31 Ghost Towns in America That Are Hauntingly Frozen in Time

12. Calico, California: A Silver Rush Relic

Calico, California, is a ghost town that stands as a relic of the silver rush era. Founded in 1881 in the Mojave Desert, Calico quickly became a bustling mining town with a population of over 1,200. The town's mines produced millions of dollars' worth of silver, but as the price of silver fell in the late 19th century, Calico's fortunes declined, and the town was largely abandoned. Today, Calico is preserved as a county park, with its historic buildings and scenic location attracting visitors from around the world. The town's well-preserved structures, including the schoolhouse and the general store, offer a glimpse into the challenges of frontier life. Calico's story is one of ambition, adversity, and the enduring allure of the American West. As a silver rush relic, Calico offers a unique window into the past and the rugged beauty of California's desert frontier.