Colorado Ghost Town Books/Maps
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Archives of comments dating from 2005 through December of 2009 can be found here. Ghost Towns guest book log.
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- Friday, February 03, 2012
Also,would like to express great surprise for finding pics of my hometown, Fierro!! I was born in Silver City, NM as most residents were, but grew up, went to grade school, and left when my father, Manuel G. Parra, took our family to live in Deming, NM and work the mine outside of town (Floritas mountains). My grandfather, Merced B. Campos, and grandmother, Juanita, and their 3 kids, Cruz (Cuy), Tivida Loya, and my mom Simona, all lived there for many years. Grandpa had his home right across the big open space from the cemetary, where he now rests along with grandma, and alot others including our neighbors, the Donez family. I only remember Virginia Arciero and Lupe (?) from my first grade class. We lived right on the main road where the railroad crossing was to get to the bar and the home of the Tovars. Tony and Pingua were my buddies and we played kid games all the time including throwing rocks and running on the railroad track. Ha! Chava Donez and Maria (Donez) Hernandez are still very close to us. My dad passed in 2006 and mom followed in 2011. Their eyes would always get real big if we mentioned Fierro or teased about taking a trip there. Our good friends, Felipe and Josie Garcia, from Bayard also talked endlessly of all the relatives and friends we all had there for the many years of their lives. Of course, everyone worked at Asarco or other mines in the area...Cuy eventually moved to Tucson and became a controller there. Our family ended up in Bagdad, Az after many years in Deming. The Rodriquez family and others also moved to Bagdad for work, and many moved back to the Santa Rita area after retirement. Speaking of the St. Anthony Church, I was named after it and also because I was born on June 20, close to San Antonio day. I vividly remember (circa 1952) going to mass there, the school next to it, the main store, the post office, el posito or the watering hole for our drinking water, the road past the post office where we would go into the mountains to cut old dead trees for firewood in my Uncle Cuy's Model A...Ha!! Cuy, grandpa and I would go. Cuy's wife, my Aunt, Lucriasa (Lukie), Xavier, and Jennie, my cousins would stay home. We left Fierro somewhere around 1957 for Deming, and left Deming in 1960 for Bagdad. I haven't been back since...after grandpa died, I just couldn't emotionally handle the sadness of all my childhood memories gone in the wind. I still remember the big white clouds and have never seen them anywhere again. When I die, I will stop by and visit Fierro for a minute before I make my way to Heaven and see all my loved ones again. Thanks for the pics...they touched my heart. Sincerly, Antonio (Tony) Campos Parra, oldest son of Manual and Simona Parra, brother to Samuel (Sammy) and sisters, Manuela (Mellie) and Esperanza (Hope) Parra. I can be contacted at mascotman1@yahoo.com. I currently live in Chicago, but like I said, my heart is still in Fierro, and always will be.
Saturday, January 28, 2012
Thanks for all the great posts, esp. R. Gulch and area- wonderful site!!!
Friday, January 27, 2012
I have enjoyed your website over the years. Although I was raised in Kansas, my parents were born in Colorado. We spent our summer vacations visiting relatives across Colorado, where my grandfather was a forest ranger on my mom's side of the family, and my dad's mother raised chickens near Berthoud. I inherited a love for Colorado. I even wrote a novel, MOONLIGHT ON THE MOUNTAIN, in which "Maggie escapes to an old mining town in the Colorado Rockies to rehearse her dreams of becoming a free-spirited writer." I hope to visit Colorado this summer. Research for another novel! helen.hertha@live.com
Friday, January 27, 2012
January 27, 2012: I believe the town of Exchequer(ville), above Bonanza, even had a post office from July 22, 1881 to June 6, 1883. I have been hunting for that postmark for my collection for years. Bonanza had a post office from 1880 to 1938. This wonderful website helps me make it through the winter until I can make my annual return to the "real" mountains each summer or fall and visit some of the absolutely most beautiful places in the world. Thanks Mike. An Appalachian Native, Robert Hamill hamillr@att.net
christina i grew up in hanover nm in the 1990's. we raised horses, chickens, sheep, and goats. my grandparents also grew a few crops out there. i used to love walking the trail by my house. the old barn my grandpa built in his earlier years still stands. still go over there in the summers for a good hike.
Monday, January 23, 2012
I worked in Gilman as a summer missionary in 1980. Then is was a small community atop the mountain. There were two of us who worked this area, as well as the towns of Minturn and Red Cliff. The little community of Gilman had a small playground on the top of the mountain, with the homes supported on poles, hanging halfway over the mountain. I don't remember how many balls we lost over the fence into the river 1200 feet below, but we did have a great time there. It is sad to see it now a Ghost Town.
Hello, My name is Sandra Asbury Kelly, I posted a comment a while back and I found & read it in the blog section anyway I wanted to find it again and can't. Long story short it was about the town plumber my dad in Gilman, and the school, and slide. He died Jan 15 2012 and I wanted to post a picture of him. I did not get to tell him sadly that i saw it posted he would have been proud to see his name in my article.We lived there 1963 - 1967. 5 yrs We moved in 1969 to Ariz., and he worked for Kennecott Copper after a strike three years later he moved back to Lafayette, Co & after 28 years moved back to his childhood roots in Fort Collins, I posted an obit in the Fence Post magazine. He was a pipefitter Union Member for Over 40 yars Local # 208 out of Denver, Co. Anyway I would like to print my comment from your site as a memento if you dont mind. I did not save a copy. I took care of him the last two years, he had become a legend to everyone one he knew for his being the tractor guy in later years with the overalls and trademark colorful welding caps, his favorite one had jelly beans on it, and his corny off the wall jokes, Leslie (Les ) E. Asbury April 15, 1931- January 15, 2012 In Gilman he started in the mine and not for long he moved to night watchman then mechanic in the garges, then finally the plumber in five years time.He studied welding and pipefitting at Kennecott, completed their program .He worked many jobs around the front range area during the 70 's and 80's, did mechanic work out of his home till he died, but he got his start in Gilman and I had shown him pictures of the site photos on flicker of the old furnace and he said he had to go check the furnace you had to keep coal in it, and the guy before him who took over was supposed to keep the coal bin full for the next shift but he would fall asleep and dad would come in to take over and he'd have to hurry up and get the coal so one night my dad put some rocks in there when he left and it made the guy have to go in real early and fix it. Snow six months to eight months of the year but man the pretties summer you ever saw, it was so beautiful way up that high on the mountain. we always were told as children not to go and play down by the big blower hole on the side of the mountain it was dangerous, so we were afraid of it. Again the school bell they picked a different kid every day to ring it. I'm on your email list so hope to hear soon. but just in case kelcrow182@msn.com
Monday, January 16, 2012
As I read through your Russell Gulch, Black Hawk, and other town pages and memories. I envy the people have photos of family. My grand father Mike Angelo Rosetta owned the Angelina Mine. There isn't any info on that mine I can find. Antonio Andreatta owned the Lulu mine for a while. I would like to ask if anyone know anything about the Rosetta, Hines and Andreatta family please email me : tessadri@venturecomm.net. Jacque McDonnell
Monday, January 16, 2012
There were women who worked at New Jersey Zinc Mine after 1972. There were at least 4 women. Women also worked in Climax Mine in Leadville area. Nothing much mentioned about them. Some worked there because it was better wages and they were women who had children to raise. Others wanted to do something different. What ever the reason mining was a mans world and they knew it.
Sunday, January 15, 2012
My wife and I went to Animas Forks 2 years ago. GREAT!
