Tragedy Strikes In The Ghost Town of Cerro Gordo
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- เผยแพร่เมื่อ 21 ก.ย. 2024
- Around 2am June 15th, 2020 the American Hotel burned down at Cerro Gordo.
The American Hotel was the crown jewel of Cerro Gordo. It was my favorite building. It was almost everyone’s favorite building. You couldn’t take a picture of Cerro Gordo without the American Hotel. It’s where we gathered, laughed, entertained, and basked in an iconic piece of American history. It was a place I couldn’t wait to show off visitors when they came. I even would sketch the front of the building when I wasn’t there, thinking of it.
I’m beyond devastated and haven’t really slept since but did want to get an update out.
The cause is believed to be faulty electric and/or rodents by an electrician we had out today. The buildings up here are extremely old and the wood very dry and fires have always been an issue.
Netflix needs to pick this up as a documentary. That would give you the budget you need!!!
@Michelle Green wow, you seem like a pleasant person.
Because netflix doesn't ruin everything it touches...
@Michelle Green You sound like a very reasonable person... 😒
Actual his channel is better than half the shit on Netflix
@@crazybarryfam this entire venture involved investors from the likes of tech CEOs, including at least one from Netflix. Anyone that sends this guy money to help these rich people fix their problem investment is a fool.
What a terrible tragedy. In all my years of documenting ghost towns and mining camps in photos and video, I've seen far too many wonderful, historic structures lost forever. I hope and pray you'll be able to rebuild, and I've made a donation to assist in that goal.
Good man right here!
Your a good man there was a lot of historical things in there I miss it my self as well
U need apply for historic grant tho rebuild. Make a useable bldg for turest
That’s awesome
I live in Michigan can you recommend any ghost towns here or Indiana to visit?
I worked for Skywalker Ranch when it was built and I handmade a lot of the bedding, cushions and pillows, I also make window coverings and upholstery. I have 100s of yards of fabrics. Let me know if you want some help in that area. I am very good at using fabrics that are correct for the period of furnishings. I have recently done The Pelican Inn diningroom as well, in Mill Valley Ca. Some of the chairs are hundreds of years old.
That's very cool. I know he would appreciate but but unless it's donations I think it would be cost prohibitive sadly.
That is such a kind offer good on you.
Bless you 🥰
@@DramaMustRemainOnTheStage you must be kidding? hes looking for people to help as well as donations. he would be over the moon about this im sure.
Bro. What kindness!
Came back to watch this, now that the rebuilding has finally begun. It hurts to see how much was lost, but it's so inspiring to know that it'll be back soon.
Same! What a wonderful thing to see the start of rebuilding of the hotel.
Bro for real I never watched this video but have watches others of his and now watching this is so sad to see.
Keep that chin up brother. Your doing something beautiful as well as challenging. I admire your dedication to the project. 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪
Me too @Robert Larson. I'm really happy for Brent and every one that has been involved in restoring the town and hotel. It's inspiring to watch Brent's adventure. I really admire the guy and value his perspective on Life in general.
I get a feeling this wasn't an accident.
My heart hurts at this loss. The hotel seemed so rich in history and character, and it only took an hour for it to vanish. I wish you the best of luck in rebuilding.
imagine almost 100 years old just vanished in in one hour like that
@@helldronez 150 years old wasnt it? I remember him saying it was built in the 1870's
@@chrism1106 ah yes 150 years
I can't imagine how much that must of hurt to lose. Best of luck on the rebuild.
@@pOOL_pANTStrolllllllll
@@pOOL_pANTS what is wrong with you
@@pOOL_pANTS get out of here insurance will cover it not nearly as much money as it going to cost to rebuild and also all the antique items lost and I can tell from watching his videos that he cares about this fucking place so you need to chill out
I'm so sorry your hotel burned down. Hang in there. I respect your love and care for History.
