"A Murder A Week" - The History Of Cerro Gordo, California

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  • เผยแพร่เมื่อ 26 ก.ย. 2024
  • Cerro Gordo was once California's largest producer of silver. The town produced nearly $500 million of minerals during it's heyday. It was also a lawless town. During it's peak, the town averaged a murder per week and a local judge described the population as "lawless ruffians who with murder in their hearts and the implements of death strapped upon their persons, congregate in public places, ever ready to discharge their death-dealing weapons upon the unoffending and unarmed citizens."
    Even so, Cerro Gordo was an important town in the American West. The prosperity of the town contributed to Los Angeles's early development.
    This video is a brief overview of the town's past, present, and future.
    If you're looking for more photos from around town, follow me on Instagram: / brentwunderwood
    Cerro Gordo T-Shirts and more: store.cerrogor...
    If you haven't already, please, PLEASE subscribe to the channel. It would mean a lot to me.
    Mailing address:
    PO Box 490, Lone Pine, CA 93545
    THANK YOU!!
    ==
    Brief History:
    Cerro Gordo was first established as a mining town in 1865 by Pablo Flores and several companions. The first large-scale mining operation was set up in 1866 by Jose Ochoa, who was extracting about 1.5 tons of ore every 12 hours. At the time, silver ore sold for about $300 a ton. The quality and quantity of ore that Cerro Gordo produced attracted a lot of interest statewide including merchant Victor Beaudry, who thought Cerro Gordo has the potential to be far more than a typical mining town. Beaudry opened the first general store in Cerro Gordo in 1866.
    In 1868, Beaudry teamed up with Mortimer Belshaw to expand the mining operations in Cerro Gordo. The same year Belshaw brought the first load of Cerro Gordo silver to Los Angeles. There he pitched Egbert Judson, president of the California Paper Company on the potential of Cerro Gordo. Judson was impressed by the pitch and the ore that Belshaw brought to LA and agreed to finance the Cerro Gordo operations. The trio formed the Union Mining Company.
    Armed with the finances, Cerro Gordo started an era of unequalled prosperity in 1868. The mine started regularly sending silver bullion to Los Angeles in December of that year. Each ingot was 18 inches long, weighed approximately 85 pounds, and depending on the silver content worth $20-$25. By the end of 1869, more than 340 tons of bullion has been pulled from Cerro Gordo and transported to Los Angeles. Cerro Gordo silver became the most common silver in Los Angeles, proudly displayed at the best hotels and banks, as well as many of the businesses along Main and Spring Streets.
    In 1869, The Los Angeles Times praised Cerro Gordo for helping expand Los Angeles and outlined the city's dependence on the mine, "What Los Angeles is, is mainly due to it. It is the silver cord that binds our present existence. Should it be uncomfortably severed, we would inevitably collapse."
    The rapid expansion of Cerro Gordo's mining operation meant the rapid expansion of the town. By 1869, just three years year after operations began, the town's population had increased to 1,500.
    In 1871 the two-story American Hotel was completed (which still stands today), as well as other permanent structures.
    The silver output had expanded to five tons per day by 1871. In 1874 Cerro Gordo delivered more than $2,000,000 worth of bullion to Los Angeles.
    By 1874, 3,400 tons of supplies were shipped into Cerro Gordo annually to support the town's population eventually grew to more than 4,500.
    In the coming years, the price of silver plummeted and a lot of the mining operations were shut down or moved to different towns. By 1888, the town was all but abandoned, with only 30-40 people still living there.
    In 1905, the property was purchased by the Great Western Ore company. The company had created a new smelting device designed to extract zinc and silver at a cheaper price. The success of the company brought a new wave of activity and prosperity to Cerro Gordo. The town again grew to a few hundred residents as they mined silver, zinc, and limestone.

ความคิดเห็น • 2.5K

  • @thajday
    @thajday 3 ปีที่แล้ว +532

    'From this Mountain' was written by my father and his good friend, Robert Likes. I grew up with the stories of Cerro Gordo. Thank you for featuring their work.

    • @CookiesDC
      @CookiesDC 3 ปีที่แล้ว +17

      That's so cool

    • @wadehoyt7707
      @wadehoyt7707 3 ปีที่แล้ว +23

      You should reach out to him and share some of them!

    • @DramaMustRemainOnTheStage
      @DramaMustRemainOnTheStage 2 ปีที่แล้ว +6

      Hopefully Brent @ghost town living will see this

    • @rafejaz
      @rafejaz ปีที่แล้ว +2

      @@DramaMustRemainOnTheStage me

    • @SamOlds2999
      @SamOlds2999 6 หลายเดือนก่อน

      5th reply

  • @DerekUejo
    @DerekUejo 3 ปีที่แล้ว +701

    As an Asian American it’s refreshing to see early Asian American history recognized and affirmed. Particularly in frontier/western American history. Thank you for speaking up about the presence and importance of the Chinese miners in Cerro Gordo’s history! Big fan of the channel already - this definitely cements my support for the great historical work you’re doing.

    • @tootmysteamboat2887
      @tootmysteamboat2887 3 ปีที่แล้ว +23

      It would be amazing if he could rebuild the China Town!

    • @danielkyto1363
      @danielkyto1363 3 ปีที่แล้ว +14

      Would also love to hear more about the history of Asian Americans in this town!

    • @lorriecrow7872
      @lorriecrow7872 3 ปีที่แล้ว +23

      Asians were big contributors to the development of California..

    • @Apexlegendzz
      @Apexlegendzz 3 ปีที่แล้ว +12

      A japanese containment camp is not too far down the road as well.