Sunday, January 15, 2012
WE visited this site at christmas this year when we went to Colorado to visit our daughter and grandkids.I loke you think this is the most beautiful ruins that I have ever seen. I took about 60 pictures and was amazed at every aspect of these ruins. The crazy thing in my pictures is that every picture I took of room #9 was blury as if I was told our spirits are here. Amazing is all I can say. maryc1013@gmail.com
Saturday, January 14, 2012
Hello fellow Gilman fans! I was born in Gilman in 1950 and only lived there for six months. My dad, Tom O'Neill was geologist for New Jersey Zinc there around that time until he was transferred to Spokane, WA. Does anyone remember him? I have photos of my parents at the Rod and Gun club but have never been there. scott1519@comcast.net
Saturday, January 14, 2012
My dad, Tom O'Neill was a geologist for New Jersey Zinc in Gilman from about 1948 to mis-1950.I was born in Gilman in 1950 but have no memories of it. We still have his mining helmet with the light on the front. It's wonderful hearing everyone's stories about life in Gilman. My mom kept her High Altitude Cookbook for years. I have a very nice black and white Photo of Gilman looking across a valley towards the town and mine. It was taken by Si Ostermeier probably around 1950. I've sent it to the webmaster to post. scott1519@comcast.net
Friday, January 13, 2012
Rich, Kansas City Mo, Responds to Sept. 14 2011 Russell Gulch post. The gentleman was Albert Lavata. He was my wife's step-grandfather. He was born in Russell Gulch about 1890. I am told he had four sisters and 1 brother. His father was a miner and was killed in the Glory Hole about 1900. I think the mother he spoke about was his father's second wife and his step-mother. Albert worked early in his life hauling freight from Golden to Central City by horse and wagon. He went on to a career a with the Denver School District as a boiler operator. Albert married my wife's grandmother when he was about sixty she was about forty. It was there second marriage for both of them. They lived in the area of Denver University. I still have several of Albert's tools from his boiler days. I have been to Russel Gulch a number of times and from what the family has told me about his stories of childhood Albert grew up in a house on the north side of Upper Russell Gulch Road about a half mile east of the school.
Sunday, January 08, 2012
January 8, 2012, I worked in Alma and Fairplay in 1978. The town marshall for Alma (lived in the yellow Victorian shown in the pictures of Alma), used to talk about the the front room of the house on the second floor and how cold it was. He also talked about a story of a young girl that was visiting one day and she was playing and started screaming about something she saw in the house. No one saw anything so they tried to calm her by letting her look at photo albums of the family. She came across a picture and started screaming again saying, old man in stair, old man in stair. The picture was of the grandfather who had died in the house. I can't remember the town marshal's name. Living in Alma was quite an experience with so many stories of strange events that occurred there. Loved the experience, would love to reconnect with some of the people from that time. Richneal.constpm@yahoo.com
Hi my name is Tim Davis I grew up in Boyero from the time I was born (1968) until I graduated HS (Hugo) my folks still live there I always go down most of your pictures were around my folks place but I'm always trying to find pictures of the earlier years of the buildings and more of the history have any ideas where I can find these thanks tdaviswelding87@gmail.com
I was born in Gilman Colorado in 1952, but raised in Red Cliff. Worked in the Mine from 1969-1975 during the summer and winter breaks from college. I am now a retired teacher. I have great memories of fun, hard winters,and hard work. I still go by there often. I still have family in RedCliff and Leadville. My dad was a miner for 25 years. My brothers also worked there. It was great growing up there. I attended Battle Mountain High School in Minturn, graduated in 1970. The mine provided me with the financial means to go to school. They were really good to me, allowing me to work during my vacations. Although it wasn't what I really wanted to do during my time off from school, but my goal was more important, so underground I went. I learned a lot and worked with many hard working individuals. Some whom I never learned their real name because the majority had nick names. I was trained to do many jobs. I was a miner, cager, topper, motorman, on The Main Line to the mill and in all levels. I had my scary moments, but the experience was something I will never forget. I had the worst jobs to the best jobs, worked in the heat and in the cold. The people in RedCliff and Gilman was one big family. Many are gone and have moved on. But the memories are still there. It is strange to go by Gilman, my birthplace, and now see it as a Ghost town, silent, on the side of the mountain, but for anyone that worked underground still has the memories of the trains loaded with the ore mined by the sweat of the many men who made that place come alive, the yelling of; !!! fire in the hole!!!, the old phones ringing, the hoist running, the jack hammers and jack legs working away, making a living for the miner and his family, the blasting and the smell of dynamite, yet there were times of silence and pitch darkness, taking a break, laying down on a lagen (board), asking myself, What am I doing here? But then, quickly, I remind myself, My Education!! I can still close my eyes and relive my time underground and always thanked God each day for keeping me safe. I could go on and on, but I will stop here. R Sandoval rsandoval52@yahoo.com
Friday, January 06, 2012
I was born in Gilman Colorado in 1952, but raised in Red Cliff. Worked in the Mine from 1969-1975 during the summer and winter breaks from college. I am now a retired teacher. I have great memories of fun, hard winters,and hard work. I still go by there often. I still have family in RedCliff and Leadville. My dad was a miner for 25 years. My brothers also worked there. It was great growing up there.
Friday, January 06, 2012
Well after reading this sites postings I'm coming out there. Sounds like a place I would like to see. Hope it doesn't get too popular. Bruce Hamilton, Dearborn, MI bhamilton143@gmail.com
Thursday, January 05, 2012
I lived in Sunset in 1985-1986. I lived in a cabin owned by Mike van Loon. I remember waking up one morning to find a herd of a cattle in the yard. there was also a donkey that was used for a silver mine lower down. Wonderful place, cold winters, terrible roads, almost died twice there. I live in Seattle but would love to move back, but brrrrrr too cold.
Sunday, January 01, 2012
I liked your site. The photos are neat. irbycomp@hotmail.com Danny
My family lived in Grover when I was born in 1951. My dad was Mayor and my mom City Clerk.
my husband and i lived in russell gultch back in 88-91,we lived across from the fort(Howard our friend lived in the fort at this time. In back of us to the side Robert lived. and Candy from Texas,sometimes lived in the lil red cabin,up straight behind us.Our names are Randy and Rochelle Barr..Randy was a fire fighter,and I worked at indian springs resort. we loved the gultch...had wonderful times and great memories, we partied hard and met great people
Sunday, December 18, 2011
My fiancée and I decided instead of marrying in Oklahoma, we would do it in Colorado (she having lived in Colorado Springs before). She decided on the location: Villa Grove, Colorado, where we stayed at a wonderful bed-and-breakfast. The next day, after obtaining a licence from the Saugache County Courthouse, we went to Bonanza, toured that tiny ville, then to Exchequerville, the ghost town one mile above the "City" of Bonanza. Exchequerville is a true ghost town, nothing remains but the cemetery, and a Forest Service building. On where we estimated the original main street of Exchequerville was, we married, on 7 September 2007, under the trees and mountains, with only a chipmunk for a visitor. After taking our wedding photos (she of me, me of her), we then went back down into Villa Grove, and asked the two waitresses at the restaurant (one of whom my wife knows) to witness our signatures on the licence. On the last day, we went back up the Forest Service road (in a Honda - not recommended), stopped by Exchequerville to take in the beautiful area one more time, then on to Summitville. That ghost town is where we consider having spent our honeymoon. It was also my first encounter with a bear. The bear was sitting in the middle of the Summitville Road, and refused to move just for a mere Honda. We couldn't back the Honda down the road, as it is steep, narrow, full of curves and large rocks. No room to turn around either, and we didn't want to upset the bear. We stood facing off each other for about ten minutes (with me trying not even to breathe), until the bear got bored and lumbered off. After we spent the day in Summmitville, we left via the road north out of town. When we returned the next day to Saugache to register our marriage, the County Clerk noted we had put the place as Exchequerville, and said she could not find any record of a marriage there for over a hundred years. The Saugache Crescent Newspaper (the nation's only remaining lead type newspaper) ran a wedding announcement for us, complete with listing of Exchequerville as the place we exchanged our vows, and sent us a copy of the paper in Oklahoma. Now we live in the Nebraska Panhandle, and I am itching for a trip back to that beautiful place where we were married, I just want to take something different than our Honda.
Sunday, December 18, 2011
My fiancée and I traveled to Villa Grove, Colo. from Ponca City, Okla. to marry. We chose to marry on what was (likely) the main street of the ghost town of Exchequerville, one mile from Bonanza. All that remains in Exchequerville today is the cemetary and a Forest Service building. It was beautiful and private, and the only guest was a chipmunk. The next day we left Villa Grove and took the Forest Service road out of Bonanza past Exchequerville to the ghost town of Summitville, a real trick in a Honda. That mining town where we spent our day is where we consider to have spent our honeymoon. On leaving Summitville to the north, we encountered a bear parked in the middle of the road, staring at us for about five minutes. That was my first encounter with a bear in my life, and I had no intention of moving or startling it, or even breathing if I could help it, being only about ten feet from the car when we saw it. That whole road from Bonanza to Summitville and north out is stunning scenery (except the Superfund cleanup site at Summitville). I would recommend to anyone who wishes a scenic drive that road, though in something more substantial than a Honda.
