Silver Reef, Utah: Difference between revisions
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{{Infobox Settlement |
{{Infobox Settlement |
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| name = Silver Reef |
| name = Silver Reef |
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| image_skyline = View of Silver Reef.jpg |
| image_skyline = View of Silver Reef.jpg |
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| image_caption = Silver Reef in the 1880s |
| image_caption = Silver Reef in the 1880s |
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| pushpin_map = Utah |
| pushpin_map = Utah |
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| established_title = Founded |
| established_title = Founded |
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| established_date = 1875 |
| established_date = 1875 |
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| named_for = [[Silver]] in [[sandstone]] reefs |
| named_for = [[Silver]] in [[sandstone]] reefs |
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| extinct_title = Abandoned |
| extinct_title = Abandoned |
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| extinct_date = 1888 |
| extinct_date = 1888 |
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[[File:Silver Reef 2.jpg|thumb|upright|Old ore bin, Silver Reef]] |
[[File:Silver Reef 2.jpg|thumb|upright|Old ore bin, Silver Reef]] |
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'''Silver Reef''' is a [[ghost town]] in [[Washington County, Utah|Washington County]], [[Utah]], [[United States]]. Located about {{convert|15|mi}} northeast of [[St. George, Utah|St. George]] and {{convert|1|mi}} |
'''Silver Reef''' is a [[ghost town]] in [[Washington County, Utah|Washington County]], [[Utah]], [[United States]]. Located about {{convert|15|mi}} northeast of [[St. George, Utah|St. George]] and {{convert|1|mi}} west of [[Leeds, Utah|Leeds]], Silver Reef got its start when [[silver]] was found in [[sandstone]]. Initially, miners dismissed the claim, since silver in sandstone was unheard of. However, in 1875, when two [[Salt Lake City, Utah|Salt Lake City]] [[banker]]s sent William Barbee to the site to stake [[mining claim|claims]], he staked 21 claims.<ref name= "Mining in Washington County"/> Almost overnight, miners from around the state came to the site to claim their fortune.<ref name = Silver Reef"/> Silver Reef was first known as the "Rockpile", and was located just north of William Barbee's town called Bonanza City. When mines closed in [[Pioche, Nevada]], businessmen came to the Rockpile and set up businesses. Eventually, the name of the town was changed to Silver Reef.<ref name = "Dixie "/> |
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By 1879, the town's population had reached approximately 2,000 people. The town had a mile-long [[Main Street]] lined with businesses that had moved there from Pioche. These businesses included a [[Wells Fargo|Wells Fargo office]], which is now a museum, the Cosmopolitan Restaurant, and many other buildings. Interestingly enough, Silver Reef never had a [[The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints|Mormon Church]]. The only church in town was a [[Catholic Church]]. 1879 was also a very terrible year for Silver Reef; a fire swept through town and destroyed many businesses. |
By 1879, the town's population had reached approximately 2,000 people. The town had a mile-long [[Main Street]] lined with businesses that had moved there from Pioche. These businesses included a [[Wells Fargo|Wells Fargo office]], which is now a museum, the Cosmopolitan Restaurant, and many other buildings. Interestingly enough, Silver Reef never had a [[The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints|Mormon Church]]. The only church in town was a [[Catholic Church]]. 1879 was also a very terrible year for Silver Reef; a fire swept through the town and destroyed many businesses.<ref name="Legends"/> This did not stop Silver Reef from forging ahead; it rebuilt its buildings and continued mining operations. |
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For a decade, Silver Reef was one of the largest and most important towns in [[Dixie (Utah)|Utah's Dixie]]. It was also one of the roughest, with constant [[shootout]]s, bar brawls, [[prostitution]], [[gambling]] and [[murder]]. |
For a decade, Silver Reef was one of the largest and most important towns in [[Dixie (Utah)|Utah's Dixie]]. It was also one of the roughest, with constant [[shootout]]s, bar brawls, [[prostitution]], [[gambling]] and [[murder]].<ref name = "Silver Reef"/> However, as with most mining towns, Silver Reef's glory had to come to an end. As silver prices dropped, [[Shareholder|stockholder]]s lowered miners' wages until they could not afford to live in Silver Reef. Also, the miners had accidentally dug under the [[water table]], which caused many of the mines to become flooded. The mines began to close in 1884, and as they disappeared, so did Silver Reef's once flourishing population. The closure of the last mine in 1888 spelled the beginning of the end for Silver Reef.<ref name = "woodworkersauction"/> In 1900, most of the buildings in Silver Reef were either sent to Leeds or scrapped. A fire in 1908 destroyed almost everything else.<ref name="Legends"/> |
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Today several buildings still stand in Silver Reef. The [[Wells Fargo]] office is on the [[National Register of Historic Places|National Historic Register]] and serves as a [[museum]]. The Rice Bank Building serves as an information center |
Today, several buildings still stand in Silver Reef. The [[Wells Fargo]] office is on the [[National Register of Historic Places|National Historic Register]] and serves as a [[museum]]. The Rice Bank Building serves as an information center, while the Cosmopolitan Restaurant provides guests with [[European cuisine]]. In addition to those, there are many [[Foundation (engineering)|foundation]]s and walls that all serve as a chilling reminder that no town's glory can last forever. As of now, there is no mining activity going on. Most mines are privately owned, and even those that are not, are extremely hazardous. |
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== Geography == |
== Geography == |
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| ⚫ | Silver Reef is located at {{coord|37|15|10|N|113|22|04|W|city}}.<ref name=usgs/> It is approximately {{convert|15|mi}} northeast of St. George, Utah, and {{convert|1|mi}} west of Leeds. [[Dixie National Forest]] is also nearby. In the southwest corner of Utah, the town is at the lowest elevation area in the state. The region is dominated by sandstone [[butte]]s and mountains. Silver Reef is located on the east slope of the [[Pine Valley Mountain Wilderness]] and is near the Red Cliffs Recreation Area. |
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| ⚫ | After the [[First Transcontinental Railroad|transcontinental railroad]] was completed in 1869, many Chinese workers had nowhere to go. Some returned to China, while others remained in Utah. A group of 250 Chinese railroad workers set up a [[Chinatown]] in a level area just below Silver Reef. They ran their own businesses, had their own mayor and participated in their customs.<ref name="Silver Reef (Washington County)"/> |