@@okay4615 theres no such thing as ghosts young buck. also you havent been there so you dont know just like me, btw ghosts have never been scientifically proven. with that being said he could just post old spooky town, it is spooky but theres no ghosts. try to educate yourself
“I’m gonna die here.” That sentence just made me understand that you are sacrificing EVERYTHING for this historic town. Much respect to you and when I get my paycheck I’ll make sure to donate some to you
@@krispyai4229 if you think this man is acting you have to be another level of brain dead.
@@krispyai4229 What caretaker? Where did you find that? Do you have a youtube title, or an article?
@@krispyai4229 So, I looked into it...
> The business partner is Jon Bier, who currently has a newborn child and lives at home with his family.
> The caretaker is a 70 year old man named Robert, who Brent has referred to several times in other videos. A few months back, Robert went home to his wife because of Corona. I'm not sure if he is still with his wife, or just doesn't like being on camera.
> The fire was investigated, and no foul play was detected.
I really don't have any reason to believe in conspiracy reasons. Especially because Cerro Gordo was sold to Brent and Jon because of their vision of the town. (There was a higher bid, but the owners went in favor of Brent and Jon's plan to preserve the history of the town)
@@krispyai4229 he literally shows the caretakers home and mentions him in a couple of videos, he isnt hiding that.
@@krispyai4229 Sorry he’s not reacting to the destruction of a huge part of his life’s work exactly how you wanted him to. Once you’ve spent millions of dollars and several months on a huge part of your life for it to burn down in a few hours while you have no choice to push forward and rebuild, I hope you’ll come to understand why he didn’t react exactly how you thought he should.
Holy crap. I just realized i'm watching this a year later from you posting this. Started watching because of Heavy D Sparks. Glad you got the new foundation poured now!
I remember watching this when I came out.. and remembering him say he needed a lot of help.. just rewatching.. and when he said it this time.. it hit hard.. but knowing that HD did offer a massive hand towards it with everything he is doing really puts the significance across for Brent..
Just discovered you a couple hours ago and now I'm heartbroken and crying.
I believe your dream will become a new reality.
Me too. Hope the best for you.
I am in the exact same boat. It’s been an hour and a half since I found this channel and I am sick to my stomach and have tears. Such an unbelievably devastating loss 😭 I am definitely a subscriber for life now. I can’t wait for the day he achieves this beautiful dream. It’s not a matter of “if” but “when” 💕
@@itschelseakay SAME! Ugh. What a turn. But.. no destruction, no creation. Sometimes a clean slate is more than anyone could imagine.
You're not the only one in tears. It's so sad.
I'm having the same experience you did. Really heartbreaking.
Heartbreaking, man. The hotel has a lot of historical stuff and can NEVER be replaced.
You think?
@@cumdinewitme the woodwork can be replaced, but at a very high cost... The historical stuff, on the other hand, cannot. They looked in very good condition... For the same things it would be very hard to find replacements in the same condition (and would end up costing a lot too). And that not counting transportation costs for tge bigger things.
But yeah, some of the things in there can never be replaced.
Thanks Captain Obvious
Way to kick a man
@@jamesbuckland89 I know right?
For the love of God, turn on those ads!!
boosting this comment
+1
Straight
boosting !
Bump
This video absolutely breaks my heart. The hotel was just so gorgeous and so ready for a new lease on life I absolutely cannot believe this happened. I don't know how I'd move forward.
I am not an American, but I feel pain that we lost the history
Same
Same 😔
Indeed, there is so much dignity and honest labor in those old buildings.
Sehe ich genauso.
Ist immer sehr schade wenn etwas unwiederbringlich verloren geht.
> same
@@gabrielgodoy2970 same
I am a carpenter from Australia and I would love nothing more then to travel to the States to help you rebuild but my whole country is shut and my state of Victoria has some of the strongest lockdown measures I will donate tho stay strong mate
Yea it sucks to be a Victorian right now! :( I hope it opens soon cos I'd love to go see this place!
