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Washington Nevada

Categories Nevada History

Nevada Nye County » Washington Nevada

Washington, a once-promising mining camp in Nevada’s history, offers a compelling narrative of boom, bust, and resilience. Nestled in Nye County, it saw its inception with silver discoveries in the 1860s and transformed briefly into an agricultural hub before succumbing to ghost town status.

Washington Nevada

Washington Nevada Overview

Washington’s story began with silver ore discoveries, leading to a bustling camp with saloons, stores, and even the first billiard hall in Nye County. However, its mining prospects dwindled, and the inhabitants turned to agriculture, cultivating root vegetables and cabbage. Despite a temporary mining revival in the early 20th century, Washington eventually faded into obscurity.

Learn more about Ghost Town in Nevada and Ghost Towns in the Southwest.

Year Established/Founded

The townsite was platted in 1863, following silver ore discoveries in the preceding years.

Washington Nevada History

Washington’s early years were marked by rapid development and a brief economic boom. However, by 1864, the ore supply diminished, causing many to leave. The remaining residents pivoted to agriculture, exploiting the canyon’s fertile soil. This agricultural period was short-lived, and by the 1880s, Washington was largely abandoned. The Warner Mining and Milling Company’s attempt to rejuvenate mining in 1918 brought some activity, but by 1957, Washington had returned to its ghost town status.

Timeline

  • 1860: Initial silver ore discoveries in Washington Canyon.
  • 1863: Formation of the townsite, leading to the establishment of businesses.
  • 1864: Decline of mining activities.
  • 1870 – 1872: Brief silver revival, marked by the operation of the Washington Post Office.
  • 1918 – 1922: Warner Mining and Milling Company operations.
  • 1956 – 1957: Last known mining activity in the area.

Mines

The Warner mine was the primary site of mining activities, especially during the camp’s revival periods.

Railroads

Click here to view the railroads in Nevada.

Post Office

Operated during brief periods of resurgence: Jul. 29, 1870 – Aug. 27, 1872.

View the list and history of Nevada Post Offices.

Newspaper

Learn more about Nevada Newspapers

The Population of Washington Nevada

Peaked at over 300 during its early mining boom but dwindled following the decline in mining activities.

Elevation

Location

  • Situated in Nye County, distinct from Washington in Storey County.
  • County: Nye County.

GPS Coordinates

39°09’36.4″N 117°16’26.4″W.

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Photos and Videos

Today, Washington is a ghost town, with sparse ruins hinting at its once-active past. The area, however, remains a point of interest for history enthusiasts and those curious about Nevada’s mining heritage.

Washington’s transition from a promising mining camp to an agricultural settlement, and eventually to a ghost town, mirrors the volatile nature of such communities in the American West. Its brief periods of prosperity, interspersed with long stretches of quietude, offer a poignant reminder of the transient glory of mining towns.

References Used

Click here to view our list of History of the Southwest – Books and Online Resources to learn more about our amazing area!