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| ⚫ | Silver Reef is located at {{coord|37|15|10|N|113|22|04|W|city}}.<ref name=usgs/> It is |
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| ⚫ | After the [[First Transcontinental Railroad|transcontinental railroad]] was completed in 1869, many Chinese workers had nowhere to go. Some returned to China |
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== Geology == |
== Geology == |
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The area's soil and rocks are reddish from [[iron oxide]]. Silver Reef was built on the same sedimentary bedrock as St. George: [[Jurassic Period|Jurassic]], [[Triassic Period|Triassic]], and [[Permian Period|Permian]]-aged. Geologic pressures forced a long north-south section of white sandstone to buckle and stand up on its side, giving it the appearance of an ocean reef. <ref name = "Historic Sites Near St. George Utah Rentals">{{cite web |url= http://www.stgeorgeutahrentals.com/historic-sites.html|title= Historic Sites Near St. George Utah Rentals|author= |date= |work= |publisher= St. George Utah Rentals|accessdate=December 19, 2009}}</ref> |
The area's soil and rocks are reddish from [[iron oxide]]. Silver Reef was built on the same sedimentary bedrock as St. George: [[Jurassic Period|Jurassic]], [[Triassic Period|Triassic]], and [[Permian Period|Permian]]-aged. Geologic pressures forced a long north-south section of white sandstone to buckle and stand up on its side, giving it the appearance of an ocean reef. <ref name = "Historic Sites Near St. George Utah Rentals">{{cite web |url= http://www.stgeorgeutahrentals.com/historic-sites.html|title= Historic Sites Near St. George Utah Rentals|author= |date= |work= |publisher= St. George Utah Rentals|accessdate=December 19, 2009}}</ref> |
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The Pine Valley Mountains add to the area's beautiful red rock scenery. This |
The Pine Valley Mountains add to the area's beautiful red rock scenery. This part is at the intersection of the [[Mojave Desert]], the [[Basin and Range Province]], and the [[Colorado Plateau]]. It features a variety of plant species not seen in any singular region. The area has sage steppe and mountain brush, piñon-juniper woodland, and some [[Pinophyta|coniferous]] trees. [[Ponderosa pine]] can also be found.<ref name="Pine Valley Mountains"/> |
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Silver Reef is also located near the Red Cliffs Recreation Area |
Silver Reef is also located near the Red Cliffs Recreation Area, which was named after the color of its cliffs. The average elevation here is between {{convert|2000|ft}} and {{convert|3000|ft}}. Tucked against sandstone cliffs and right by Quail Creek, Red Cliffs is a surprise for most visitors. The area also has [[trace fossil|dinosaur tracks]] that date back to the early Jurassic Period.<ref name="Red Cliffs Recreational Area">{{cite web |url= http://www.blm.gov/ut/st/en/fo/st__george/recreation/day_use_areas/red_cliffs_recreation.html|title= Red Cliffs Recreational Area|author= |date= |work= |publisher= Utah Bureau of Land Management|accessdate=January 10, 2010}}</ref> |
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== Climate == |
== Climate == |
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| ⚫ | Silver Reef lies in one of the driest and hottest parts of the state of Utah; the temperature can rise well above {{convert|100|°F|°C}} during the summer. In winter, during the day, temperatures can sometimes be {{convert|50|°F|°C}} or higher, but night-time temperatures can occasionally drop to below {{convert|0|°F|°C}}. Silver Reef gets about {{convert|12|in|cm}} of precipitation annually. Snow in the area is rare, although it is not unheard of. On average, July is the warmest month, and December is the coolest. The highest recorded temperature was {{convert|114|°F|°C}} in July 2001, and the lowest on record is {{convert|-2|°F|°C}} in January 1963. The average wettest month is March. <ref name="Averages"/> |
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| ⚫ | Silver Reef lies in one of the driest and hottest parts of the state of Utah; the temperature can rise well above {{convert|100|°F|°C}} during the summer. In winter, during the day, temperatures can sometimes be {{convert|50|°F|°C}} or higher, but night-time temperatures can occasionally drop to below {{convert|0|°F|°C}}. Silver Reef gets about {{convert|12|in|cm}} of precipitation annually. Snow in the area is rare, although it is not unheard of. On average, July is the warmest month, and December is the coolest. The highest recorded temperature was {{convert|114|°F|°C}} in July 2001 |
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{{Infobox Weather |
{{Infobox Weather |
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== History == |
== History == |
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=== Discovery of silver === |
=== Discovery of silver === |
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| ⚫ | Nobody knows for sure when or how the silver at the site was discovered. The most accepted tale is that a [[prospector]] named John Kemple had been looking for [[ore]]s in the sandstone reefs in 1866. He took shelter in the Mormon settlement of [[Leeds, Utah]]. As soon as they welcomed him into their home, they got a fire going. Allegedly, Kemple saw a shiny stream ooze out of one of the overheated rocks. The next day he began to search for the silver. He found a little, but not enough to stay in the area. He then left for [[Nevada]].<ref name = "Legends">{{cite web |url= http://www.legendsofamerica.com/ut-silverreef.html|title=Silver Reef - Sandstone Ghost Town |author= |date= |work= |publisher=Legends of America |accessdate=November 25, 2009}}</ref> A few years later, John Kemple returned with a group of miners. He set up the Harrisburg Mining District and began developing a mine.<ref name="Silver Reef (Washington County)"/> |
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| ⚫ | Eventually, miners heard of the tale, but they discredited it, saying that it was impossible for silver to exist in sandstone. Then, a man known as "Metalliferous" Murphy headed to Utah from Nevada, to search for the rumored silver. When a group of miners gave him sandstone samples, he allegedly found silver in them. After some investigation, Murphy discovered that the samples had come from Silver Reef.<ref name="Silver Reef (Washington County)"/> There is no record of Murphy ever staking a claim, but he did attract the attention of miners. Soon after, silver was confirmed to be in the area, much to the disbelief of the miners who had discredited the stories.<ref name = "Legends"/> The silver that was mined in the first year of Silver Reef's history was taken to Pioche, Nevada for smelting.<ref name = "Mining in Washington County"/> |