Wonderful memories of Roggen. My dad grew up there. We lived there when I was a baby. We visited our relatives (Kersen's and Linnebur's) at least once a month until we moved to Texas. I still get out there whenever I'm back in Colorado. Great site! Lynda Kersen lyndakersen@yahoo.com
Tuesday, November 29, 2011
This brings back a lot of good memories of Gilman and there was no better place to grow up at. Always go there in thoughts when thinking of being a kid. My dad Glenn Wise was a schoolteacher at the school in Minturn and live there until 1975 when we moved away. Love to share memories Randy Wise rwise777@hotmail.com
We live in south Texas but enjoy vacationing in CO. Like your interesting photos and the comments of your readers.keep up the goodnwork. Mary, Castroville, Tx
Saturday, November 12, 2011
I lived in Keota in 1944-1945. I was a freshman in the two story highschool. Mrs. E. Fae Oram was our teacher. There was 12 in high school that year. My name is Marion Cole. We lived in the parsonage that year, my dad Glen Cole drove the school bus and was janitor at the school. My uncle and aunt were Cecil and Maxine Plowman who lived on the homestead about 5 miles west of Keota. I have pictures to share of the students there at the time and noticed a message from Evelyn Stanley. I would love to hear from anyone who was there at the time. Margaret & Evelyn Stanley, Vera, Leona, Wayne Hart. Clyde & Dee Jay Shull. Kinnisons, Benners, Weiss, Rohns & others. catchone1@live.com
Thursday, November 10, 2011
My name is Ann Dunning McKenna. My father, Paul Dunning, was born in Sunset, Colorado in 1901. His father, Hugh Dunning, was mining in the area. His mother, Besse Hatch Dunning was a school teacher in the little school. My email is annmck@gmail.com
Lived in Gilman from 1959 to 1977 loved it. Worked in the mine the summer after I graduated from high school in 1977.
Hi my name is Joan A. (Boyd) Church, my Father was born in the Hugo depot in 1878 to JG Boyd or Joseph G. Boyd and Kate Boyd. I know it may seem strange, but very true. I was born late in Dads life. Granddad worked at the railroad, can anyone share something they may have Joan Church Pinehurst Id
Saturday, October 29, 2011
Excellent photos, Mike. Please keep up the good work and fine images. Look forward to exploring again with you someday. God Bless. Will Citta
Rocky Says - ME Too - Send me your email address and we will do it.
Sunday, October 23, 2011
Just wanted to say Rocky, what a Great Job and Wonderful website, I am Missourian and Colorado is my favorite State. And I just Love and Enjoy your Colorado material and Ghost towns of Colorado.... As Always keep Up with the Great Job Rocky!! I look forward in reading all your New updates and Etc... From a Fellow Ghost Towner here in MO. Thanks, Chris Cooper @ cooperhill1856@comcast.net
Sunday, October 23, 2011
That is a Ghost of a story. Sure makes for great reading. Somewhat exaggerated, but good reading and who doesn't like to be the topic of the day! Thanks for the great time. Dawn
Rocky Responds - Okay Dawn admit it is true.... The great mud bog incident.
Friday, October 21, 2011
Hi.... I am new to the Denver area... I am doing a report on Gillman, but I am having a hard time finding info...Did the EPA maken the residents leave.... need lots of info... email me if you have info plplayboybunny23@aim.com
What a wonderful family connection you have with Winfield! Roots like that are rare and special. May you and yours always have that connection... Don & Bobbe
Paradox and Bedrock are interesting towns. This is a version of the story of the Cashin mine is about Slim Hecox, a watchman that was known to carry money. He was killed at the mine and he was beheaded. he was found after a few days and buried. they captured the killers and found his head and dug up the body and put his head in the short casket and reburied him.
Wednesday, October 12, 2011
I hope to visit the Ludlow Massacre Memorial on a visit to Taos, I live in Canon City and it is a chore to find anything written about the us labor movement, its importance to our society-generally it has been written out of most current us history books or trivialized.
Tuesday, October 11, 2011
my great grandparts were born in kelly NM last name sanchez and baca my grandfathers name was florentino sanchez he was born march 5 1876 he died may29th 1942 married my great grandma thomasita bacca she was born march 1 1880 she died june 23 1952 in berkely ca they had a son josph sanchez and a sister i dont know her name hoping i may find family e-mail me. weavingsanchez@yahoo.com
Friday, September 30, 2011
My family had move to Blackhawk in 1969,I was in the sixth grade my brothers were younger we to school at Clark elementary. The next year I went to Clear Creek High In Idhoa Springs yes it was a fun place to be a teenager we Live in Blackhwak Trailer Park it was on maaine accross from the Lace House and the Gilpin Hotel. My parents manage the trailer oark. My Step father work for the Opera House Assoiation, My mother and I worked in the summer for tree summers. I have a lot of memories of the opera house and Teller House Hotel, some of homes the that they used for apartments for the actors. The winters were ghost towns but in the summer with all the tourist it came a live, thanks for this website. hfolley@sbcglobal.net
Thursday, September 29, 2011
very cool site. i'm from gypsum, colorado and i love looking back into the history of colorado. i miss it now, but come home a few times a year, especially for Christmas. That's when we go snowboarding at cooper and pass minturn, gilman & redcliff along the way of highway 24. i came across this looking for info about gilman b/c i was always intrigued by it and i miss colorado.
Wednesday, September 28, 2011
Hi, My name is Wade, and I grew in Eagle Colorado in the 1970's, the closest town to Fulford. When we were teenagers we did a lot of hiking in the New York range with my father, and often did some prospecting while we were out. We researched "The Lost Buck Rogers Mine" which was also written up as the story "Snowslide on Slate Mountain." After several years of searching and reseraching, we ended up finding and following the original map and directions to the mine portal (entrance) we found a lot of evidence of their camp and mine. We found all of the map clues, and even found some of their old metal and tools. There were square nails and rotting timbers, and a cabin foundation. It appeared they moved the cabin to the portal when the weather got severe and the snow piled up. It is located above timberline and it still snows or rains almost daily in that spooky valley between the peaks. We found the location... but it is so covered with boulders it would take teams of men and heavy equipment to re-open the entrance... And since you have to descend on a rope to get into the valley in the first place, it would be almost impossible to uncover. But I still remember the excitement of finding the last remaining clue from the map, still in tact. It's a true story. It's a grave-site up there now, and we meet there on occasion, my brother and I. So spooky and chilly...yet so beautiful... It remains one of my most favorite places on the earth. And I've seen a lot of them.
I'm not sure how, but I stumbled in here and found the Roggen, Colorado page. I scrolled down and what should appear but photos sent in by Gene Calvert of his family's motel. On October 3, 1952 (according to my Dad's diary) we stayed there on the return trip to Minneapolis from a rare vacation. I was eight years old. Of course the way things worked in those days, you just kept driving until you saw a "Vacancy" sign. Dad would stop the Buick and then always go with the proprietor to look at the room. If it passed inspection, that was your spot for the night.
Wow, I remember Gilman. My dad, worked at the mine for 27 years. We lived in Minturn but a lot of my friends lived in Gilman. I remember the ride up Battle Mountain. We drove through there about fifteen years ago and I still got car sick. I remember old Dr. Stanley, he set my arm when I broke it in first grade. His nurse gave me all my shots, I think she was Mrs. Burnett. We also shopped at Murphey's, remember that huge walk-in fridge. I used to love going in there to get milk and eggs. When I was little I was so afraid of visiting friends in Gilman because I was afraid of falling off the side of the mountain. That whole area, including Minturn is becoming one big extension of Vail. Being a Hispanic kid, non-skier, and fluent Spanish speaker, the only memories I have of Vail and the Vail kids is of them making fun of us so please forgive me if I'm not too thrilled about seeing another bit of my happy childhood obliterated by Vailization.