    • @Michael-du2fv
      @Michael-du2fv 3 ปีที่แล้ว +6

      @@lorriecrow7872 Sure, as indentured servants, trapped here by financial bondage and threats against their families back home without any legal protections or even recognized as citizens much less people.

  • @Hiskee
    @Hiskee 3 ปีที่แล้ว +340

    10 pm in Germany, nowhere to go, this and a beer will make my night

    • @mrgeringer
      @mrgeringer 3 ปีที่แล้ว +7

      Same :)

    • @kikki172
      @kikki172 3 ปีที่แล้ว +13

      Schönen Abend dir 🙆🏻‍♀️🙏🏻

    • @Hiskee
      @Hiskee 3 ปีที่แล้ว +4

      @@kikki172 ebenso! ✌️

    • @KingKohlrabi
      @KingKohlrabi 3 ปีที่แล้ว +6

      Gute Nacht... 😉

    • @davidwestonline
      @davidwestonline 3 ปีที่แล้ว +6

      Haha, mir geht's auch so. Prost! :D

  • @stevemiller1493
    @stevemiller1493 3 ปีที่แล้ว +120

    I was up at Cerro Gordo in 1980 as a side trip to doing geologic studies in Darwin. I met Jodi and she was the most gracious women. I dont remember much about the trip but I never forgot Jodi and her hospitality. You would have loved her. Just a fresh, straightforward and enjoyable woman. May she rest in peace.
    Would like to come back soon.
    Thanks for the memories.

  • @amanda3591
    @amanda3591 ปีที่แล้ว +14

    Brent, I just want to say that I admire your efforts in keeping the history alive in Cerro Gordo. My Father was a Geologist who visited there quite often back in the 1990's when he was investigating fault lines in Owens Valley. He was a friend of Jody's and when I was about 15 years old I used to stay up there with him sometimes. Jody was a great lady and so full of life. I feel very fortunate to have met her. I remember staying in the bunkhouse a couple times and my friend and I got to stay in the American Hotel all by ourselves for a night. Needless to say, we had some interesting experiences while staying there. Even though I am 40 years old now, I still recall having some great memories from my childhood there, and I hope all goes well with your ventures in preserving the town.

  • @r.pmcmurphy2158
    @r.pmcmurphy2158 3 ปีที่แล้ว +320

    Brent seems such a genuinely nice man,so glad i found this channel.

  • @vantagepointproducts2157
    @vantagepointproducts2157 3 ปีที่แล้ว +403

    We agree. This beats being a doctor, lawyer or banker for sure. We'd love to enjoy the silence up there. And the big sky. Take care from two UK subscribers.

    • @jumpysmiffyyt9020
      @jumpysmiffyyt9020 3 ปีที่แล้ว +13

      And another (Scotland)

    • @jebsshmeb224
      @jebsshmeb224 3 ปีที่แล้ว +12

      And 1 more from England too

    • @zubairpatel9304
      @zubairpatel9304 3 ปีที่แล้ว +9

      Add another

    • @cdnroofer
      @cdnroofer 3 ปีที่แล้ว +6

      One from Canada, I would love to help and build something for you one day. Thanks for keeping history alive and sharing with the world!!!

    • @LestWeForget-LestWeForget
      @LestWeForget-LestWeForget 3 ปีที่แล้ว +5

      Also in the UK.

  • @General_Confusion
    @General_Confusion 3 ปีที่แล้ว +335

    I think Jody would be pleased that you have the place now buddy.

    • @GhostTownLiving
      @GhostTownLiving  3 ปีที่แล้ว +95

      I hope so!

    • @MrJkca
      @MrJkca 3 ปีที่แล้ว +13

      Love this comment, I think she means a lot to him and I agree with your comment!

    • @kjohn5224
      @kjohn5224 3 ปีที่แล้ว +4

      Is buddy a diminutive?

    • @LUISga55555
      @LUISga55555 3 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      @@kjohn5224 it is not

    • @MOUTHonesixtyseven
      @MOUTHonesixtyseven 3 ปีที่แล้ว

      @@LUISga55555 I mean... sometimes

  • @drefanzor
    @drefanzor 2 ปีที่แล้ว +4

    This channel is better than anything you could ever find on Netflix or any other mainstream produced documentary.

  • @jeffpittman8725
    @jeffpittman8725 3 ปีที่แล้ว +92

    Consider developing swells around your area using rocks locally. When it rains/snows it can help concentrate moisture and retain it in the soil. Just a thought.

    • @margaretkeay97
      @margaretkeay97 3 ปีที่แล้ว +4

      I was thinking something similar. With all that snow that you get there, surely your could build your own lake up there and use it for the town water supply!? Just a thought! Love your videos and content. I wish you the best of luck from Australia. 🤗🙂

    • @silverbuyer
      @silverbuyer 3 ปีที่แล้ว +6

      @@margaretkeay97 I've thought the same thing, rain/snow water catchment but saw a TH-cam video of the old caretaker giving a tour and he said the dust that comes off the dry Owens lake bed contains arsenic so that isn't an option. The ground water likely contains lead and other contaminates which may be why a previous owner got cancer and died at a young aged late 50's I believe. They thought she may have got cancer from the water.

    • @silverbuyer
      @silverbuyer 3 ปีที่แล้ว

      I've thought the same thing, rain/snow water catchment but saw a TH-cam video of the old caretaker giving a tour and he said the dust that comes off the dry Owens lake bed contains arsenic so that isn't an option. The ground water likely contains lead and other contaminates which may be why a previous owner got cancer and died at a young aged late 50's I believe. They thought she may have got cancer from the water.