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| ⚫ | Nobody knows for sure when or how the silver at the site was discovered. The most accepted tale is that a [[prospector]] named John Kemple had been looking for [[ore]]s in the sandstone reefs in 1866. He took shelter in the Mormon settlement of [[Leeds, Utah]]. As soon as they welcomed him into their home, they got a fire going. Allegedly, Kemple saw a shiny stream ooze out of one of the overheated rocks. The next day he began to search for the silver. He found a little, but not enough to stay in the area. He then left for [[Nevada]].<ref name = "Legends">{{cite web |url= http://www.legendsofamerica.com/ut-silverreef.html|title=Silver Reef - Sandstone Ghost Town |author= |date= |work= |publisher=Legends of America |accessdate=November 25, 2009}}</ref> A few years later, John Kemple returned with a group of miners. He set up the Harrisburg Mining District and began developing a mine. |
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| ⚫ | Eventually miners heard of the tale, but they discredited it, saying that it was impossible for silver to exist in sandstone. Then a man known as "Metalliferous" Murphy headed to Utah from Nevada to search for the rumored silver. When a group of miners gave him sandstone samples, he allegedly found silver in them. After some investigation, Murphy discovered that the samples had come from Silver Reef. |
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=== Establishing the town === |
=== Establishing the town === |
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| ⚫ | In 1875, news of the silver discovery reached the Walker brothers, two prominent bankers in [[Salt Lake City]]. They hired William T. Barbee to stake claims on their behalf. He staked 21 claims and published the discovery in ''[[The Salt Lake Tribune]]'', setting off an almost immediate [[silver rush]].<ref name = "Mining in Washington County"/> By late 1875, he set up a town known as Bonanza City. Some businesses then came into the area, inflating property values. Many miners, who were looking for cheaper land, set up a [[tent city]] north of the town and called it the "Rockpile."<ref name = "Dixie ">{{cite web |url= http://www.utahsdixie.com/silver_reef.html|title=A History of the Establishment of Silver Reef, Utah|author= |date= |work= Utah's Dixie History |publisher= |accessdate=November 21, 2009}} </ref> Mormons tried to claim the land that would become Silver Reef, but they could not hold on to it.<ref name = "Mining in Washington County"/> |
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| ⚫ | When the mines closed in nearby Pioche in November 1875, many of the miners and business owners came into the area.<ref name = "woodworkersauction"/> They changed the name of the town from the "Rockpile" to Silver Reef. As church construction in St. George ended, labor opportunities for the workers were available in Silver Reef. Employment opportunities were always welcome. Pine Valley Mills supplied most of the [[lumber]] used to construct the buildings. Mount Trumbull in the [[Arizona Strip]] also provided lumber.<ref name = "Mining in Washington County"/> |
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| ⚫ | In 1875 news of the silver discovery reached the Walker brothers, two prominent bankers in [[Salt Lake City]]. They hired William T. Barbee to stake claims on their behalf. He staked 21 claims and published the discovery in ''[[The Salt Lake Tribune]]'', setting off an almost immediate [[silver rush]].<ref name = "Mining in Washington County"/> By late 1875, he set up a town known as |
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| ⚫ | When the mines closed in nearby Pioche in November 1875, many of the miners and business owners came into the area. |
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=== The town === |
=== The town === |
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| ⚫ | The town sprang up practically overnight.<ref name = Silver Reef">{{cite web |url= http://www.utahtravelcenter.com/cities/silverreef/history.htm|title=Silver Reef - Silver Reef Utah|author=Bart C. Anderson |date= |work= |publisher= Utah Travel Center |accessdate=November 27, 2009}} </ref> Silver Reef began with one store at the intersection of the roads from Buckeye, White, Middle and East Reef.<ref name = "Silver Reef">{{cite book |title= Ghost Towns|last= DeJauregui|first= Ruth E.|authorlink= |coauthors= |year= 1988|publisher= Bison Books Corp.|location= |isbn= 0-517-65844-5|page= |pages= |url= |accessdate=December 17, 2009}}</ref> At its heyday, the town consisted of some hotels and [[boarding house|boarding house]]s, nine stores, six [[Western saloon | saloons]], five restaurants, a bank, two [[dance hall]]s, a newspaper called ''The Silver Echo'', a Chinatown, eight dry goods stores, and two [[cemetery | cemeteries]].<ref name="Legends"/> By 1879, its population had reached its maximum of 2,000 people. By then, it also had a horse race track, a [[brewery]], and a brass band.<ref name = "Legends"/> Even though it was surrounded by Mormon settlements, the town never had a Mormon church. A Catholic church was the only church located within the town.<ref name ="Legends"/> Most of the businesses in Silver Reef were situated in a mile-long Main Street. |
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| ⚫ | Even though Mormonism was not Silver Reef's main [[religion]], the town was tolerant towards Mormon values. A lot of the [[cotton]] and other items produced by Mormons in Washington County were hauled to Silver Reef. Many of the town's buildings were built by Mormon [[Wage labour|labor workers]]. In turn, the Mormons were grateful for the money and marketability of their goods. Reverend Lawrence Scanlon was invited to say Mass in the L.D.S. [[tabernacle]] in St. George. To help out, the Mormon choir learned [[Latin]] chants.<ref name="Silver Reef (Washington County)"/> When [[politics]] were involved, however, this tolerance was tarnished. The Mormons had belonged to the People's Party for years. The non-Mormons in Silver Reef belonged to the Liberty Party. As Silver Reef grew, the townspeople wanted Silver Reef to be the [[county seat]] of Washington County. This alarmed the members of the People's Party in the area, and they petitioned the [[Utah State Legislature|state legislature]] to change the Washington County line. This was done successfully.<ref name="Silver Reef (Washington County)"/> |
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| ⚫ | The town sprang up practically overnight. |
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| ⚫ | Even though Mormonism was not Silver Reef's main [[religion]], the |
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=== Crime and shootouts === |
=== Crime and shootouts === |
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| ⚫ | Although it had good relations with other towns, Silver Reef still had the usual mining camp problems of gambling, prostitution and murder.<ref name = "Silver Reef">{{cite book |title= Ghost Towns|last= DeJauregui|first= Ruth E.|authorlink= |coauthors= |year= 1988|publisher= Bison Books Corp.|location= |isbn= 0-517-65844-5|page= |pages= |url= |accessdate=December 17, 2009}}</ref> Some major [[shootout]]s occurred in Silver Reef. For example, town Marshal Johnny Diamond and Jack Truby, a mine guard, had a shootout over a minor misunderstanding. They killed each other. The fight started during court proceedings in a back room of a saloon. Diamond asked Truby to remove his hat. When Truby refused, they went outside and began shooting at each other. Soon they both lay dead.<ref>{{cite book |title= Cowboying: A Tough Job In A Hard Land|last= Beckstead|first= James|authorlink= |coauthors= |year= 1991|publisher= University of Utah Press|location= Salt Lake City, Utah|isbn= 0-87480-378-0|page= |pages= |url= |accessdate=December 10, 2009}}</ref> |