Aussie here watching, wishing I could do the same thing. What a tragic loss. So much history, just gone in an instant. :(
I think, if you can relocate out of Australia soon it would be wise to do it. Something foul seems to be afoot with your gvt. Well ours doesn't seem so good either, but our foul tide is more of a bad storm at the moment. Has to be a country to escape to where I are not tazered outside watching a kids game! Or fined so bad u will be making time payments for eternity for stepping out of line! My family has married to Australians, who now live here, so I watch the goings on over there. Scary stuff to be sure!
@@pOOL_pANTS I've seen you writing this on several videos now, and I'm not trying to start an arguement, but can you please explain your theory behind this? Seriously Abbey, I'm interested to hear your take on things.
mate that must be gut wrenching!Aussie here as well.. would ve gladly loved to come over and help out. but borders are closed and 2 weeks quarantine back and forth for over a month won't do any of us good. Will donate instead 🙏
I live roughly 4 hours away man, if I can and I will, I’ll dedicate every other weekend or even longer if I can to come help, you just let me know and I’ll do my best!
How did it go?
@@booni5114 yes, I fix falafel for them to eat.
@@booni5114 Wondering the same
RayJ...Good Man... What a shocker!
I’m still waiting on a response, my wife and I even added ourselves to his volunteer list, hoping to hear something soon, my family and I watch him every new update, we are one of many who admire this man for chasing his dream. Sadly no though, I haven’t been up there yet, I’d hate to come off as someone aimlessly warding over without consent. I’m old fashion, I like to let others know I’m coming rather than just showing up. Lol maybe we’ll leave a gift at his gate by the road or mail him.
For most of my life, I have been telling everyone how I am going to pack it in and move to Darwin or Lone Pine. Time isn’t right yet, but your videos transport me to the Owens Valley, fulfilling my 395 yearnings for now. Looking forward to the day when LA isn’t sucking the Owens Valley dry! Enjoy your fantastic Night Sky❣️
Wow, you actually gave this former investment banker turned marketer and grifter money! Holy cow. I'm just speechless
@@10ftSamsquanchy Why do not like him? I'm new so don't know much about him. Thanks
@@Neilukukhe did not spend a lot of his own money on this town, he was/is a rich investment banker and got investments from his very rich friends to buy the town. Also the destruction of the hotel is entirely his own fault, he is the one destroying history, the hotel was fine until he showed up
@@10ftSamsquanchy
😢
Fucking clown gave a millionaire 50$ lmfao
Imagine if it would have happened with some of your early guests sleeping in there, the new hotel will be better and safer.
Yeah that's the good news 'ay? Now they know that dodgy electrics were used back in the day and over time they get even worse.
It's a hard one to swallow but the good news is that the electrics are all fixed now and the owner's well aware of the dangers. The good news is that the whole site's now safer and more aware as a result.
djgamble07 these college types only think about the wort possible scenario never try to see the good in a person the just assume things based on what they themselves would’ve done
exactly
I was going to write exactly this.
Sad but wouldn't have happened if left alone. Sure you can rebuild but all that history is gone forever
I haven't felt my heart sink like this at a caption before.. glad to know you are safe. Your hard work and videos have made this part of history immortal.we all love and support you! Big hug!!
same here
We were FEELING the Same way!!!! Hang in there!! Don’t give up!!
Sorry for the long delay in videos. I got appendicitis as the snow melted, then this disaster, so I haven't been filming or putting things up for a while. I can't describe how devastating this is, but we'll have to come back. No other choice really. Here is a way to help. Everyone's support has meant so much: www.gofundme.com/f/cerro-gordo
(Edit) Episode 5: th-cam.com/video/Rq1iGv0njNw/w-d-xo.html
Ghost Town Living where do we donate money?
Ghost Town Living I found it. I’m so sorry that happened. Looking forward to seeing it rebuilt and thriving. Good luck to you!
Dear owner of Cerro Gordo,
After watching the Sam and colby video and seeing what happened to the hotel and seeing how it made you upset, it gave me a understanding of how this place really matters to you. I wish you the best of luck to get the hotel back as it was before the disaster. Your a great man with alot of goals to do. You own a great place and should be proud of yourself. The people that do this to you are totally crappy people. This town was a huge investment and you saved up alot for this. In the end what's happening to you that makes you upset shouldn't happen.
