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My girlfriend and I set out early, and after a scenic two-hour drive, we arrived at the foot of a towering mountain with ‘CALICO‘ boldly spelled across it. The adventure into the past had begun.
Upon arriving, we were greeted by the charming main street lined with historical buildings that have stood the test of time. Calico Ghost Town, once a thriving silver mining town founded in 1881, has transformed into a living history museum. It boomed during the late 1800s, producing over $86 million in silver and $45 million in borax.
However, the silver market crashed by the early 1900s, leading to the town’s decline. In the 1950s, Walter Knott, the founder of Knott’s Berry Farm, acquired the site and began restoring the buildings, turning Calico into the historic attraction it is today.
As we delved deeper into the town, the layers of history began to reveal themselves. Every step along the weathered streets and past the storied buildings felt like stepping back into a time when the promise of riches lured dreamers to the rugged desert.
Uncovering the Secrets of Calico Ghost Town
Before exploring the main attractions, we wandered through the town, taking in its nostalgic charm.
The warm sun cast a golden glow on the weathered structures, each one whispering stories of the past.
We strolled along the wooden boardwalks, pausing to admire the architecture that had once housed miners and their families.
Every building had its own story to tell—from the Calico Jail, where mischief-makers spent the night, to the Calico Barbershop and Bath House, reflecting daily life in the 1800s.
We also came across the unique Calico Bottle House, crafted entirely from discarded bottles, and the Calico Candle Company, nestled amidst the town’s rich history.
At the Lucy Lane Museum, we explored artifacts, photographs, and documents detailing the origins of Calico.
The exhibits painted a vivid picture of the town’s former bustling life, offering a glimpse into what it once meant to live and work in this rugged environment.
From old mining tools and personal belongings of the residents to photographs that captured the town in its heyday, each piece told a story of resilience and survival.
The harsh desert surroundings were no match for the determination of the miners who once called this place home, as they worked tirelessly to extract precious silver from the unforgiving earth.
The museum served as a powerful reminder of the sacrifices made and the lives built in pursuit of fortune during Calico’s boom years.
Into the Depths: Journey Through Maggie Mine
After taking in the town’s rich history, we headed over to the Maggie Mine, an authentic silver mine from the 1880s.
The entrance loomed ahead, beckoning us into the depths of history. As we stepped inside, we were greeted by a cool breeze that contrasted sharply with the warmth of the sun outside.
Our exploration began with a UV light showcase that illuminated the rocks and minerals, giving us a glimpse into the miners’ lives and the valuable resources they extracted from deep within the earth.
The mine was filled with various exhibits and historical displays that highlighted the tools and techniques used during the mining era.
The stories told through these artifacts added a layer of depth to our understanding of what life must have been like for those who worked here.
It turns out that these miners relied on their instincts and experience. Many would have noticed the telltale signs of silver in the surrounding rock, like certain colors or textures, which would prompt them to dig deeper.
Sometimes, they stumbled upon silver veins while looking for other minerals, turning chance encounters into significant discoveries.
As we navigated the cool tunnels, the stories of those brave souls came alive, illustrating the risks and rewards of mining in such a harsh environment.
Riding the Rails of History
After immersing ourselves in the history of the mine, we hopped on the Calico Odessa Railroad for a delightful ride around the outskirts of the ghost town.
This charming train mirrors those used during the mining era, taking visitors on an approximate eight-minute journey that showcases the fascinating history of the area.
As the train chugged along, it wound around the hill, revealing remnants of miners’ cabins and the impressive Coroner Monument.
The audio tour provided engaging commentary on the various historical sites we passed, including the Silver King Mine remnants and the unique periscope ore crusher.
The train also offered views of the waterfall boilers, once vital to the mining operations, as well as insights into the daily lives of the miners who called Calico home.
The gentle sway of the train and the stunning landscapes made for a relaxing experience that was both educational and entertaining for the whole family.
Striking Gold: Hands-On Panning Experience
No visit to a ghost town is complete without a taste of adventure, so we eagerly dove into the gold panning experience.
After a brief yet informative demonstration, it was time to channel our inner prospectors and search for our own treasures.
With pans in hand, we began sifting through the materials, meticulously following the technique shown to us.
The thrill of the hunt filled the air, mingling with the sounds of splashing water and laughter.
Participating in this age-old practice and connecting with the miners who once sought their fortunes in the same way brings a unique satisfaction.
A Stop at Calico House Restaurant
After a full day of exploring, we made our way to the Calico House Restaurant, our final stop.
The vintage atmosphere inside provided the perfect backdrop to reflect on the day.
We settled in for some hot dogs and beers, feeling content after a day filled with adventure and discovery.
“As we settled into our seats at the Calico House Restaurant, the ambiance wrapped around us like a warm embrace. The vintage decor and soft chatter created a cozy atmosphere, perfect for unwinding after a day full of exploration. With our beers in hand and the view of the Odessa Railroad and the majestic mountains stretching out before us, a sense of satisfaction washed over me. The vibrant colors of the sunset painted the landscape, highlighting the beauty of the place we had just discovered together. Every detail of the day—the sights we had seen, the stories we had uncovered, and the laughter we had shared—felt like a rewarding culmination of our adventure.”
Calico House isn’t just a restaurant; it specializes in hearty meals reminiscent of the town’s past.
The menu is a delightful blend of comfort food, from classic pot pies and shepherd’s pie to their renowned Buffalo Burger.
Wrapping Up Our Adventure
Before leaving, we took one last stroll through the town, the evening light casting long shadows across the dusty streets.
The combination of original structures, informative replicas, and quaint gift shops created an enjoyable atmosphere. Each corner offers a glimpse into the past.
Stopping by Calico Ghost Town is also a great pit stop if visiting Lake Arrowhead since it’s already on the way there and can be a great addition to a Death Valley Trip.
“Calico Ghost Town is not just a destination; it’s a journey into history that’s well worth the trip. As we headed back to the car, I glanced back at the majestic mountain and the little town nestled at its base, knowing that we’d made memories to last a lifetime.”
For families and history enthusiasts alike, Calico offers an unforgettable journey into the past.
From exploring the old buildings and learning about the silver mining era to soaking in the natural beauty of the landscape, there’s something for everyone here.
The ghost town invites you to step back in time and experience the adventures and stories of its rich history.
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