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| ⚫ | Another shootout happened on December 1, 1878, in the early morning at Cassidy's Silver Reef Saloon. The fight was between Henry Clark and Skyes Griffen. Witnesses gave conflicting statements about what happened. It appeared that Griffen, a [[Faro (card game)|faro]] dealer at the saloon, and Clark, a regular patron, had been fighting for some time. It was reported that the shooting started when Griffen argued about taking a bet from Clark. Griffen then pulled a pistol and shot Clark. Some witnesses say Clark pulled out a gun and shot Griffen before both fell down. Other witnesses say that after Clark went down, other patrons in the saloon, including Clarks' father, John Clark, beat Griffen senseless and shot him.<ref name = "Saloon Shootout Leaves Two Dead">{{cite web |url= http://wchsutah.org/documents/WCHSNewsletter1997Spring.pdf|title= Saloon Shootout Leaves Two Dead|author= |date= |work= |publisher= wchsutah|accessdate=December 19, 2009}}</ref> |
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| ⚫ | Although it had good relations with other towns, Silver Reef still had the usual mining camp problems of gambling, prostitution |
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| ⚫ | Another shootout happened on December 1, 1878, in the early morning at Cassidy's Silver Reef Saloon. The fight was between Henry Clark and Skyes Griffen. Witnesses gave conflicting statements about what happened. It appeared that Griffen, a [[Faro (card game)|faro]] dealer at the saloon, and Clark, a regular patron, had been fighting for some time. It was reported that the shooting started when Griffen argued about taking a bet from Clark. Griffen then pulled a pistol and shot Clark. Some witnesses say Clark pulled out a gun and shot Griffen before both fell down. Other witnesses say that after Clark went down, other patrons in the saloon, including Clarks' father John Clark, beat Griffen senseless and shot him. |
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=== Population === |
=== Population === |
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== Decline == |
== Decline == |
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| ⚫ | In 1879, a fire swept through the booming community.<ref name ="Legends"/> Silver Reef endured the hardship, but the town's downfall was on its way. Three things contributed to the ultimate demise of the town. First, the world silver market dropped, which gave the silver mining community a hard blow. Second, the [[mine shaft]]s were filling with water faster than it could be pumped out. Finally, the mine [[Shareholder|stockholder]]s lowered wages until the miners could not afford to live there.<ref name = "woodworkersauction">{{cite web |url= http://www.woodworkersauction.com/silverreef.htm|title=Silver Reef, Utah |author= |date= |work= |publisher=Woodworkers Auction |accessdate=November 25, 2009}}</ref> After Silver Reef's demise, many of the buildings were purchased for lumber and building stone. One of the buyers that dismantled his purchased building came across $10,000 in [[gold]]. News of the find spread quickly, and almost all of the buildings in Silver Reef were taken apart in hopes of finding more gold. Nobody else got lucky.<ref name="Silver Reef (Washington County)"/> A fire that broke out in 1908 destroyed almost everything else.<ref name = "Legends"/> |
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| ⚫ | In 1879 a |
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=== Closure of the mines === |
=== Closure of the mines === |
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| ⚫ | By 1884, most of the mines were permanently closed and town life became dull. Many of the [[merchant]]s went bankrupt and left town. The last mine was closed in 1891. Several people attempted to revive the town in 1898, 1909, 1916 and 1950, but all of those attempts failed.<ref name = "woodworkersauction"/> In all, the Silver Reef mines produced about $25 million worth of [[silver]] ore.<ref name = "Legends"/> Between 1891 and 1901, another $250,000 of silver ore was taken.<ref name="Silver Reef (Washington County)">{{cite book |title= The Historical Guide to Utah's Ghost Towns|last= Carr|first= Stephen|authorlink= |year= 1972|publisher= Western Epics|location= Salt Lake City, Utah|isbn= 978-0-91474-030-8|pages=138–142|}}</ref> |
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| ⚫ | By 1884, most of the mines were permanently closed and town life became dull. Many of the [[merchant]]s went bankrupt and left town. The last mine was closed in 1891. Several people attempted to revive the town in 1898, 1909, 1916 |
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== Silver Reef today == |
== Silver Reef today == |
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| ⚫ | Today, the Wells Fargo office is on the National Register of Historic Places, and is currently a museum. The old bank is now a gift shop. Some of the area has been intentionally preserved for its history. Besides the Wells Fargo office and the bank, there are many original buildings that remain standing as a reminder that no mining community can last forever. In a canyon west of the old town, a [[hiking trail]] leads visitors to one of the old [[kiln]]s used to process silver.<ref name = "Dixie "/> |
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| ⚫ | Today the Wells Fargo office is on the |
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== Things to do == |
== Things to do == |
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| ⚫ | There are many things for visitors to do in Silver Reef. One can look around the old Wells Fargo office, which is now a museum, or stop by the Rice Bank Building, once used as a makeshift prison in Silver Reef's heyday. Visitors can also patronize the Cosmopolitan Restaurant, which serves European cuisine.<ref name="Legends"/> There are many remnants of houses and other buildings, and markers indicating where some buildings once stood, such as the Elkhorn Saloon. |
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| ⚫ | There are many things for |
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=== Sights in the town === |
=== Sights in the town === |
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==== Wells Fargo office ==== |
==== Wells Fargo office ==== |
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[[File:Wells Fargo and Company Express Building.jpg|thumb|Wells Fargo building in 1968]] |
[[File:Wells Fargo and Company Express Building.jpg|thumb|Wells Fargo building in 1968]] |
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After the downfall of Silver Reef, the Wells Fargo office was used as a residence until the late |
