and remnants of the Daggett Ditch remain historical landmarks.
Daggett is recognized as an important part of Mojave Desert history, reflecting the ingenuity of early settlers and miners.
Daggett Weather
Inspection station residence - 2013
History of Daggett Garage
Daggett Garage
Daggett Ditch
Stone Hotel
Pioneer Cemetery
Minneola
Borate & Marion
Desert Market
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Alf's Blacksmith Shop
Calico Mining History
A railroad named the Borate & Daggett was laid into Mule Canyon in 1898. ...
Daggett Misc. Gallery
Trans-Mojave Desert Railroad
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Daggett. Here is an old historical town, older than Calico. In 1880 to the railroad was constructed through the community and it was named after Lieut. Gov. John L. Daggett the following year. When silver and borax mining activities ceased, it became dormant. In 1908 it was the locale for Western movies. Strategically located on Highway 66 and served by the Santa Fe and Union Pacific, it is obvious that Daggett is enjoying a surging rebirth, all the more pronounced because of the close proximity to the US Marine Corps Supply Center and the Daggett Airport.
~ Heritage of the Mojave River Valley