Wow, I can't believe I found this site! I was looking for a new desktop image, and I thought I'd Google "Tolland." I grew up in Tolland; my parents were the caretakers. We lived in the little house just down the hill from the schoolhouse. I have hundreds of fond memories of fishing, kite-flying, walking the dikes with my mother, camping, driving up Giant's Ladder, and of course battling the SNOW. Lovely photos and fascinating article about your great-aunt (oddly enough, as a young adult, I also lived in Grand Junction). Thanks for sharing! --Maggie Alvarez (Hunsaker, as a girl)allensmissus@yahoo.com
Wednesday, September 14, 2011
Back in 1972, I was 18 and was working in a nursing home. One of the people I cared for was a gentleman by the name of Albert Lavato. He suffered from what I know now was Alzhiemer's, but he talked a little about where he grew up. I always thought it was fiction until I look it up one day. He would tell us, "I grew up in Russel Gulch, Colorado. My dad was a minor and my mom was the town whore." I don't know if that was true, but he was consistant about where he came from. Are there any records of an Albert Lavato from there?
Tuesday, September 13, 2011
Hi, my name is Ralph Kemptner, I believe my great grandfather Ernest Owen Kemptner was mayor of Jamestown for a short while, some time around 1930. I'm told he also owned a silver mine. I would love to have any information reguarding him that is available. My email address is rkemptner@comcast.net
Monday, September 05, 2011
September 5, 2011 My dad (Tom Hollenbaugh) passed away in May. He was 77. I remember him bringing me to, as he called it, "The old Baltimore". He told me stories about how when he was young his parents use to go there for long weekends in the summer. He remembered one time spending a whole summer there painting the cabins. Last weekend my husband and I took a drive to the area so I could reflect on spending happy times with my dad. We were unable to find the exact road that would take us to the cabins. When my dad had taken me there about 15 years ago he had to get permission from a gentle man living in a cabin near by. Is that still the case or can my husband and I come for a visit some time, providing we can find the correct road? Thank you, Angie
Rocky Responds - Yes - it is on Private property so you need permission. (And the road is hard to find)
Friday, September 02, 2011
My Great Grandfather, Jeremiah Thomas arrived in Nevadaville sometime after 1863. In 1868 he married Ellen Jenkins in Central City and in 1869 their first son, Charles was born. Three daughters were born in Nevadaville, but all died during their first year of life. The Thomas' left Nevadaville in about 1873-74 for Alta, Utah and then in 1876-77 to Willow Creek, Montana. Have travelled to the area a couple of times trying to find more info, especially on mining records. No luck. Jack Thomas, Bennett, Iowa
Rocky Suggests - Check with the Colorado Historical Society and the Denver Public Library Western History section.
Thanks. I did find little "Vancie" William Lanyon buried at the Bald Eagle Cemetery. It was wonderful to find it and thanks for your help. signed Sharon Lanyon Pierce
Sunday, August 28, 2011
my wife and I stopped there on our honeymoon. we visited with a lady that lived in the assay office and she told us of a man that live there by the name of Jackson that would give you a tour but he was gone at the time some one was living in the large ranch hous on the north end. AT that time there were old cars left around and we went to a mine , elevator and engine that run it was still there and tools. retuned years later and every thing was gone. First visit was 1956 later visit 1999.This was quite a thrill to see as if everyone had just left. On the return trip It was disapointing to see how things had changed. and thank you Rocky . David and Jeanette [dlopour@windstream.net] and still married. 55years
Wednesday, August 24, 2011
I rode over Rollins Pass on my bicycle in 1979. I remember I had to pick the bicycle up and carry through the tunnel. As I went down the other side of the pass (toward Boulder direction, I think), it started to snow and hail; I thought it was funny and started singing Christmas carols, until I realized it wasn't letting up. I made to the bottom of the pass thoroughly drenched and near frozen. I had just finished a group ride over 8 passes and decided to tackle Rollins on my own before I went home to southern California. I have a cool pick but don't knokw how to upload it. Laurie, San Diego, CA
Monday, August 22, 2011
I was real glad to see that Sunshine is still around. My Great-Grandfather L.E. Girard was a resident of Sunshine in the early 1900's. He ran a general store in Sunshine before becoming a State Senator for Colorado,
Saturday, August 13, 2011
I am Mary Beth LYCAN MIller. I was born and raised in Illinois. On vacation as a child, I saw the sign to Lycan Colorado. I did write to the town, {this was way before internet)and was told that a family named Lycan moved from Paris, Il to Colorado, and named the town. This family was related to my family, but not closely. I do not remember any more details, and this was in the late 1960's. that is about all that I tell you now. If you want to contact me Beth62707@ yahoo.com
Friday, August 05, 2011
i am trying to find out how the lamertine mine got its name. i am researching lamertine geneolgy and i have a old letter from my ggg grandfather saying they were headed to colo. i think colo was a stop but i don't know for how long. they ended up in montana. my email is janice_b692001@yahoo.com. if anyone can help i would appreciate it. his name was alex lamertine
Sunday, July 31, 2011
It was nice seeing pictures of Ward. I grew up here and seeing some of the places me and my brothers and sisters played bring back some wonderful memories. I sure do miss those carefree times! Rick
Sunday, July 31, 2011
chrismiller528@charter.net Chris I have tried this before,I don't think I did it right then.I'm sure I wont do it right now.My email is dianelucenti@ yahoo.com.If you get this let me know.Your pal deedee
Sunday, July 31, 2011
chrismiller@charter.net
Wednesday, July 27, 2011
I saw the viewer comments on the "long" cabin just south of Georgia Pass and it brought back some memories! In the 1970's I visited with this fellow a number of times while doing geologic evaluation of his and other properties in the area. He was quite a character and loved to talk mining and drink beer. He has some partners from Chicago at that time who stayed in Fairplay and provided money and beer for his annual mining season. One of the last times I saw him was on a cold, fall day when we were looking as some prospects near timberline not far from his cabin. It started to snow and blow, so we retreated to the cabin for what passed for coffee in his world and some warmth. The cabin was actually quite snug, if dark and a bit dirty. The windows on the north side looked out at the hill sloping up the the jeep trail a few yards away. I looked up to see if the snow was sticking and was more than a little surprised to see a pair of attractive female legs and red shorts. The rest of the person being cut off from view by the top of the window and the overhang of the tin roof. She was a part of a family of four who had driven over the pass from the south the previous afternoon, in a Trans Am, and had spent the night stuck a couple of miles over the pass in a mud hold with the transmission hung on a rock. They had a cold night of it, and were near hypothermic when they got to the cabin, but had enough floor mats and the like to get them a few miles. They were happy to have a ride back to Denver, and I was glad to help them out even if it cut my trip a bit short. I always wondered what it cost to get the Trans Am towed out of there. Steve Rose Reno, NV
Friday, July 22, 2011
Greetings to all my friends who may still be in Oak Creek, and to those "ghosts" that have moved to parts unknown!!! I lived in Oak Creek from about 1970 to '74. I mined coal at Gordon Steele's mine the Apex. We worked in a 52 inch vein about a mile in. Ruby's Cafe was the main eatery at the time. Owned by the Cady's who lived at the top of the hill. I bought their old 1939 Chevy from Mr. Cady for $75 bucks unseen! The ad was in Ruby's window. Within an hour the transaction was made and the doors of the old shed near their house was opened. There, under 1/2" of dust was a beautiful old Chev. I got in, let it roll out, popped the clutch and it started right off!! After touring the town to show it off I drove it to Denver that night and back the next day!! The Chev was purchased from the Hagman's Garage and Dealership down on Main st. You still have a pic of the bldg. at the N.W. end of town the big white bldg. with the two large picture windows. As I recall, the Hagman Chevy Dealership was the only place to by a Chevy between Denver and Salt Lake for years. When I first moved to Routt County, it was to cut the ski runs for the now defunct Stagecoach Ski Area. The numb nuts who had this great idea suddenly realized that there was no elevation to the hills to speak of. It wasn't until after I was gone that the land was bought and made into the lake it is now. Regretably flooding a nice little valley just East of Phippsburg. A fond memory of P-burg was when the two ladies who worked at the Phippsburg Cafe (part of the railroad owned Hotel) would set homemade pies on the window sill to cool. On some mornings to could smell the delicious aroma from the Yampa Cabins all the way to the Oak Creek High school!!! wow! I have run on long enough. I will close by saying good bye to all my friends who live with me in my memories: Clay and Jane, Gordon and his brother, the Cady's, the Hagmans, Lonzo and his Mom, Jerry Dubin ( who painted the cherries on the youth center, snicker ), Laura at the Inn, Pat and Hubby Kamakaris (?), Dave White at the Circle R, Charlie and Sylvia, Bruce Campbell (yes that Bruce Campbell), and all my bud's at the bar..on both sides of the street. Kris Kaub
Thursday, July 21, 2011
Plan to visit soon, your site is very helpful.