After the downfall of Silver Reef, the Wells Fargo office was used as a residence until the late 1940s. After that, it was placed on the National Register of Historic Places. Today, the Wells Fargo office is used as an art gallery and a museum.<ref name = "Legends">{{cite web |url= http://www.legendsofamerica.com/ut-silverreef.html|title=Silver Reef - Sandstone Ghost Town |author= |date= |work= |publisher=Legends of America |accessdate=November 25, 2009}}</ref> The old office faced Main Street in the center of town. |
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==== Rice Bank Building ==== |
==== Rice Bank Building ==== |
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The Rice Bank Building was torn apart and then rebuilt to be used as a jail during a major mining dispute in the late 1800s. During the conflict one miner was ran out of town, and another was tarred and feathered. The bank/jail got so full, a line had to be drawn around it. The rules were whoever crossed the line would be threatened with shooting. In 1991 the bank building was completely restored. |
The Rice Bank Building was torn apart and then rebuilt to be used as a jail during a major mining dispute in the late 1800s. During the conflict, one miner was ran out of town, and another was tarred and feathered. The bank/jail got so full, a line had to be drawn around it. The rules were whoever crossed the line, they would be threatened with shooting. In 1991, the bank building was completely restored.<ref name = "Legends">{{cite web |url= http://www.legendsofamerica.com/ut-silverreef.html|title=Silver Reef - Sandstone Ghost Town |author= |date= |work= |publisher=Legends of America |accessdate=November 25, 2009}}</ref> |
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==== Cosmopolitan Restaurant ==== |
==== Cosmopolitan Restaurant ==== |
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| ⚫ | A restaurant called the Cosmopolitan Restaurant is back in business today, catering to visitors. It appears to be restored to what it was in Silver Reef's heyday. The restaurant serves European cuisine.<ref name = "Legends">{{cite web |url= http://www.legendsofamerica.com/ut-silverreef.html|title=Silver Reef - Sandstone Ghost Town |author= |date= |work= |publisher=Legends of America |accessdate=November 25, 2009}}</ref> |
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| ⚫ | A restaurant called the Cosmopolitan Restaurant is back in business today, catering to visitors. It appears to be restored |
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==== Miscellaneous ==== |
==== Miscellaneous ==== |
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| ⚫ | Behind the Rice Bank Building is a [[magazine (artillery)|powder house]]. It now serves as an information center. There are many original buildings that remain standing, including the Clancy Market, McCormick Store, the two-story Harrison House hotel,<ref name = "Silver Reef, Utah">{{cite web |url= http://freepages.history.rootsweb.ancestry.com/~gtusa/usa/ut/silver-reef.htm|title=Silver Reef, Utah |author=Gary B. Speck |date= |work= |publisher=Ancestry.com|accessdate=December 18, 2009}}</ref> and some of the mining buildings. Main Street, once a mile long, has been reduced to several hundred yards in length, and is surrounded by private homes. Nearby are the remains of both a Catholic and a Protestant cemetery.<ref name = "Legends">{{cite web |url= http://www.legendsofamerica.com/ut-silverreef.html|title=Silver Reef - Sandstone Ghost Town |author= |date= |work= |publisher=Legends of America |accessdate=November 25, 2009}}</ref> Another interesting sight is the Elkhorn Saloon, formerly a bustling saloon with all the usual problems of bar brawls and gambling. There is nothing left of the saloon today.<ref name="Silver Reef (Washington County)"/> |
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| ⚫ | Behind the Rice Bank Building is a [[magazine (artillery)|powder house]]. It now serves as an information center. There are many original buildings that remain standing, including the Clancy Market, McCormick Store, the two-story Harrison House hotel,<ref name = "Silver Reef, Utah">{{cite web |url= http://freepages.history.rootsweb.ancestry.com/~gtusa/usa/ut/silver-reef.htm|title=Silver Reef, Utah |author=Gary B. Speck |date= |work= |publisher=Ancestry.com|accessdate=December 18, 2009}}</ref> and some of the mining buildings. Main Street, once a mile long, has been reduced to several hundred yards in length and is surrounded by private homes. Nearby are the remains of both a Catholic and a Protestant cemetery. |
||
=== Other === |
=== Other === |
||
| ⚫ | Besides exploring the ghost town, visitors can also explore the vast red rock country surrounding Silver Reef, or hike in the adjacent Pine Valley Mountains.<ref name = "Pine Valley Mountains">{{cite web |url= http://www.utahforests.org/pinevalley.html|title= Pine Valley Mountains|author= |date= |work= |publisher= Utah forests|accessdate=January 1, 2010}}</ref> [[Backpacking (wilderness)|Backpacking]], camping, fishing, and hunting are available.<ref name = "The Pine Valley Mountains">{{cite web |url= http://www.utah.com/stgeorge/pine_valley.htm|title= The Pine Valley Mountains|author= |date= |work= |publisher= Utah|accessdate=January 10, 2010}}</ref> Almost next-door to Silver Reef is Red Cliffs Recreation Area. Visitors can [[picnic]] in a designated area with [[Populus sect. Aegiros|cottonwood trees]]. A half-mile hike reaches the Red Cliffs Anasazi Site, the remains of an [[Ancient Pueblo Peoples|Anasazi]] habitation. The {{convert|6|mi|adj=on}} Red Reef Trail leads to the Cottonwood Wilderness Study Area. The Orson Adams house gives a taste of [[American pioneer|pioneer]] history, and [[dinosaur]] [[trace fossil|footprints]] that date back to the early [[Jurassic Period]] can be found in the area.<ref name="Red Cliffs Recreational Area"/> |
||
| ⚫ | Besides exploring the ghost town, visitors can also explore the vast red rock country surrounding Silver Reef, or hike in the adjacent Pine Valley Mountains. |
||
== Notable residents == |
== Notable residents == |
||
Maximillian Parker, the father of Robert LeRoy Parker (better known as [[Butch Cassidy]]), worked in the mines during tough times. |
Maximillian Parker, the father of Robert LeRoy Parker (better known as [[Butch Cassidy]]), worked in the mines during tough times.<ref name = "Saddle Up And Head Out To Butch Cassidy Territory">{{cite web |url= http://travel.latimes.com/articles/la-tr-butchsites20apr20|title= Saddle Up And Head Out To Butch Cassidy Territory|author= Susan Spano|date= |work= |publisher= Latimes|accessdate=December 19, 2009}}</ref> |
||
Some people claim that Butch Cassidy did not die in Bolivia, but lived his twilight years in Silver Reef, occasionally visited by the [[Sundance Kid]], who was also allegedly killed in the Bolivia shootout, and the Kid's paramour, [[Etta Place]]. |