    • @margaretkeay97
      @margaretkeay97 3 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      @@silverbuyer Thank you for the info. Gosh, errrrgghhh, that's terrifying! Mmm, I wonder if they post notices around up there so people/tourists etc know about it?

    • @silverbuyer
      @silverbuyer 3 ปีที่แล้ว

      @@margaretkeay97 Yes pretty terrifying that any ground water or rain water could potentially get you sick 😷. Have you joined the Ghost Town Living official fan page group on Facebook yet?

  • @fastcars918
    @fastcars918 3 ปีที่แล้ว +2683

    who else wants to spend a week at Cerro Gordo?

    • @Neamcel225
      @Neamcel225 3 ปีที่แล้ว +128

      old lady. but if I make it another year through all this mess, would love to go to california, meet up with my grandson and stay at the newly constructed hotel for a few nights. haha, sit around a camp fire while someone strummed a guitar quietly in the background listening to tales of the town. rooster wake you in the morning.

    • @iwanttoseeyousmileee
      @iwanttoseeyousmileee 3 ปีที่แล้ว +14

      me 🙂

    • @chemicalmike646
      @chemicalmike646 3 ปีที่แล้ว +33

      just be sure to bring supplies, including drinking water. aside from that, seems like a cool place to escape from the rat race. ., but theres probably lots of mice lol. :D

    • @TheDanm22
      @TheDanm22 3 ปีที่แล้ว +21

      6 days... just to be safe.

    • @kg7219
      @kg7219 3 ปีที่แล้ว +8

      @@TheDanm22 heh... good one.

  • @zetsuiio
    @zetsuiio 3 ปีที่แล้ว +901

    Video idea: if possible you should try to reconnect with past caretakers children or grandchildren that would be so cool!

    • @Saluno375
      @Saluno375 3 ปีที่แล้ว +16

      Really cool idea!

    • @gabbyig
      @gabbyig 3 ปีที่แล้ว +7

      That’s so smart!

    • @GnomesBeCool
      @GnomesBeCool 3 ปีที่แล้ว +8

      Great idea

    • @MrHerodoto
      @MrHerodoto 3 ปีที่แล้ว +38

      And invite those to the Hotel opening next year.

    • @morningstar6123
      @morningstar6123 3 ปีที่แล้ว +8

      Yes please this! What a great idea!

  • @angiewallick6236
    @angiewallick6236 3 ปีที่แล้ว +345

    This man is winning in life frl

    • @dougamer748
      @dougamer748 3 ปีที่แล้ว +5

      Yes!

    • @bountyhuntert-kc2xj
      @bountyhuntert-kc2xj 3 ปีที่แล้ว +2

      Yup

    • @ShastaLin
      @ShastaLin 3 ปีที่แล้ว +2

      Completely agree!!

    • @husslerhode7427
      @husslerhode7427 3 ปีที่แล้ว

      I agree

    • @michaelmich00
      @michaelmich00 3 ปีที่แล้ว +3

      well we all have chances everyday, social media will make things look normal which are not, most is fake too, set ur goals on a paper and try reach them in 5 years

  • @billmassy
    @billmassy 3 ปีที่แล้ว +108

    great to hear you mention and pay respect to the Indigenous peoples of the lands Cerro Gordo rest on. i had commented on other videos wondering about that, so thanks!

  • @haniichuu
    @haniichuu 3 ปีที่แล้ว +37

    I am such a history nerd that I absolutely adored this video. Thank you for being so interested in this side of Cerro Gordo. I have been loving learning about it.

  • @GhostTownLiving
    @GhostTownLiving  3 ปีที่แล้ว +501

    Thanks again for watching! Please subscribe and turn on notifications if you haven't already! What do you want to see next?

    • @dabest_yeet
      @dabest_yeet 3 ปีที่แล้ว +7

      Love your content.

    • @phlydailysmom4683
      @phlydailysmom4683 3 ปีที่แล้ว +5

      Maybe find some Bones?

    • @boring.doerings
      @boring.doerings 3 ปีที่แล้ว +3

      Hey Brent how’s it going?

    • @reddroche7447
      @reddroche7447 3 ปีที่แล้ว +7

      Been to Cerro Gordo Springs yet?

    • @framos9187
      @framos9187 3 ปีที่แล้ว +7

      Keep doing what you’re doing. Loved last week’s video!

  • @mochatheartist
    @mochatheartist 3 ปีที่แล้ว +28

    Out of all the people that could have purchased Cerro Gordo, I'm glad it was you. Someone with such pure passion for history and discovery. Thank you for creating this channel and taking us on the journey with you.

    • @originalname6367
      @originalname6367 3 ปีที่แล้ว

      I hate to be that guy, but under his supervision, the most important piece of history in that town was burned down. A building that was standing for over a hundred years was destroyed within a few months of this dude gaining ownership of it.

    • @mochatheartist
      @mochatheartist 3 ปีที่แล้ว +6

      @@originalname6367 Considering how it burnt it would have happened no matter the owner.

  • @expatron
    @expatron 3 ปีที่แล้ว +471

    An idea - create an area just for star-gazers. Large pad with a compass-rose so they can set-up telescopes. There is one at the national park campground at mount palomar that's always in use.

    • @michaelgreen1267
      @michaelgreen1267 3 ปีที่แล้ว +4

      Thats A Great Idea !!

    • @nickybee800
      @nickybee800 3 ปีที่แล้ว +4

      Wow!!! Great idea!!!

    • @dazblue5515
      @dazblue5515 3 ปีที่แล้ว +15

      With pretty much zero light polution, it would be a perfect place to stargaze

    • @jonathansoko5368
      @jonathansoko5368 3 ปีที่แล้ว +2

      A great way to observe our flat stationary plane we live in. Great idea

    • @Jefff72
      @Jefff72 3 ปีที่แล้ว

      I agree, great idea.

