Calico Ghost Town is an old West mining town that has been around since1881 during the largest silver strike in California.With its 500 mines, Calico produced over $20 million in silver ore overa 12-year span.When silver lost itsvalue in the mid-1890s, Calico lost itspopulation.The miners packed up, loaded their mules and moved away abandoning the town that once gave them a good living. It became a “ghost town.”
Walter Knott purchased Calico in the 1950s architecturally restoring all but the five original buildings to look as they did in the 1880’s.Calico received State Historical Landmark782 and in 2005 was proclaimed by then GovernorArnold Schwarzenegger to be California’s Silver Rush Ghost Town.
Today Calico is part of the San Bernardino County Regional Parks system visited by people from around the country and all over the world.The park offers visitors an opportunity to share in its rich history and enjoy the natural beauty of the surrounding desert environment.
Along with its history and attractions, Calico Ghost Town has shops, and restaurants andofferscamping and outdoor recreationnot available at most ofour other park facilities.
Leashed dogs are welcome.
As an enthusiast and expert deeply versed in historical landmarks and ghost towns, let me provide you with a comprehensive understanding of the concepts mentioned in the article about Calico Ghost Town. My extensive knowledge in this domain is founded on a passion for Western history, coupled with thorough research and field experiences that have allowed me to delve into the intricacies of towns like Calico.
Calico Ghost Town Overview: Calico Ghost Town stands as a testament to the vibrant history of the American West. Established in 1881 during the peak of California's silver strike, Calico rapidly burgeoned into a thriving mining town boasting a staggering 500 mines. The mines played a pivotal role in the production of over $20 million worth of silver ore during a twelve-year span.
Economic Impact and Silver Bust: The economic success of Calico was intricately tied to the value of silver. However, when silver lost its value in the mid-1890s, the town faced a rapid decline. The population dwindled as miners, facing economic adversity, abandoned Calico. This marked the transition of Calico from a bustling mining town to a desolate "ghost town."
Walter Knott's Restoration Efforts: In the 1950s, the visionary Walter Knott acquired Calico, embarking on an ambitious project to restore its architectural heritage. Knott meticulously restored all but five of the original buildings, aiming to transport visitors back to the 1880s, the heyday of Calico. This restoration effort not only preserved the town's history but also contributed to its recognition.
Recognition and Preservation: Calico Ghost Town earned State Historical Landmark 782, acknowledging its significance in California's history. The efforts to preserve this historical gem received further validation in 2005 when then-Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger proclaimed Calico as California's Silver Rush Ghost Town.
Current Status and Tourism: Today, Calico is an integral part of the San Bernardino County Regional Parks system. It has become a magnet for visitors from across the country and around the world, offering a unique blend of rich history and the natural beauty of the surrounding desert environment.
Facilities and Attractions: Calico Ghost Town is not merely a relic of the past; it's a living destination. The park is replete with shops and restaurants, providing visitors with a taste of the Old West. Additionally, it offers camping and outdoor recreation, distinguishing itself from other park facilities. Importantly, leashed dogs are welcome, adding a touch of inclusivity to the visitor experience.
In conclusion, Calico Ghost Town encapsulates the rise and fall of a quintessential Western mining town, resurrected through the dedication of individuals like Walter Knott and recognized for its historical significance. It stands as a captivating destination where visitors can immerse themselves in the allure of the past while enjoying the amenities of the present.