Some people claim that Butch Cassidy did not die in Bolivia, but lived his twilight years in Silver Reef, occasionally visited by the [[Sundance Kid]], who was also allegedly killed in the Bolivia shootout, and the Kid's [[paramour]], [[Etta Place]].<ref name = "Saddle Up And Head Out To Butch Cassidy Territory">{{cite web |url= http://travel.latimes.com/articles/la-tr-butchsites20apr20|title= Saddle Up And Head Out To Butch Cassidy Territory|author= Susan Spano|date= |work= |publisher= Latimes|accessdate=December 19, 2009}}</ref> |
||
== See also == |
== See also == |
||
Revision as of 12:52, 7 April 2010
Silver Reef | |
|---|---|
 Silver Reef in the 1880s | |
| Country | United States |
| State | Utah |
| County | Washington |
| Founded | 1875 |
| Abandoned | 1888 |
| Named for | Silver in sandstone reefs |
| Elevation | 3,796 ft (1,157 m) |
| GNIS feature ID | 1445602[1] |
Silver Reef is a ghost town in Washington County, Utah, United States. Located about 15 miles (24 km) northeast of St. George and 1 mile (1.6 km) west of Leeds, Silver Reef got its start when silver was found in sandstone. Initially, miners dismissed the claim, since silver in sandstone was unheard of. However, in 1875, when two Salt Lake City bankers sent William Barbee to the site to stake claims, he staked 21 claims.[2] Almost overnight, miners from around the state came to the site to claim their fortune.[3] Silver Reef was first known as the "Rockpile", and was located just north of William Barbee's town called Bonanza City. When mines closed in Pioche, Nevada, businessmen came to the Rockpile and set up businesses. Eventually, the name of the town was changed to Silver Reef.[4]
By 1879, the town's population had reached approximately 2,000 people. The town had a mile-long Main Street lined with businesses that had moved there from Pioche. These businesses included a Wells Fargo office, which is now a museum, the Cosmopolitan Restaurant, and many other buildings. Interestingly enough, Silver Reef never had a Mormon Church. The only church in town was a Catholic Church. 1879 was also a very terrible year for Silver Reef; a fire swept through the town and destroyed many businesses.[5] This did not stop Silver Reef from forging ahead; it rebuilt its buildings and continued mining operations.
For a decade, Silver Reef was one of the largest and most important towns in Utah's Dixie. It was also one of the roughest, with constant shootouts, bar brawls, prostitution, gambling and murder.[6] However, as with most mining towns, Silver Reef's glory had to come to an end. As silver prices dropped, stockholders lowered miners' wages until they could not afford to live in Silver Reef. Also, the miners had accidentally dug under the water table, which caused many of the mines to become flooded. The mines began to close in 1884, and as they disappeared, so did Silver Reef's once flourishing population. The closure of the last mine in 1888 spelled the beginning of the end for Silver Reef.[7] In 1900, most of the buildings in Silver Reef were either sent to Leeds or scrapped. A fire in 1908 destroyed almost everything else.[5]
Today, several buildings still stand in Silver Reef. The Wells Fargo office is on the National Historic Register and serves as a museum. The Rice Bank Building serves as an information center, while the Cosmopolitan Restaurant provides guests with European cuisine. In addition to those, there are many foundations and walls that all serve as a chilling reminder that no town's glory can last forever. As of now, there is no mining activity going on. Most mines are privately owned, and even those that are not, are extremely hazardous.
Geography
Silver Reef is located at 37°15′10″N 113°22′04″W / 37.25278°N 113.36778°WInvalid arguments have been passed to the {{#coordinates:}} function.[1] It is approximately 15 miles (24 km) northeast of St. George, Utah, and 1 mile (1.6 km) west of Leeds. Dixie National Forest is also nearby. In the southwest corner of Utah, the town is at the lowest elevation area in the state. The region is dominated by sandstone buttes and mountains. Silver Reef is located on the east slope of the Pine Valley Mountain Wilderness and is near the Red Cliffs Recreation Area.
After the transcontinental railroad was completed in 1869, many Chinese workers had nowhere to go. Some returned to China, while others remained in Utah. A group of 250 Chinese railroad workers set up a Chinatown in a level area just below Silver Reef. They ran their own businesses, had their own mayor and participated in their customs.[8]
Geology
The area's soil and rocks are reddish from iron oxide. Silver Reef was built on the same sedimentary bedrock as St. George: Jurassic, Triassic, and Permian-aged. Geologic pressures forced a long north-south section of white sandstone to buckle and stand up on its side, giving it the appearance of an ocean reef. [9]
The Pine Valley Mountains add to the area's beautiful red rock scenery. This part is at the intersection of the Mojave Desert, the Basin and Range Province, and the Colorado Plateau. It features a variety of plant species not seen in any singular region. The area has sage steppe and mountain brush, piñon-juniper woodland, and some coniferous trees. Ponderosa pine can also be found.[10]
Silver Reef is also located near the Red Cliffs Recreation Area, which was named after the color of its cliffs. The average elevation here is between 2,000 feet (610 m) and 3,000 feet (910 m). Tucked against sandstone cliffs and right by Quail Creek, Red Cliffs is a surprise for most visitors. The area also has dinosaur tracks that date back to the early Jurassic Period.[11]
Climate
Silver Reef lies in one of the driest and hottest parts of the state of Utah; the temperature can rise well above 100 °F (38 °C) during the summer. In winter, during the day, temperatures can sometimes be 50 °F (10 °C) or higher, but night-time temperatures can occasionally drop to below 0 °F (−18 °C). Silver Reef gets about 12 inches (30 cm) of precipitation annually. Snow in the area is rare, although it is not unheard of. On average, July is the warmest month, and December is the coolest. The highest recorded temperature was 114 °F (46 °C) in July 2001, and the lowest on record is −2 °F (−19 °C) in January 1963. The average wettest month is March. [12]
| Climate data for Silver Reef, Utah | |||||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Month | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | Year |
| Source: weather.com [12] | |||||||||||||
History
Discovery of silver
Nobody knows for sure when or how the silver at the site was discovered. The most accepted tale is that a prospector named John Kemple had been looking for ores in the sandstone reefs in 1866. He took shelter in the Mormon settlement of Leeds, Utah. As soon as they welcomed him into their home, they got a fire going. Allegedly, Kemple saw a shiny stream ooze out of one of the overheated rocks. The next day he began to search for the silver. He found a little, but not enough to stay in the area. He then left for Nevada.[5] A few years later, John Kemple returned with a group of miners. He set up the Harrisburg Mining District and began developing a mine.[8]