Thursday, July 21, 2011
my name is arnold madrid, i live in mammoth az now. but i lived in gilman in 64 to 71. the town was so nice to live in. the people were very nice too. memmories: the sled riding down the mine road, the climbing of the stairs during the winter,the school slide, mrs crayon the school teacher, the long slide and the teetertotter that was there, im wondering what happen to the school bell? the lil store up town was ran by mr murphy, i still remember our box number #46. the lil clinic was awesome now that i think of the place.we would go play at the timbers, anthony valdez and i were best friends, back in the days.during the summers, wow, never had a dull moment there.there was bible group that would come down, we would go sing songs,fishing there was awesome,every fridays and saturdays, if you drove down the mine road, the first house there was white and green trimming, thats where i lived. we all caught the bus in front of the mine parking lot. mr abrams was the bus driver, and mr sadoval from red cliff.from the house we lived in ,then we moved to the last street,the first house there, the rivieras lived there, i remember the watchman there, mr jinkins i believe,his lil round glasses and his beard, i was always afraid of him, i dont no why, but i was. my dad was a miner there at the mines.amadeo madrid was his name, they called him nickname (horse). i remember the story of the guy that got buried by the snow that collapsed on him.my brother steve knew him.my email is z_iggy61@hotmail.com and my phone nmber is 520-487-2212, id like to hear from people that lived there also. we thank u rocky for this page also.
Thursday, July 21, 2011
i lived there in Gilman in 65 to 71, beautiful country
Thursday, July 21, 2011
Hi chris,it's me deedee.I don't know if I'm doing this right.Please let me know!!
Wednesday, July 20, 2011
I lived in Gilman from 1952 to 1956; my dad was Staff Geologist. Had Mrs. Cryan for kindergarten my last year there -- and I have the class picture to prove it! It was a great place to be a kid. My brother was born there in 1953. So many memories -- walking down the hill to meet my dad and walk home with him, playing in the woods, playing on the tailings piles (my sister and I joke that we still glow in the dark), walking down the street with my eyes closed (hey, I was 4 years old) and falling off the rock wall (fortunately I landed in a sandbox), going down to the Rod 'n Gun in Minturn for picnics, getting 57 splinters in my hand from the teeter-totter. We lived next door to the Phillips; the Jim and Fee Brown (and their sons Doug and Lyle) lived one house away. Mrs. Cryan lived at the far end of the street and the Webbs lived above us (Donna Webb and I have kept in touch for 59 years). Von Bristow was the school superintendent. If you'd like to share memories, my name then was Randi Westphal (now Gallivan), mjgallivan@gmail.com.
Friday, July 15, 2011
Animas Forks Colorado is our family favorite. Many Labor Day weekends were spent there. The magic of the townsite is unmatched. We used to "go to town" with a lantern and boombox and dance in the bay window house [called the Walsh house]. What splendid memories! This was back in the late 70's into the 90's. Our kids and grandkids are actually going up there this weekend. I wish I were going along. JuneCal Albuquerque, NM
Friday, July 15, 2011
What a treat. Grew up in N.M. in the 40s and 50s, played baseball in Santa Rita and went through Hanover more than once including a stop while on a trip to Silver City in the 80s when my wife and I toured many a NM "Ghost town". We have a couple of pint milk bottles from the T & M Dairy in Hanover. On the opposite side of the bottle is "T & M Dairy Ice Creak...Delicious ...Hits the Spot" with a target and a sherbert glass ice cream. The bottle is dated C42, which means 1942. Al Duitman, Cape Coral, Florida.
Thursday, July 14, 2011
Hi there. My great-great grandfather, Thomas Lanyon was a miner in Nevadaville. He married Susie Louise Vance (Lanyon) who was a teacher there in the late 1880's. Thomas came from Cornwall England to Nevadaville. I am trying to find child of theirs (William Lanyon) who was buried there. (not the Russell Gultch Cemetery as thought) Please give info if available. Also how do i find out about which mine Thomas Lanyon worked in? spierce@ccalt.org Thank you so much for this site , signed Sharon Lanyon Pierce!!
Thursday, July 07, 2011
hello my name is elise renee gingerich, age 39 i just had a birthday on may 17th of this year, i currently live in sweet little Lawrence Kansas Usa and i think these pictures are really Really cute and i'm not just saying that, because i really Adore prarie dogs, Alot and i hope that they continue to survive even with us humans seeming to destroy everything around us, but anyways, Thank You and Have a Nice Day Please do!
Saturday, July 02, 2011
pork....best of luck hunting in the fall....have fun brother and see you soon....buck carlisle pa. 17013
Saturday, July 02, 2011
My name is Doris (Dougherty) Truby and I lived in Jamestown (only our elders called it Jim Town) from 1949 until about 1965,although I went back very often to visit my Grandparents;Dave and Ruth Goodard. My children got to enjoy this homestead until 1981 when Dave passed. I have only been back once as I now live in North Carolina and that was about 7 or 8 years ago. My Mom was Inie(Inez)and my Uncle Al lived in Jamestown until recently.I was very surprised to learn my cousins Charlie and Rosie were still around! I'm the girl with the braids standing next to Charlie in the Reed class photo. I remember the Jeske family very well, especially Mike,for someone that was special, he was the only one that remembered my birthday many years after moving away. When I visited Jamestown I was saddened at the decline of Grandpas house but amazed that MY house was in very good shape and being lived in. Often thought of writting my memories of life there,as my Grandchildren love hearing about 'back then'. Names that pop into my head are; Dean and Gene Sapp, WillaJean and AlphaMay Hamlin, Larry Upp, Mrs. Lively, Trista Perrin (her father was the preacher) Dennis Reed, 'Monk' and Grace Gunn, the Jansens and the Coatsworths...lots of names lots of very dear memories!! My email add.; doristruby@yahoo.com
Friday, July 01, 2011
Drove in family car east to west through tunnel #32, Needle Eye, and over the two bridges. No problems. Took my Dad who had gone from Denver to Corona and return about 1915. The railroad "Town" was Corona, the pass is Rollins Pass. There is no Corona Pass. In about 1982 I came up from Winter Park in a 4WD and drove almost to the west portal of the tunnel, #33, at the Loop. In 2005 I again came up from Winter Park in a 4WD, drove past the Loop and then on the old wagon road to the parking area north of Needle Eye tunnel. Then down the zigzag toward Yankee Doodle Lake, but not without hanging the transmission on a rock and working 1.5 hours to get myself loose. I then had to go up a slippery slope that acted like loose shale, then down to YDL. I do not recommend this trip, even in a 4WD, as the zigzag section below the parking area was steep and had a lot of loose gravel.
Wednesday, June 29, 2011
I just left a coment about Salina and did'nt leave my email address. My name is Bill Saunders and I live in Superior, Colorado. My email is: sawdustbill@hotmail.com Hopefully you can put that on my first message. I would like to find some picures of the old house.
Wednesday, June 29, 2011
I lived in Salina when I was six or seven years old. We lived in the house just east of the cafe (up the stone steps) and across from the church. That was in 1955 or 56. It's gone now (I guess the fire got it last september). I've been trying to find pictures of the house, but so far have found none. Bill Saunders in Superior, Colorado
Tuesday, June 28, 2011
Hey this is a great site - I came across the Tolland ghost town section, which is near where I live; have you heard of the Altitude Paranormal Group? They came hunting for ghosts at the Stage Stop in Rollinsville, which is near Tolland. There is a report on the website http://thestagestoprollinsville.com (scroll down through the postings). It's pretty cool. Thanks!
Wednesday, June 22, 2011
I worked for Isabelle Cross at the Log Cabin Corner general store the summers of 1971 and 1972. Great experience. Have always wondered what happened to the property since. I am Leslie (Butterfield) Wetherford e-mail: georgeldw@aol.com
Saturday, June 11, 2011
My name is Elaine and I have looking for information on a town in Colorado named Wren. If anyone has any information or can tell me where to look I would greatly appreciate it.
Saturday, June 11, 2011
Hi it's Elaine again. Sorry I forgot to give you my email address. It is emshoemaker@comcast.net. Thank again for any help.