  • @easyuketuts
    @easyuketuts 3 ปีที่แล้ว +38

    I’m so glad that a man with this much passion and integrity bought such a historic town. Could have been a massive development company that just paved over it. The town is now a credit to you!

  • @brandonhall5615
    @brandonhall5615 3 ปีที่แล้ว +41

    As a child of the West, a former carpenter, and, now, former History teacher, I find this channel delightful in many ways. I look forward to your progress on the American Hotel.

  • @craigroaring
    @craigroaring 3 ปีที่แล้ว +444

    It's quite ironic that Cerro Gordo made Los Angeles what it is, just to have LA return the favour by taking all the water.

    • @fraterfraxinus6293
      @fraterfraxinus6293 3 ปีที่แล้ว +54

      Los Angeles is a bitch like that. Cerro Gordo is fortunate that Los Angeles can't write parking tickets up there.

    • @Selmarya
      @Selmarya 3 ปีที่แล้ว +28

      @@fraterfraxinus6293 Los Angeles is literally lucky to survive
      Resources were given from all the towns inland and they take the most important thing, water

    • @d.ag.b1135
      @d.ag.b1135 3 ปีที่แล้ว +46

      Los Angeles is a parasite, its sucks the life out the surrounding area and gives nothing but garbage in return.

    • @jacobrothschild42936
      @jacobrothschild42936 3 ปีที่แล้ว +35

      LA doing what LA does best, suck the life out of everything and destroying whatever is unfortunate to touch it. Cerro Gordo is beautiful, however.

    • @ColoradoCarrolls
      @ColoradoCarrolls 3 ปีที่แล้ว +8

      @@d.ag.b1135 Got that right, Now a days it's becoming a communist State.
      Hopefully they all get "Ridden out of town or Hung"

  • @SteveSarette
    @SteveSarette 3 ปีที่แล้ว +107

    If camping was available, I’d show up there right after Christmas. I have a Jeep and a four season tent, and I think that would be awesome.

    • @thinbluelinepics5688
      @thinbluelinepics5688 3 ปีที่แล้ว +6

      Camping leads to littering, and careless people that don’t pick up after themselves

    • @bradley5674
      @bradley5674 3 ปีที่แล้ว +10

      @@thinbluelinepics5688 what do you think happens in hotels?

    • @Starfish2145
      @Starfish2145 3 ปีที่แล้ว +8

      He probably would love some company and some help. Email him

    • @chaoticature
      @chaoticature 3 ปีที่แล้ว +9

      @@thinbluelinepics5688 That’s why genuine campers express it so much. Here in South Australia we have a last minute combing of the camping area called an EMU BOB.
      Very fitting.

    • @doogyb4421
      @doogyb4421 3 ปีที่แล้ว +3

      Did you see in his latest vlog where he talks about an area close by that has trees and grass? He wants to have camping and maybe cabins.

  • @JimLeibert
    @JimLeibert 3 ปีที่แล้ว +6

    Great job telling the story of Cerro Gordo. I live in Los Angeles County and have been there many times over the years going back to the early 1990's. Our camping group used to camp at Conglomerate Mesa and come up from the back side through the Saline Valley. I've also been up from the front side and from the Swansea to Cerro Gordo Trail. In the early years Jody guided us (I have pictures of my friend in the operators chair of the hoist.) In the later years we were guided by Mike and then by Robert the last few times. Last time there was just before you guys bought it. It's a shame about the hotel, hope you can bring it back to it's former glory!

  • @elle_rose_xx
    @elle_rose_xx 3 ปีที่แล้ว +16

    This channel makes me so happy like it’s so wholesome and inspiring. My boyfriend showed me it when we first started dating and it’s just made me more excited to go on adventures together - little adventures every day and bigger adventures of life together. Thanks Brent ❤️

  • @RamoArt
    @RamoArt 3 ปีที่แล้ว +15

    This is my favorite Cerro Gordo video so far.
    I used to work at a museum and I was always digging through the archives to uncover some history that may not be significant to the general public, but it was so interesting to me.

  • @puppetguy8726
    @puppetguy8726 3 ปีที่แล้ว +69

    It's weird how a town goes from 4000 inhabitants to 1 like this. Hopefully the town will be a bit livelier in the future.

    • @liutasllc6338
      @liutasllc6338 3 ปีที่แล้ว +7

      Not gonna happen. Its just barren desert land all around there with nothing but history.

    • @coraldiamond1922
      @coraldiamond1922 3 ปีที่แล้ว +3

      @@liutasllc6338 well it’s never going to be a mining town again but hopefully there will be a fair amount of tourists that make it more lively.

    • @liutasllc6338
      @liutasllc6338 3 ปีที่แล้ว +5

      ​@@coraldiamond1922 I am sure with his YT following he'll get some tourists come through just to meet him. So sure it will be more lively. Its just entire west is littered with abandoned mines and many of those remote desert areas aren't much of tourist attraction areas. This place will never be what it once was or have same significance to the region, its about this channel and a guys dream now.

    • @southaussielad2496
      @southaussielad2496 3 ปีที่แล้ว +6

      We had a town go from around 2000 down to 4, now a new avacado farm, dams and a highway have gone out there and it's back up to over 500 now and growing. It's amazing how things can change hey

  • @syrahlover
    @syrahlover 3 ปีที่แล้ว +81

    oh, man, if i was only in my 30's again ... watching this and listening to you, i would BEG you to let me come live there ... i could help in a garden, with hotel hospitality, make my stained glass windows, perhaps develop nature program for children to partake .... but i am old now & perhaps my usefulness has waned .... so i just sit here in idaho and daydream ... great channel & series, have enjoyed it all ... thank you, young man!