Eventually, miners heard of the tale, but they discredited it, saying that it was impossible for silver to exist in sandstone. Then, a man known as "Metalliferous" Murphy headed to Utah from Nevada, to search for the rumored silver. When a group of miners gave him sandstone samples, he allegedly found silver in them. After some investigation, Murphy discovered that the samples had come from Silver Reef.[8] There is no record of Murphy ever staking a claim, but he did attract the attention of miners. Soon after, silver was confirmed to be in the area, much to the disbelief of the miners who had discredited the stories.[5] The silver that was mined in the first year of Silver Reef's history was taken to Pioche, Nevada for smelting.[2]
Establishing the town
In 1875, news of the silver discovery reached the Walker brothers, two prominent bankers in Salt Lake City. They hired William T. Barbee to stake claims on their behalf. He staked 21 claims and published the discovery in The Salt Lake Tribune, setting off an almost immediate silver rush.[2] By late 1875, he set up a town known as Bonanza City. Some businesses then came into the area, inflating property values. Many miners, who were looking for cheaper land, set up a tent city north of the town and called it the "Rockpile."[4] Mormons tried to claim the land that would become Silver Reef, but they could not hold on to it.[2]
When the mines closed in nearby Pioche in November 1875, many of the miners and business owners came into the area.[7] They changed the name of the town from the "Rockpile" to Silver Reef. As church construction in St. George ended, labor opportunities for the workers were available in Silver Reef. Employment opportunities were always welcome. Pine Valley Mills supplied most of the lumber used to construct the buildings. Mount Trumbull in the Arizona Strip also provided lumber.[2]
The town
The town sprang up practically overnight.[3] Silver Reef began with one store at the intersection of the roads from Buckeye, White, Middle and East Reef.[6] At its heyday, the town consisted of some hotels and boarding houses, nine stores, six saloons, five restaurants, a bank, two dance halls, a newspaper called The Silver Echo, a Chinatown, eight dry goods stores, and two cemeteries.[5] By 1879, its population had reached its maximum of 2,000 people. By then, it also had a horse race track, a brewery, and a brass band.[5] Even though it was surrounded by Mormon settlements, the town never had a Mormon church. A Catholic church was the only church located within the town.[5] Most of the businesses in Silver Reef were situated in a mile-long Main Street.
Even though Mormonism was not Silver Reef's main religion, the town was tolerant towards Mormon values. A lot of the cotton and other items produced by Mormons in Washington County were hauled to Silver Reef. Many of the town's buildings were built by Mormon labor workers. In turn, the Mormons were grateful for the money and marketability of their goods. Reverend Lawrence Scanlon was invited to say Mass in the L.D.S. tabernacle in St. George. To help out, the Mormon choir learned Latin chants.[8] When politics were involved, however, this tolerance was tarnished. The Mormons had belonged to the People's Party for years. The non-Mormons in Silver Reef belonged to the Liberty Party. As Silver Reef grew, the townspeople wanted Silver Reef to be the county seat of Washington County. This alarmed the members of the People's Party in the area, and they petitioned the state legislature to change the Washington County line. This was done successfully.[8]
Crime and shootouts
Although it had good relations with other towns, Silver Reef still had the usual mining camp problems of gambling, prostitution and murder.[6] Some major shootouts occurred in Silver Reef. For example, town Marshal Johnny Diamond and Jack Truby, a mine guard, had a shootout over a minor misunderstanding. They killed each other. The fight started during court proceedings in a back room of a saloon. Diamond asked Truby to remove his hat. When Truby refused, they went outside and began shooting at each other. Soon they both lay dead.[13]
Another shootout happened on December 1, 1878, in the early morning at Cassidy's Silver Reef Saloon. The fight was between Henry Clark and Skyes Griffen. Witnesses gave conflicting statements about what happened. It appeared that Griffen, a faro dealer at the saloon, and Clark, a regular patron, had been fighting for some time. It was reported that the shooting started when Griffen argued about taking a bet from Clark. Griffen then pulled a pistol and shot Clark. Some witnesses say Clark pulled out a gun and shot Griffen before both fell down. Other witnesses say that after Clark went down, other patrons in the saloon, including Clarks' father, John Clark, beat Griffen senseless and shot him.[14]
Population
| Year | Population |
|---|---|
| 1875 | 250 |
| 1876 | 1000 [2] |
| 1877 | 1040 |
| 1878 | 1500 |
| 1879 | 2000 |
| 1880 | 1900 |
| 1881 | 1600 |
| 1882 | 1200 |
| 1883 | 1100 |
| 1884 | 900 |
| 1885 | 800 |
| 1886 | 750 |
| 1887 | 500 |
| 1888 | 450 |
| 1889 | 300 |
| 1890 | 177 [15] |
| 1891 | 100 |
| 1892 | 80 |
| 1893 | 65 |
Decline
In 1879, a fire swept through the booming community.[5] Silver Reef endured the hardship, but the town's downfall was on its way. Three things contributed to the ultimate demise of the town. First, the world silver market dropped, which gave the silver mining community a hard blow. Second, the mine shafts were filling with water faster than it could be pumped out. Finally, the mine stockholders lowered wages until the miners could not afford to live there.[7] After Silver Reef's demise, many of the buildings were purchased for lumber and building stone. One of the buyers that dismantled his purchased building came across $10,000 in gold. News of the find spread quickly, and almost all of the buildings in Silver Reef were taken apart in hopes of finding more gold. Nobody else got lucky.[8] A fire that broke out in 1908 destroyed almost everything else.[5]
Closure of the mines
By 1884, most of the mines were permanently closed and town life became dull. Many of the merchants went bankrupt and left town. The last mine was closed in 1891. Several people attempted to revive the town in 1898, 1909, 1916 and 1950, but all of those attempts failed.[7] In all, the Silver Reef mines produced about $25 million worth of silver ore.[5] Between 1891 and 1901, another $250,000 of silver ore was taken.[8]
Silver Reef today
Today, the Wells Fargo office is on the National Register of Historic Places, and is currently a museum. The old bank is now a gift shop. Some of the area has been intentionally preserved for its history. Besides the Wells Fargo office and the bank, there are many original buildings that remain standing as a reminder that no mining community can last forever. In a canyon west of the old town, a hiking trail leads visitors to one of the old kilns used to process silver.[4]
Things to do
There are many things for visitors to do in Silver Reef. One can look around the old Wells Fargo office, which is now a museum, or stop by the Rice Bank Building, once used as a makeshift prison in Silver Reef's heyday. Visitors can also patronize the Cosmopolitan Restaurant, which serves European cuisine.[5] There are many remnants of houses and other buildings, and markers indicating where some buildings once stood, such as the Elkhorn Saloon.