Wednesday, June 08, 2011
THIS IS SOURDOUGH DRU FROM HOPE ALASKA. BORN IN FAIRBANKS LOOK WHERE I ENDED UP! MY POOR NEIGHBORS! JUST WAITIN' FER ME TA KICK THE BUCKET SO'S THEY CAN GIT MY GOLD! COME AND SEE ME ON A LARK! 1ST PLACE ON THE LEFT ON MAIN STREET. AS MY LONG GONE WHISKERY NEIGHBOR ONE EYE-D JACK WOULD SAY "COME ON IN AND I'LL TELL YA A LONG WINDY STORY!"
Sunday, June 05, 2011
I always come back to your site.. just love it. I'm not a native but worked up in Blackhawk and CC just when gaming started, when there was still "character" there and you could still sense the history, I felt such an odd affinity for the place. Spent many a day 'four wheeling' around Gilpin county in my '76 bug and just am so thankful for your site. Checked out your Mountain City pics too- which is gone now, I believe.. If I'm not mistaken they shoved all the houses they took out of Blakhawk up there.. Used to hike up that way, still have a dog tag I found.. Half of it anyway.. reads Blackhawk dog tax 18-... Anyway, sorry for the babbling, but thanks for the site! I can't bear to go up there without getting sick to my stomach these days, so the old pics are just wonderful.
Thursday, June 02, 2011
I'm glad you sent this page. As I read all the comments and stories I'm jealous as I have no stories on my relatives that lived in Russell Gulch, Apex, Central City, Nevadaville, Perigo. I read the stories just hoping someone knows the Rosetta, Andreatta, Hines families. Mike Rosetta and Mayor Davies were in partners on some mines. While my grand father was checking mines in June of 1907 he was hit by lightening on Russell Gulch and four days later by his daughters: Angelina, Jennie and Lulu Rosetta found his body. Antonio Andreatta owned the Lulu Mine and my grand father Mike owned the Angelina. My grand mother Lizzie died in 1895 and there was an inquest to her death but as we all know the paper work seems to disappear.
I visited the town this morning, took a few photos and was stopped by a cranky old lady who asked me why I was walking all over her property. I explained to her, I was only taking photos, and if it was "Her" property, and it was "private" she needs to display signs. She said she did'nt need to since she owns the town. I thanked her, told her I would not return, and promptly left as her dogs were fairly mean. She lived in the mobile home with all the cable spools stacked around it. Maybe she's afraid the indians will return?
Hello, I lived in Gilman also and moved to AZ in 1968/69, twenty to twenty-five kids per class if you were lucky, I remember Mrs. Cryan as the kindergarten and 3rd grade teacher. Poor woman had put up with all four of us. Fond memories my Dad was the town Plumber Les Asbury. anyway I'm very curious to find out more information about the town and particularly the SCHOOL Bell, I'm sure it was worth a lot it probably saw 100 years of use for sure, just wonder what museum it probably ended up in, do you know? If you know any where I can look up more information please email me would like to hear from you, it is very hard now to remember names of kids I went to school with but I will look for a picture of us in first grade in 1965 so people can see me and some others they might recognize. I am alos going to pos tthis on the website., and see if anyone remembers me, flicker had some really good pictures of the town you should chek out they even had pictures of the bowling alley it also was used for bible school in the summer! And there is a picture of the x-mas star they used to mount on top of the garages. I remember the teeter totter oh so well like it was yesterday, it was a very tall slide and it did get hot because it was metal. Sandra (Sandi) Asbury (Asbury was my maiden name) Fort Collins, CO
Thursday, May 19, 2011
I also lived in Gilman Colorado. My sister was born there in the late fifties. I took my parents back for a visit quite a few years ago. Oh the memories what a beautiful place to grow up in. We moved to Paonia Colorado in the mid sixties. I also rmember the bowling alley and my mom worked in the store. I wish they would put in a muesum there or make it safe to visit as I would love to take my children and grandchildren there to visit.
Great pictures. My dad talked about Wild Horse and he had visited there when he was a kid. My Grand Father was Herman Otto Pfalzgraff. All the old picture I have were taken of Deer Creek Minnesota, where my Grand father/ great grandfather lived before going to Wild Horse to help build the town. So thank you for the great picture of Wild Horse. Karl Pfalzgraff
Monday, May 16, 2011
Hi, I am researching John Wesley Stockett, who had a store in Sunset around 1900-1901. He also was a miner. I'm wonderng if anyone has a photo of the old store?
Rocky Writes
- If I was trying to find a photo I would start looking at the Carnegie Library
in Boulder and talk to Marti Anderson. Also check out her Blog at
http://miningcamps.blogspot.com/
She lists both
John Wesley
Stockett
and Anna M. Stockett as living in Sunset.
Tuesday, May 10, 2011
People from or with roots to Bonanza, I stumbled across your site and find it facinating. If you are doing any kind of family research, you may want to consider that back in the olden days a lot of people didn't know how to read or write. I have been reading some of the posts that have been made on this site and believe that some of your "Raymond" relatives may have had their names spelled differently, such as "Remine" and "Reymann" Good Luck!!!
Saturday, May 07, 2011
I love your web site. It is such a pleasure to find others who appreciate the wonders of Colorado's rich and varied history. I have vacationed there for the last 15 years and have managed to visit quite a few of the ghost towns. Hard to do too many when you only have 2 weeks out of the year, but what fun I've had trying!! My latest and greatest accomplishment has been Crystal. I first tried to go there in 1994, and FINALLY made it in Septemebr of 2010. Well worth the wait! Keep up the good work...I'm always looking for new places to visit in Colorado! Thanks again for sharing! If you have time, check out my website where I have posted some pics of the Crystal trip. http://dannafrench.zenfolio.com Danna French Plano, TX dannafhome@yahoo.com
Tuesday, May 03, 2011
I just stumbled upon your site and am grateful for the pictures, etc. - especially of the Vulture Mine. I grew up in AZ and went on many trips with my family to places like Wickenburg's Vulture Mine (they used to have a large pit by the visitor center where they collected all the snakes that were caught - I saw them put in the one I almost stepped on), and Jerome (which might make a good addition to your site - it's been kind of an "on and off" ghost town over the years). I seem to remember the Vulture Mine used to be a "state sponsored park" or something like that - is that no longer the case? Some ideas for future inclusion: There are some areas around Globe and Bisbee that might qualify as more recent "ghost towns". I also seem to remember a lot of small towns along the route between Tucson, Globe, and the White Mountains, as well as along the route from Phoenix, through Payson, to the White Mountains (up the Mogollon Rim way). I now live in MN, and really miss trekking around in the desert looking at ghost towns.
SUPERSTITION MOUNTAIN, ARIZONA
Friday, April 29, 2011
The last time I visited Sunshine Cemetery was in 2006. Took lots of pictures of several relative's grave sites & markers. I've been worried if the cemetery was damaged by the fires. Hopefully I'll be able to see for myself soon. Thank you for all of the information on the site. Mrs. Dana Guy lobogirl@gmail.com
Tuesday, April 26, 2011
My name is George Raymond of Huntington Beach CA. On your Bonanza page, entry April 17th, 2011 is a person with information on the Raymond Ranch and the Raymonds in Bonanza. I would love to make contact and shair information. My Great Grandparents were John Raymond and Mary Casteel. They had Everett, Maud, Mary, John, James (My Grandfather), Laura, Thomas, Sanford,and Robert. James died the month befor my dad was born. My Grandmother Ivy Bryant Raymond moved the family to Laport CO after James death. Thanks for any help. GRAYMOND@socal.rr.com Also would like information on the book their Grandmother wrote.