    • @christophermuller3180
      @christophermuller3180 3 ปีที่แล้ว +3

      Hi, I'm Chris , you don't mind me sending you a direct message, I'd love to talk to you

    • @syrahlover
      @syrahlover 3 ปีที่แล้ว +2

      @@christophermuller3180 sure chris (not sure how dm works on utube)

    • @christophermuller3180
      @christophermuller3180 3 ปีที่แล้ว +2

      @@syrahlover thanks, are you on instagram or whatsapp

    • @syrahlover
      @syrahlover 3 ปีที่แล้ว +4

      @@christophermuller3180 no, i don't .... i don't even have a smartphone!

    • @shadydk3819
      @shadydk3819 3 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      😊

  • @mcdemyr
    @mcdemyr 3 ปีที่แล้ว +12

    Man, your videos just make me feel so calm and happy when I watch them. It's a much needed feeling these days. Just wanna say thanks, your dedication is obvious, and it's super inspiring. Much love

  • @BennieBirbX
    @BennieBirbX 3 ปีที่แล้ว +26

    I noticed you talking about the silver wagons. If you are interested, there is a TH-cam channel Called Engles coach shop. He specializes in historical wagons, coaches, etc. he has made full reconstructions of the Death Valley wagons for Death Valley.

  • @bobbob1391
    @bobbob1391 3 ปีที่แล้ว +10

    Brent, you are an inspiration. I am a history buff and believe very strongly in the preservation and protection of our history. I am renovating an old house in Salt Lake City. She was built about the time of the first boom of Cerro Gordo in 1875. I will see you there in Cerro Gordo some day.

  • @damckissen
    @damckissen 3 ปีที่แล้ว +44

    This channel has been a great escape for me during Covid. The history, buildings, and exploration are all wonderful things to think about instead of polarized America. If this channel has helped you, leave a reply or comment. And Keep up the great work Brent!

  • @brucepalmer5222
    @brucepalmer5222 3 ปีที่แล้ว +45

    I'm still coming out in Feb. to help build the hotel. can't wait

    • @johnpurdy3336
      @johnpurdy3336 3 ปีที่แล้ว +11

      Just wanna take this time to sincerely thank u for helping to rebuild the hotel. Really love the town and it's history and preserving both is very important imo. Really looking forward to the hotel being rebuilt and to the day I can visit cerro gordo and see the hotel for myself.

    • @alysonlavergne889
      @alysonlavergne889 3 ปีที่แล้ว +3

      BYOW bring your own water

    • @brucepalmer5222
      @brucepalmer5222 3 ปีที่แล้ว

      @@alysonlavergne889 Thanks for the advice

  • @Laura-Kitty
    @Laura-Kitty 3 ปีที่แล้ว +10

    You bought your beautiful Cerro Gordo on my birthday, July 13th. I just want to say that you're a true inspiration! I love your videos, your great attitude, calm good nature and your passion for your gem of a ghost town. You are a wonderful historian & motivational speaker and you're my go-to YT channel when I'm feeling stressed... you're that good at what you do! Keep up the good works, I'm hooked on your journey sir. Thank you for all you do for those of us who need a level headed voice of reason in these trying times. Peace & God bless my friend, and a very merry Christmas to you & the kittens! 👼🎄📯

    • @GhostTownLiving
      @GhostTownLiving  3 ปีที่แล้ว +4

      Oh wow, thank you! I really appreciate that. I'll keep making these. Merry Christmas to you too

  • @quanzoboi420
    @quanzoboi420 3 ปีที่แล้ว +9

    I love the progression of brents beard throughout the vids.

  • @JoakimIsacson
    @JoakimIsacson 3 ปีที่แล้ว +40

    You are telling stories I never thought would see the light of day on TH-cam. This is just amazing, it's so interesting.

  • @Gothrules4
    @Gothrules4 3 ปีที่แล้ว +27

    As an anthropologist who especially loves history, thank you so much for making this (and every) video! My husband & I watch weekly from Northern Cali, we hope to visit in the future. Love buying Cerro Gordo merch cause we know it's supporting such an amazing cause & the materials are high quality! Wishing you/the kitties a very Merry Christmas & Happy New Year as well :)

  • @bradpeters2281
    @bradpeters2281 3 ปีที่แล้ว +18

    I find this channel interesting, truly a representation of early America and the people that struggled to exist.

  • @staym925
    @staym925 2 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    Thank you for preserving a huge piece of history, so much is being destroyed, lost, or forgotten about when it comes to history. History is what gives future generations truth, love, meaning, and a way of guidance. Again thank you, hope to someday make it out thier to see everything.

  • @johnholgate4773
    @johnholgate4773 3 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    In 1975, when I was 12, we moved from Whittier, CA to Kingman, AZ. My older brother and I spent a lot of time exploring old mines around there. It would be great to visit your old town in coming years to see what you’ve done with it!
    Thanks for documenting the journey.

  • @NARISHMA42
    @NARISHMA42 3 ปีที่แล้ว +23

    I'd love to see a video showcasing the coolest artifacts you have there. The collections have been glossed over, but a deeper dive would be sweet!

  • @bobbywhite2783
    @bobbywhite2783 3 ปีที่แล้ว +35

    More good reads: The Images of America, Lone Pine by Christopher Langley and Western Mining by Otis E. Young Jr.

    • @HoyaSaxaSD
      @HoyaSaxaSD 3 ปีที่แล้ว

      Isn’t that the mall in Back to the Future?