Sights in the town
Some interesting sites in the old ghost town include:
Wells Fargo office
After the downfall of Silver Reef, the Wells Fargo office was used as a residence until the late 1940s. After that, it was placed on the National Register of Historic Places. Today, the Wells Fargo office is used as an art gallery and a museum.[5] The old office faced Main Street in the center of town.
Rice Bank Building
The Rice Bank Building was torn apart and then rebuilt to be used as a jail during a major mining dispute in the late 1800s. During the conflict, one miner was ran out of town, and another was tarred and feathered. The bank/jail got so full, a line had to be drawn around it. The rules were whoever crossed the line, they would be threatened with shooting. In 1991, the bank building was completely restored.[5]
Cosmopolitan Restaurant
A restaurant called the Cosmopolitan Restaurant is back in business today, catering to visitors. It appears to be restored to what it was in Silver Reef's heyday. The restaurant serves European cuisine.[5]
Miscellaneous
Behind the Rice Bank Building is a powder house. It now serves as an information center. There are many original buildings that remain standing, including the Clancy Market, McCormick Store, the two-story Harrison House hotel,[15] and some of the mining buildings. Main Street, once a mile long, has been reduced to several hundred yards in length, and is surrounded by private homes. Nearby are the remains of both a Catholic and a Protestant cemetery.[5] Another interesting sight is the Elkhorn Saloon, formerly a bustling saloon with all the usual problems of bar brawls and gambling. There is nothing left of the saloon today.[8]
Other
Besides exploring the ghost town, visitors can also explore the vast red rock country surrounding Silver Reef, or hike in the adjacent Pine Valley Mountains.[10] Backpacking, camping, fishing, and hunting are available.[16] Almost next-door to Silver Reef is Red Cliffs Recreation Area. Visitors can picnic in a designated area with cottonwood trees. A half-mile hike reaches the Red Cliffs Anasazi Site, the remains of an Anasazi habitation. The 6-mile (9.7 km) Red Reef Trail leads to the Cottonwood Wilderness Study Area. The Orson Adams house gives a taste of pioneer history, and dinosaur footprints that date back to the early Jurassic Period can be found in the area.[11]
Notable residents
Maximillian Parker, the father of Robert LeRoy Parker (better known as Butch Cassidy), worked in the mines during tough times.[17]
Some people claim that Butch Cassidy did not die in Bolivia, but lived his twilight years in Silver Reef, occasionally visited by the Sundance Kid, who was also allegedly killed in the Bolivia shootout, and the Kid's paramour, Etta Place.[17]
See also
Notes
- ^ a b c U.S. Geological Survey Geographic Names Information System: Silver Reef
- ^ a b c d e f Alder, Douglas D. (1996). A History of Washington County. Utah State Historical Society. ISBN 0-913738-13-1.
{{cite book}}:|access-date=requires|url=(help); Unknown parameter|coauthors=ignored (|author=suggested) (help) - ^ a b Bart C. Anderson. "Silver Reef - Silver Reef Utah". Utah Travel Center. Retrieved November 27, 2009.
- ^ a b c "A History of the Establishment of Silver Reef, Utah". Utah's Dixie History. Retrieved November 21, 2009.
- ^ a b c d e f g h i j k l m n o "Silver Reef - Sandstone Ghost Town". Legends of America. Retrieved November 25, 2009.
- ^ a b c DeJauregui, Ruth E. (1988). Ghost Towns. Bison Books Corp. ISBN 0-517-65844-5.
{{cite book}}:|access-date=requires|url=(help); Cite has empty unknown parameter:|coauthors=(help) - ^ a b c d "Silver Reef, Utah". Woodworkers Auction. Retrieved November 25, 2009.
- ^ a b c d e f g h Carr, Stephen (1972). The Historical Guide to Utah's Ghost Towns. Salt Lake City, Utah: Western Epics. pp. 138–142. ISBN 978-0-91474-030-8.
{{cite book}}: Cite has empty unknown parameter:|1=(help) - ^ "Historic Sites Near St. George Utah Rentals". St. George Utah Rentals. Retrieved December 19, 2009.
- ^ a b "Pine Valley Mountains". Utah forests. Retrieved January 1, 2010.
- ^ a b "Red Cliffs Recreational Area". Utah Bureau of Land Management. Retrieved January 10, 2010.
- ^ a b "Monthly Averages for Leeds, Utah (Silver Reef)". The Weather Channel.
- ^ Beckstead, James (1991). Cowboying: A Tough Job In A Hard Land. Salt Lake City, Utah: University of Utah Press. ISBN 0-87480-378-0.
{{cite book}}:|access-date=requires|url=(help); Cite has empty unknown parameter:|coauthors=(help) - ^ "Saloon Shootout Leaves Two Dead" (PDF). wchsutah. Retrieved December 19, 2009.
- ^ a b Gary B. Speck. "Silver Reef, Utah". Ancestry.com. Retrieved December 18, 2009.
- ^ "The Pine Valley Mountains". Utah. Retrieved January 10, 2010.
- ^ a b Susan Spano. "Saddle Up And Head Out To Butch Cassidy Territory". Latimes. Retrieved December 19, 2009.
Further reading
- Stucki, Alfred (1966). A historical study of Silver Reef : Southern Utah mining town. Brigham Young University. Dept. of History Brigham Young University. OCLC 289770565.
- Mariger, Marietta (1952). Saga of three towns, Harrisburg, Leeds, Silver Reef. Panguitch: Garfield County News. OCLC 228784421.
- Beal, Wilma (1987). My Story of Silver Reef. St. George: Heritage Press. OCLC 33478865.
- Eckman, Anne (2002). History of Washington County. Salt Lake City: Daughters of Utah Pioneers. OCLC 52206962.
External links
- Silver Reef at Washington County Historical Society
- Silver Reef at GhostTowns.com
- Historical Silver Reef, Utah!
Municipalities and communities of Washington County, Utah, United States | ||
|---|---|---|
| Cities |  | |
| Towns | ||
| CDPs | ||
| Unincorporated communities | ||
| Ghost towns | ||
| Indian reservation | ||
| Footnotes | ‡This populated place also has portions in an adjacent county or counties | |