Monday, April 25, 2011
Hello there. Thank you for your lovely site. My name is Alero and I'm visiting Colorado for the first time from London, UK. I find every thing about this state fascinating and utterly beautiful and I'm having such a great time. Been here two months, seen so much but it's just the tip of the iceberg! Leaving soon (sad) but hope to come back one day - What a dream it would be to come live in the mountains here. Thank you for all the pictures and history on this site. Keep up the good work! All the best. lovelyalero@hotmail.com
Monday, April 25, 2011
Great site. I am George Raymond in Huntington Beach CA. My Grandfather Jameg George Raymond and Great Grandfather John Raymond were miners in and around Bonanza CO. I will be in Bonanza in July 2011 looking for information on the Raymond family, I have came across pictures of Ivy Raymond at the cabin in Bonanza and of James at the mine near Bonanza. I am willing to share what I have with others. George GRAYMOND@socal.rr.com
Wednesday, April 20, 2011
I have many relatives buried in the Russell Gulch cemetery. I last visited in June of 2010 to see the markers and check on things in general. My family names were Jones and Olver. They lived there in the 1870s to the early 1900s. William Olver was a grocer, William Jones was a miner. Tim Smith us662001@yahoo.com
Saturday, April 16, 2011
Thanks, Thanks, I and my wife appreciate the work you have put into keeping the good old memories alive. We lived in Blackhawk back in 87 when politicians would not allow the rock piles along the creek to be cleaned up. Good for them---conservation! I just wonder how much money slid across what crooked paws to be able to tear down history like the Gates House where we lived on Main street (dirt) and replace such a wonderful place with all those gambling casinos. Go figure. Next time I run across our old house I will send you a copy. You might remember it when you see it. It's hard to miss a two story yellow house up overlooking the stream and main street. Especially with blue doors. No--not my choice of colors. The house was owned by Mike Parfinoff of Chicago Ill'
Saturday, April 16, 2011
Hi Mike.. I love your website and thanks for your help and suggestions for our September trip. John (UK)
Thursday, April 07, 2011
This is the PLACE I want to move to. All I need is find a house with a three story out house attached, any offers? Jesse Wayreth@msn.com
Monday, April 04, 2011
went to school in Grover 6th grade in 1959-1960. Government was building missle sites in grover area and pines bluff wy area. We lived on a sheep ranch owned by Art Bard about 7 miles {i think} from Hereford and took the bus to Grover everyday. Can remember one students name there. His dad was a cattle and wheat farmer/rancher. Boys name was Randy Peters. My name is Michael Christensen and now reside in Defeated Creek Tennessee
Sunday, April 03, 2011
looking through the Pfalzgraff site and ran into your site. Wild Horse is part of my childrens family history. (Herman Otto, John Hugo), Karl Johan and sisters Christina, Jennifer and Elizabeth would have the most information. I will pass this site on to him. Neat photos. Nancy White
WE LIVED IN MINTURN MID 30's TIL THE END OF WWII, MY DAD OREN APPLEGARTH WAS AN ELECTRICIAN AT THE MINE. I WAS BORN IN GILMAN IN 1939, DAD PLAYED BASEBALL WITH THE BATTLE MOUNTAIN MINERS IN 1936-1939. apples02@st-tel.net
hello...my name is jeff felton i grew up in the fort until it burn in 73 or so i will have to check ,but i have my dads photos that i will get on here. i guess where to start ..he made leather hats ... jerry hoerner lives in mo. galespy and others ..would like to find chatty cathy kenny Goehkinhower ? others... like to communicate with people from the russell gulch And i like to call it an artist community ...rather than ...will log on soon with some photos...jeff [ planetjeff777@q.com ]
I stumbled across your site out of frustration to find something/ anything about my family. My family lived in Nevadaville, Apex, Perigo. Their names are Angelo Rosetta, his daughter Lulu married Antonio Andreatta. He owned the lulu lode for awhile. His other daughter Angeline married Oney Hines and his last daughter married Jennie married John Tessadri. My grand father Angelo Rosetta owned the Angeline mine and was friend with mayor Davies. The graves of my grand aprents can't be found and it seems like any info about my family is not to be found. IF anyone has any idea baout my family please contact me at tessadri@venturecomm.net
We visited Summittville Colorado Ghost town just this past week....what beautiful scenery all the way up....I have some of the most incredible pictures from our drive.
Thanks for the photos - this is an historic site I have on my bucket list as my husband`s family came from Kansas and many have been the tales of the pioneers and their tribulations. Sorry to native americans but this was no act of war to murder children wantonly cross fire is one thing murder another. My heart is with Susanah Alderdice and what she suffered after the wanton murder of her children. They all need to be in our memory minus reformed politically correct history on either side of the spectrum
Sunday, March 13, 2011
Anyone from Russell Gulch, up in the shacks 1973 April? Stayed there , Brotherhood bikers hung out at the Red Bandana. Tollgate Tavern?
Sunday, March 06, 2011
I grew up in Summit County!!!! I just recently had to move =(... These pictures bring me back to the good times =) Tracy
Sunday, March 06, 2011
My mother, Emily Serafin Battaia, is turning 100 in October of 2011. She was born in Russell Gulch, the youngest of four siblings. She has lived in Telluride, Silverton, Ouray, rode the narrow gauge and has a clear memory. My dad was born in Blackhawk, his father was a miner at the Black Jack mine. We have maps of the mines under Central City. My siblings and I were raised on the stories of the mining towns and events including the plague. Would love hearing from any other " kids of the mountain people". longmarknc@yahoo.com My grandmother was Katina Casagranda Serafin, wife of Steven and the other was Mary Micheli Battaia, wife of G. Battaia
More to add here. I have a picture of the Warren school in Cripple Creek with a group outside it. I guess it became a hospital. It may still be there and called Golden School. There is an ink mark pointing to one of the people in the crowd. See my comments just below this. My great great grandmother was active in the Salvation Army (H E Bogart)and I have a group picture of that. Again looking for any info or books about that time. b
My family lived in Cripple Creek in the 1800s. I have a note from the town clerk telling Mr.Gardner that he was elected mayor of Ironton. This is in my family bible so it has some connection to my family. The names that would be there at that time are Fulwider and Ellithorpe. My grandmother, Hattie born in 1891, and her mother, Mary Ellithorpe later came to Reno. That is where my mother and I were born. I now live in Washington state and am trying to find information on the family in Colorado that might be out there or even books that would talk about life in those days, preferable nonfiction. My email is cfreedman@wwdb.org.
Great photo's and information site. I'm researching the Nicholas Stuppi family and they lived and mined here from about 1880-1900. Two youngest sons were both born in Kelly, Frank in Oct 1883 and Joseph Aug 1889. By the Jun 12th 1900 census they'd moved on to El Paso Texas and finally settled in Douglas, Cochise, Arizona working for Phelps Dodge Corp at the mine and smelter there. I think it was the Copper Queen mine. Thanks Linda Rutz jlrutz@yahoo.com
Saturday, February 19, 2011
Hi: I just noted that "Pam" said she rolled her call of the road going from Gilman to Redcliff. (Message 2/28/09). I would like to know how she survived. I saw this happen to another individual back in the forties.It was not a pretty sight. I always kept on the inside of every curve on that mountain road. Mayo Lanning
Thursday, February 17, 2011
The trip to the marble quarry in years past was possible. The road is on the old electric railroad grade used to bring down the marble. Today, the upper part of the access road is gated with a pulloff parking area to the left. There was a trail from this point above Yule Creek, but this too has been gated. I suppose liability issues are involved. I am tthankful I was able to see the spectacular vaults in years past. Ken Jessen, Loveland, Colorado
The road into Carson was, at one time, quite difficult especially the stream crossing where the original bridge had collapsed. Above the crossing was a section of large river rocks - slow going. In recent years and with renewed mining on the divide at "old" Carson, the road has been greatly improved. Ken Jessen, Loveland, Colorado
In recent years, Gilman has been patrolled several times a day. It is also posted. The person patrolling the site is not the least bit afraid to call the sheriff. The best advise is to stay on the public road and photograph this ghost towns from the turnouts. Belden, along the river, was the loading point for ore to be shipped to a smelter. This site is inaccessible. Ken Jessen, Loveland, Colorado
I worked for New Jersey Zinc in Gilman the summer of 1967. I lived in the staff house and took lunch down in the mine. bought my helmet and boots at the company store. There was a nice little neighborhood down some streets. It was a little company town at the time.
Wednesday, February 16, 2011
I think that there is still ghost in a lot of places like old mexico and there is a lot of ghost in the old ghost houses that are haunted by spirits and ghosts that are from different worlds from wendy sells
Rocky Says - I haven't run into any of them yet. Sort of wish I would. I did meet one in a hotel room in Marina del Rey once.