  • @rbrb3967
    @rbrb3967 3 ปีที่แล้ว +12

    I’m so happy I came across this channel, I can’t get enough of it.

  • @Clarissabk
    @Clarissabk 3 ปีที่แล้ว +13

    Being from Bishop myself and a Paiute it’s so so so great to see someone actually tell the truth or at least do the proper research 😁

  • @Joseph-tz1ib
    @Joseph-tz1ib 3 ปีที่แล้ว +5

    Cerro Gordo is lucky to have you dude. Love the content, been watching for the past few month. Hopefully I can visit one day with my family. All the best from the UK.

  • @Oh_You_Know_
    @Oh_You_Know_ 3 ปีที่แล้ว +14

    PLEASE make the campsites priority!! As an Overlander, I would be there in a heartbeat since I am always around the Inyo area adventuring around.

  • @lorraineeagle4009
    @lorraineeagle4009 3 ปีที่แล้ว +10

    I love hearing the Pride in your voice and I love hearing about the history of your town.

  • @johnsipchen7546
    @johnsipchen7546 3 ปีที่แล้ว +11

    This man is awesome probably spent more then a month researching and making his video, and then doesn’t even put ads on it.

    • @pollatso
      @pollatso 3 ปีที่แล้ว

      Well said....

    • @ateosedm5690
      @ateosedm5690 3 ปีที่แล้ว

      Well, there's still ads, i just watched one while i read your comment, so yeah i don't know what you're going on about... 🤣🤣🤣

  • @gardenrailroading
    @gardenrailroading 3 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Loved this video, great content. Thank you so much!

  • @adlar2005
    @adlar2005 3 ปีที่แล้ว +128

    I'm really curious what happened to Pablo Flores, was he murdered for the land?

    • @darthXreven
      @darthXreven 3 ปีที่แล้ว +18

      he became Pablo Escobar and the Federali's got him in the 80's......
      wait.....
      😈
      JK, so JK lolz

    • @liamroggenkamp
      @liamroggenkamp 3 ปีที่แล้ว +5

      My guess is that he sold out when offered enough money. A lot of people who discovered famous ore bodies sold out before the mines became famous

    • @everythingsalright1121
      @everythingsalright1121 3 ปีที่แล้ว +7

      @@liamroggenkamp probably. This happened with the comstock lode. Over nearly 20 years they pulled out hundreds of billions of dollars worth of gold but mostly silver. The original claim owners sold out for what was considered to be obscene profits at the time. Selling early was fairly common, since you could quit while you were ahead. It wasnt till later they realized just how big the deposit was.

    • @liamroggenkamp
      @liamroggenkamp 3 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      @@everythingsalright1121 Same thing happened at the famous Empire Mine. Original discoverer sold the claim before it made the huge amounts of money it did.

  • @wateenonzin5580
    @wateenonzin5580 3 ปีที่แล้ว +41

    Very informative, well done! Would love to see a metaldetection hunt in the future!

  • @Hk-hu1ky
    @Hk-hu1ky 3 ปีที่แล้ว +13

    It's just amazing, how he stays so positive and motivated every day I adore the videos

  • @bobbywelch6035
    @bobbywelch6035 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    Thank you for not sugar coating the history. History is history and should not ever be altered to not "offend" people. History should be used as a reminder.

  • @scott2k9184
    @scott2k9184 3 ปีที่แล้ว +21

    You should sell all those books in your future stores for everyone to get when they visit

  • @kenziegrohman3576
    @kenziegrohman3576 3 ปีที่แล้ว +15

    I really appreciate you talking about the indigenous people that lived in Cerro Gordo before it was taken by the settlers.

  • @isaacskicks7061
    @isaacskicks7061 3 ปีที่แล้ว +10

    Never stop making videos Brent 🥺🥺 love this town and love you even more.

  • @lisasescapades
    @lisasescapades 3 ปีที่แล้ว +327

    You should metal detect around those houses. I bet you find 1800’s coins.

    • @stephenzwemer2905
      @stephenzwemer2905 3 ปีที่แล้ว +22

      I’m sure someone has already scoured the premises for coins with metal detectors
      But still would be fun if he would allow it. But he owns everything on and in the place.

    • @lisasescapades
      @lisasescapades 3 ปีที่แล้ว +32

      @@stephenzwemer2905 that’s why he should do it to add to the museum.

    • @TheDadofThem
      @TheDadofThem 3 ปีที่แล้ว +14

      And slugs

    • @gregorylichtenson757
      @gregorylichtenson757 3 ปีที่แล้ว +3

      Oh yeah

    • @nethbar
      @nethbar 3 ปีที่แล้ว

      oi! u gimme tressur!

  • @marcelooliver1803
    @marcelooliver1803 3 ปีที่แล้ว +37

    The ghost in the bunkhouse is Jody. She's still taking care of things for you.

  • @chrisd1977
    @chrisd1977 3 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Found you on TH-cam while searching for Old West stuff..Addicted mate..Love what you do..Hello from Australia 🇦🇺

  • @earthsperfectphotos9765
    @earthsperfectphotos9765 3 ปีที่แล้ว +10

    Love seeing this channel blow up. Not to many thing in 2020 that where awesome here on TH-cam but this is one of them. I appreciate the content you produce for us!.

  • @danasmethurst120
    @danasmethurst120 3 ปีที่แล้ว +9

    I'm so glad I found this channel. Everything is so interesting!

  • @marensaffell8864
    @marensaffell8864 3 ปีที่แล้ว +4

    Thank you so much for the little history lesson! Buying land with history on it is pretty darn awesome. Preserving American history is what keeps us moving forward, the good, the bad, and the ugly.

