Chloride California
Nestled in the heart of the Golden State, Chloride, California boasts a rich history rooted in mining, resilience, and a strong sense of community. This once-thriving mining town, with its rugged terrain and storied past, offers a glimpse into a bygone era of American life. Join us as we journey through Chloride’s history, from its humble beginnings to the present day, and explore the wealth of commodities unearthed in its mines, the town’s population, elevation, and more.
Chloride California Overview
Chloride is a small, unincorporated community located in Inyo County, California. This former mining town was established in the late 19th century and gained prominence as a hub for silver and copper mining. Over the years, Chloride has witnessed a decline in population due to the closure of mines, but its rich history and picturesque landscapes continue to attract visitors and history enthusiasts alike.
Learn more about Ghost Town in California and Ghost Towns in the Southwest.
Timeline
- 1860s: Prospectors discovered silver and copper deposits in the area.
- 1873: Chloride was officially established as a mining town.
- 1880s: The town’s population peaked at around 2,000 residents.
- 1893: The Chloride Post Office was established.
- 1905: The Chloride Chronicle, the town’s newspaper, began publication.
- 1910s: Mining operations dwindled due to decreasing ore quality and economic factors.
- 1920s: The population significantly declined, and many businesses closed.
- 1960s: The last remaining mines ceased operations.
Mines
Chloride’s mines were known for their rich deposits of silver, copper, and lesser quantities of gold, lead, and zinc.
Post Office
Chloride had a Post Office, established in 1893, which operated until the early 20th century.
View the list and history of Nevada Post Offices.
Newspaper
The town’s newspaper, The Chloride Chronicle, began publication in 1905 and continued for several years, chronicling the town’s growth and mining activities.
The Population of Chloride California
At its peak in the 1880s, Chloride had a population of around 2,000 residents. As of the 2020 Census, the population has significantly decreased to just a few dozen people.
Elevation
Chloride is situated at an elevation of approximately 4,000 feet above sea level.
Location
Chloride is located in Inyo County, California, near the Nevada border.
GPS Coordinates
The GPS coordinates are 37.5136° N, 117.8732° W.
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Photos and Videos
None at this time.
References Used
Click here to view our list of History of the Southwest – Books and Online Resources to learn more about our amazing area!