Tuesday, February 15, 2011
Can't believe this site! I just found out today through a 1900 Colorado census record of where my great-grandparents first settled in America. In short, it reads location 385, Nevadaville town, Gilpin, Colorado. Here is their story with the puzzle coming together: *Francis & Catharine Lightfoot (nee Hill) emigrated with their infant daughter, Mary, from Dearham, England, aboard the SS Berlin to New York in March 1893. Francis (later Frank) was a coal miner from England - went to Nevadaville and is listed as a gold miner. * The infant daughter, Mary Lightfoot, was not listed in the 1900 census as a member of the family (2 other children are) - so she must have died & is likely buried nearby? *Catharine was pregnant when they emigrated in March 1893 and in Dec. 1893, my grandmother, Elizabeth Lightfoot was born in Nevadaville. *In short, they had several children while living in this area, but once again emigrated to work in the silver mines in Cobalt, Ontario, Canada. Elizabeth seems to be the only surviving child to arrive with them in about 1906. There were several more children born in Cobalt, Ontario, but for some reason they all died young. *In 1911, Elizabeth Lightfoot (yes, 14 yrs.old!) married my grandfather, Norman Donald, from Bracebridge, Ontario, Canada. *My father, Merrill Donald, was born Feb. 27, 1922, in Bracebridge, Ontario. He will be 89 years old in a couple of weeks. Although he suffers from Alzheimer's disease and has lost most of his short-term memory, he suddenly has clear long-term memories of his grandmother telling the stories of Nevadaville. *Isn't it a small world?!? If anyone can connect any of the above names in the area from about 1893 to 1905/6, please email me at: muskokajunebug@yahoo.com This is a wonderfully put together site and I've thoroughly enjoyed the find. Keep it up! I hope to visit one day. Regards, June
Tuesday, February 15, 2011
I was searching historical news papers to find articles about my great-great uncle John Renstrom. On Sep 27 1895 Aspen Daily Times reports that the four owners of the Jericho claim, among them John, were showing specimens of ore at the store of M.V. Korupkat. It fairly glitter of gold... Anyone else that know something about the four men Ed Korupkat, H.W. Ennen, John Renstrom, and E. Barthold from Glenwood Springs? cgolsson@gmail.com
Monday, February 14, 2011
I had a summer job working underground at Gilman, CO the summer of 1977. I must say it was one of the most interesting jobs I've every had. Walking down the drift (tunnel) with 80 sticks of dynamite under my arm, blowing stuff up after screaming fire in the hole all up and down the stope (the place where the ore is dug out of, a pretty interesting 3 dimensional lattice work of 8 by 8 timbers). One time they showed us how to escape from the mine in the event of the lift failing (600 feet down), out the side of the mountain. We ended up touring some of the old mine workings, imagining a bunch of little chinese kids on ladders up inside these cracks leading of the main seam of lead/zinc, long since mined out. There wasn't much ore left when I worked there, they had an exploratory shaft going off to look for another mother lode, but don't think they ever found anything. I don't think that operation kept going much longer than a year after I worked there. I do remember getting $5 per roof bolt of bonus money. A lot of money for a 19-year old kid. Glenn Decker
Wednesday, February 02, 2011
I own the small stone cabin in the pictures of Oak Creek. For the record we bought the property when it had been abandoned for more than four years. A more recent visit to the town would reveal no trash can on the roof, a new roof, and fire place as well as a more manicured lawn. Oak Creek is the best town I have ever been involved with! With the "old school" miners and ranchers giving the town it's flavor and the new younger generation moving in to restore it's beautiful old homes and landscapes, anyone should be impressed with a drive through our neighborhood. If you do come to town, don't forget to stop at Chelsea's Chinese restaurant; recently written up in the Denver Post for it's top notch chinese food!
Friday, January 28, 2011
We are VMPRA a 501c3 and we need your help to save the Vulture mine near Wickenburg AZ. If we operated this like a chain letter where if one was to donate just $10 and the got there friends to just keep passing it along we could save this part of western history. The vulture was used in the filming of the mivie The Graves and was featured on the travel channel Ghost Adventures. You can check us out at savevulturemine.org and send us a donation or become a member. Thank You
Thursday, January 27, 2011
My wife and I drove my Volkswagen bus over the pass in about 1974 I believe it was. If I remember, the road was in pretty good shape. I stopped and did a little fly fishing in one of the lakes, but now that I look back on it, I don't think there were any fish in it. But I didn't care. Being an Indiana boy, I just love being in the mountains. I really hope it gets repaied and usable someday, but that doesn't look too likely. Very awesome website!!!
Monday, January 24, 2011
My great great grandfather was working the mines at Carson City in 1900, according to the US census. He was living with his wife ,Irma, and three children, all girls, including my great grandmother Cornelia (Nellie).
Wednesday, January 19, 2011
Hi! My husband Mike is new to the amazing beauty of Colorado. We visited your site this evening, and the smiles haven't left our faces yet! We can't WAIT for summer, to visit these wonderful places you've shown us here. Thank you so much! Mike & Debra Gabler, 1/19/2011
Tuesday, January 18, 2011
Great site... Lived in Sunshine, Colo. (town proper) from 1964 to 1968. Married to Thomas (Tuck) Gunn (born in sunshine and attended school there). Two of 4 of my children were born there. Many happy memories. Thomas passed away in 1976. A lot of Gunn history and all are buried there in the Sunshine Cemetery. My father in law, Milton N. gunn, was a hard rock miner and worked the Dolly 1 and 2 mines. Had a patent on another one but can't remember the name.
Tuesday, January 18, 2011
Great stuff....maybe take a trip over Cottonwood pass from Buena Vista to Tincup sometime, great trip with incredible views. Tincup is a great little town with history, and get a Tin Cup at the store!
Rocky Replies - That was one of my first trips when I moved to Colorado.
Monday, January 17, 2011
Cool site. Sending a few bucks.
Sunday, January 16, 2011
I found this picture of the Crystal Springs Mill while searching through pics of Ghost towns on the net. The best part, is that I live in a cabin in Alaska, and this picture (the 2nd 1985 pic) came with the cabin when rented. It shows a creek running next to it as well. I stare endlessly at it everyday, and am glad to finally know, where it is & when it was taken. Thanks. From Amy, Tok, AK
Rocky Replies - Too bad I don't have your email address. I was in TOK last year and plan a visit again this year. I would stop and say HI.
Saturday, January 15, 2011
I just left a request for help to locate my grate grand father in wildhorse colorado cematery. My e mail is chrismiller528@charter.net thank you
Saturday, January 15, 2011
My grate grand father setteled in widhorse colorado and had 7 boys.he died there by a cable snapping when he was clearing his land there.Would there be a cemetery there to try to locate him there ? Is there any records after 1917 of who lived there? Were is wildhorse colorado at? please help me put an end to a long search!!!!
Saturday, January 15, 2011
My grate grand father setteled in widhorse colorado and had 7 boys.he died there by a cble snapping when he was clearing his land there.Would there be a cemetery there to try to locate him there ? Is there any records after 1917 of how lived there? Were is wildhorse colorado at? please help me put an end to a long search!!!!
Saturday, January 15, 2011
I went up the west side of Corona with my parents in about 1937 or 1938. We had a picnic on top and gathered up some wire from a fallen-down telegraph line which we used as clothesline for many years. It was mid-summer, but my recollection is that it was very cold up there. My cousin, a very large man, tested the trestles for us by walking across. We figured that if they could support him, they were safe to drive across... Joe
Monday, January 10, 2011
Great Site
Monday, January 10, 2011
I lived in Leadville CO in the late 90's. My friends and I were fascinated by the abandoned town of Gilman. We took a walk around the area. There was so much stuff still there, all sorts of medical files, X Rays. They left all there paperwork there when the left. We saw bowling lanes amongst other things. The large building basement was to way to creepy to go into. At that time the houses still had bathroom fixtures and kitchen cabinets. We had a great time looking around at all the old stuff and trying very hard not to get too creeped out! Jen Fairbanks Alaska
Thursday, January 06, 2011
hello . former resident of chitna emporium nice photos brings back memorys.. thanks, gerald churchill
Tuesday, January 04, 2011
According to the obit for my great grandmother Mary Jane (Harper) Simpson, who was born in 1876, she moved to Gilman at a young age and went to school there before she married in 1890 (in Aspen)and then moved to Minturn. But I hear that much of the town (Gilman) she lived in burned in 1899. I have never been to Colorado, but the recent release of True Grit reminded me of my grandfather who grew up in Minturn and loved western novels, movies and TV shows, and makes me want to explore his stomping grounds.
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