    • @christophermuller3180
      @christophermuller3180 3 ปีที่แล้ว

      Hi, I'm Chris , you don't mind me sending you a direct message, I'd love to talk to you

  • @jeremymitchell6501
    @jeremymitchell6501 3 ปีที่แล้ว +4

    It's officially on my bucket list to come here

  • @lisarogers9186
    @lisarogers9186 3 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Great re cap. Love watching videos. Thank you. Great passion. Bless you.

  • @iHumerousDragon
    @iHumerousDragon 3 ปีที่แล้ว +13

    can never get enough of this, thank you so much for the uploads.

  • @geoh7349
    @geoh7349 3 ปีที่แล้ว +26

    There is an old legend told of a boat filled with silver that sunk in the owens lake.

    • @MalteseCross
      @MalteseCross 3 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      It would have been Silver Ore, unlike Gold, silver needs to be refined from Iron, copper, zinc, malachite, just to name a few, I have a 10 lbs chunk of Silver Ore from mountains close by, it contains about 60% to 70% silver.. but with Silver being roughly $25 an ounce there is no money to be made from Silver Ore anymore.

  • @LestWeForget-LestWeForget
    @LestWeForget-LestWeForget 3 ปีที่แล้ว +147

    Have you found a graveyard yet? Would be interesting to see.

    • @robcappa
      @robcappa 3 ปีที่แล้ว +3

      My son and I were talking about that today. Kinda funny I’m watching this video for the second time and seeing your comment.

    • @bingusaerospace
      @bingusaerospace 3 ปีที่แล้ว +3

      The Halloween video I think he was sitting next to a gravestone at the start

    • @kova1577
      @kova1577 2 ปีที่แล้ว +2

      @@bingusaerospace he was

    • @patricknoveski6409
      @patricknoveski6409 2 ปีที่แล้ว +2

      There has to be a graveyard with so many people killed there. Putting sandbags around their bed to sleep and actually wake up in the am.

  • @davidroberts5577
    @davidroberts5577 3 ปีที่แล้ว +3

    One awesome video young man, your passion for the place is off the charts! Thank you for sharing this with us all.

  • @ashleysalinas187
    @ashleysalinas187 3 ปีที่แล้ว +3

    What a great video! Thank you for covering some of the history of CG! Hope to see more and love watching your channel!

  • @stalheimAS
    @stalheimAS 3 ปีที่แล้ว +5

    Great story, and the love of the Town shines trough! - Norway

  • @tucknerd
    @tucknerd 3 ปีที่แล้ว +29

    "Infamous bandits. Well maybe not bandits." Lol. That was great.

  • @caseys6530
    @caseys6530 3 ปีที่แล้ว +6

    These videos make me feel like I’m there I really enjoy watching them

  • @dmanduff9108
    @dmanduff9108 2 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    @ghost town living Brent, the amount of respect you show for the land, it's prior inhabitants, and the history reflects great credit upon your character and your family. Your adoption of Cerro Gordo is nothing short of remarkable. I am humbled and inspired by your story, and hope to be fortunate enough to meet you eventually and see your amazing town in person. Thank you for sharing your adventures with us. 🇺🇲

  • @williamshaffer9216
    @williamshaffer9216 3 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    The more I watch, the more I want to come. I'm a retired railroader and retired part-time professional photographer and I see a million photographs waiting to be taken!

  • @RichardGoodman
    @RichardGoodman 3 ปีที่แล้ว +48

    Would like more info on the current water problem.

    • @freednighthawk
      @freednighthawk 3 ปีที่แล้ว

      He covered it pretty well in a previous episode. But basically, the water is supplied by a pump in an aquifer on the 700 level of the mine. But the pump is pretty much not reliable.

    • @RichardGoodman
      @RichardGoodman 3 ปีที่แล้ว

      @@freednighthawk I understand that. But it would appear that it is more than a reliable pump. Looks like there might be a GPM issue but I sure would like more info in order to help.

    • @freednighthawk
      @freednighthawk 3 ปีที่แล้ว +2

      @@RichardGoodman In that case, if you feel you have something to offer, I would email him directly. Go to the channel's "About" page, and click view email address.

    • @sanyey8405
      @sanyey8405 3 ปีที่แล้ว +5

      Insulate pipes on atleast the top 200 feet, build a watertower -so the pump could be automated by a flow-valve in top-up mode-, build a basic water filtration system between the tower and town, plus do the plumbing undergroung .. Et voila, running water , with decent pressure basically without requiring electricity...

  • @elliotokland8597
    @elliotokland8597 3 ปีที่แล้ว +6

    A few wall tent accommodations would be amazing, wood bases on the tents with views of the mountains. Love this channel. Keep it up, I grew up in an old mining town. Something amazing about the history of them

  • @lowkee33
    @lowkee33 3 ปีที่แล้ว +4

    I'm sorry I keep missing the live premiere, Thank you for putting out these great videos !! I am hooked and cannot wait for the next video each week.

  • @jeremysales1232
    @jeremysales1232 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    Just seen a ad on your channel . This is the 1st time I was ever happy to see one. Hope everything goes awesome for Cerro Gordo in 2022!

  • @teresawommack5148
    @teresawommack5148 2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    A lot of good stories Brent. You must be beaming, being around all that History. Thanks!

  • @RogueWave2030
    @RogueWave2030 3 ปีที่แล้ว +7

    I just love this! Thank you for the wonderful Los Angeles history. We’ll be there!

    • @christophermuller3180
      @christophermuller3180 3 ปีที่แล้ว

      Hi, I'm Chris , you don't mind me sending you a direct message, I'd love to talk to you

  • @alfredstcloud
    @alfredstcloud 3 ปีที่แล้ว +17

    The most funny thing to me is that up the street from me is Cerro Gordo St in echo park, Los Angeles!!

    • @fresquez
      @fresquez 3 ปีที่แล้ว

      Same! I was just driving in the area and noticed I was in Cerro Gordo street!

  • @enginetuna1995
    @enginetuna1995 3 ปีที่แล้ว +6

    Been watching almost from the beginning, and look forward to your updates every week. Love what you're doing and the passion you have for it. Keep it up! One day my partner and myself would love to come from the UK and stay at the town, but Right now we are in the middle of a cross country re-location, and for me, a new career sector in my dream job, after 25 years in the same industry! We keep referring to it as 'chasing our Cerro Gordo' . After all, you gave us the thumbs to do it up in your last video! All the best Brent! Hope you find some denim soon! Ed.

  • @dianefountainheilman865
    @dianefountainheilman865 2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    I just found your videos over the last weekend. I've had a great time watching them every day. I don't know if you still read comments on videos from the past, but Brent I just love them, and what you're doing, and you. What an inspiration you are.

  • @mikeh3175
    @mikeh3175 3 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Mister, you continue to keep it so real and quite fascinating for us who are following your adventure. You narrate so very wonderfully your passion for what you are doing. Mucho Gracious.

  • @Footballitalo
    @Footballitalo 3 ปีที่แล้ว +101

    id find some lake "exploring" also very fascinating, maybe there is some interesting stuff still downthere from the time

    • @GhostTownLiving
      @GhostTownLiving  3 ปีที่แล้ว +85

      Supposedly there is a boatload (literally of silver in the lake). A steamer containing Cerro Gordo silver sank when it was a lake and nobody has found it since...

    • @Starfish2145
      @Starfish2145 3 ปีที่แล้ว +7

      Yup. Magnet 🧲 fishing and metal detector

    • @otda3675
      @otda3675 3 ปีที่แล้ว +10

      @@GhostTownLiving dude, I bet if you dug a bit in the dry lake bed you would find some amazing fossils

    • @danhoeshen3417
      @danhoeshen3417 3 ปีที่แล้ว +2

      @@GhostTownLiving I believe the lake is owned by the LADWP and is thus probably posted no trespassing. I'd metal detect on and around it if it was allowed.

    • @MrSkipperBent
      @MrSkipperBent 3 ปีที่แล้ว

      @@GhostTownLiving check it out😍

  • @brucevanderzanden9638
    @brucevanderzanden9638 3 ปีที่แล้ว +8

    Than, you so much for the history lesson. A few more pieces of the history have fit into place. But oh so many more need to be filled. Thank you. From a new subscriber.

    • @GhostTownLiving
      @GhostTownLiving  3 ปีที่แล้ว +4

      Glad you enjoyed it! Thank you for checking it out.

  • @blairburnsg8258
    @blairburnsg8258 3 ปีที่แล้ว +4

    Hey Brent! Watching this made me fall even more in love with the place! Love the work your doing.

  • @anthonywiser5256
    @anthonywiser5256 3 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Super excited to come here when it’s all done. Love watching your videos and wish you all the luck and good fortune🍻

  • @TheBrettisag
    @TheBrettisag 3 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    I think its amazing that someone cares so much they spent as much money as you did on the town. Its crazy how much inspiration it brings. Stay you brother.

  • @victoriapark3746
    @victoriapark3746 3 ปีที่แล้ว +110

    Next time I want to get out of an uncomfortable situation: “uh.....I need to go see my horse”. And disappear.

  • @jillmccoy5184
    @jillmccoy5184 3 ปีที่แล้ว +6

    Very interesting and put together well. I enjoyed this history lesson. Thank you! I hope all of your dreams come to fruition!😊🙏

  • @PhiTonics
    @PhiTonics 3 ปีที่แล้ว +61

    Your gonna have to write your own book now!

    • @scott2296
      @scott2296 3 ปีที่แล้ว +5

      "Up In Smoke: How To Preserve Landmarks"

  • @nickaxon
    @nickaxon 3 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    So pleased I found you on tik tok. One of my new favourite TH-cam channels . All the best from north Wales UK

  • @maryhairy1
    @maryhairy1 ปีที่แล้ว

    History is so important providing it not rewritten. I love your experience. Just keep going!

  • @brewcity1834
    @brewcity1834 3 ปีที่แล้ว +78

    The History Channel got's NOTHING on you

    • @ragemodels
      @ragemodels 3 ปีที่แล้ว

      Well said 👏👏👏🏔👏👏👏

  • @thejamiebeal1
    @thejamiebeal1 3 ปีที่แล้ว +12

    Getting ever skinnier my friend. Take care!

  • @p.m3735
    @p.m3735 3 ปีที่แล้ว +4

    Recent convert to this channel. Really enjoying it. Great to see the history of the town. Thanks for doing this episode on it. 😎

  • @SchClean
    @SchClean 3 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    Thank you for preserving this piece of history. I love this area and frequent it often. I've been to Bodie just up the hill. I can't wait to visit and explore a little.

  • @shawnbuckendahl1968
    @shawnbuckendahl1968 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Love the history/updates. Learned of your life's chapter from Heavy D. Now I'm totally immersed in your adventure.

  • @bobbyfan418
    @bobbyfan418 3 ปีที่แล้ว +5

    I didn't know about Jody. That's really cool you have a recently deceased spirit in town.

  • @snowyhound
    @snowyhound 3 ปีที่แล้ว +4

    Finally here before it premieres!😍 Highlight of my week, keep it up man!