-Sam
Dude if I didn’t live in England I’d come help rebuild the history of this town and make it modern with the old parts of it in the inside
@@whuguilherme same. But I live even further. Slovakia
I am here June 2024. His heart break BROKE me. I want to give him and hug and HELP him rebuild. (Even tho this was 4 years ago) You can see how much he loves this place. I can’t wait to visit ❤
Dude turn on ads! Please! I’ll gladly watch a 5 second ad to help
Add will help bro do everything you can
Aw my heart broke for him
Me too. the ads would be a way for me to help re-build.
actually yes for this man i would watch even a minute long ad!
I'm trying to watch all ads...so sad.
That was just brutal to watch, I can't imagine the pain of loosing history like that.
If you look at it at its height and you look at it where it's at you realize that much of its history is gone away many times over throughout the years.
Coincidentally most that humans ever built or will be building will all be destroyed by fire. Pretty consistent throughout our history
I'm so sorry. What a terrible loss. I'm glad you're physically okay.
I hope you are taking care of yourself, you are looking thinner. I don't normally comment on this sort of thing but it's concerning.
Sending you major mojo. Xo
The demons are getting him
@@vesturedippedinblood4450 stfu, what a stupid insensitive thing to say.
@@vesturedippedinblood4450 your belief in "demons" is laughable. Dumb-ass thing to say.
He had a bad case of appendicitis right before the fire. So he was ill for a bit before, that that's probably why he looks a little thinner.
Just a time traveller dropping in to say I just watched the concrete pour video 12 months later and wanted to let you know everything will be okay. The story continues.
Greetings from 2022 - The future is bright !
lol he burned it down on purpose to generate clout and views
@@Blox117 yea, because people like him, a whole hearted and honest man, would destroy century old history for some views. smh i hate when people like you try to make bullshit like this.
@@Blox117 He doesn't even have ad revenue turned on, smart one🤦🏽♂️
My heart breaks every time I see this video. When I first started watching Brent I was doubtful he would really want to restore Cerro Gordo, but this really changed my perspective of him. I hate that this happened, but Brent has come away from this a better, stronger person. I can't wait to see this all for myself some day.
This absolutely shocked me. I found your channel today and I have been binge watching from the beginning. This is so heartbreaking. Your journey is a fun one to watch because I can see your passion in each video. From what you’ve shared, this is a big risk you have taken and this tragedy would have easily caused most people to give up. I am officially subscribed and I will continue to watch the rest of your videos to hopefully see the great things that come out of this.
This just happened to me two hours ago. I watched the latest update video, then went back to the beginning. This was not expected.
@@JustinWPruett Same here. Honestly I teared up a little seeing such a beautiful building with so much history turn into a pile of rubble.
Young man, you are so strong! The end of this story is only the beginning. Best is yet to come because of your sweet spirit.
Stay strong and positive, you'll get through this. Keep safe.
Seeing structures, historical relics, and valuable items burn down hurts my soul. This video hurts to watch and brings me sadness. I hope everything gets better and nothing like this happens again there at Cerro Gordo.
It will, its part of the NATURAL cycle of life.
This is heartbreaking! I remember this building in Ghost Adventures, and it was just incredible how much history it held and the stories surrounding it. And then to see you experiencing it, it was just wonderful to see. New to the channel, so I'm a bit late to the journey, but so happy someone like you has taken on the challenge of this mining town. I hope to one day be a visitor!!
its amazing to sit here watching you literally create history. imagine having such an impact on so many people and leaving a story of how YOU did something amazing. just like mr gordo. you will be remembered for this...for generations to come
I'm so sorry to hear the loss in your voice, Brent. The American Hotel before it's tragedy was a beautiful place from what you gave us the courtesy to see and certainly a place I would've loved to have a beer in. I only recently found your channel today and can already say I appreciate the efforts you and others are taking in making a distant memory one that's close again. From what I can imagine and just the confirmation in the sadness in this video, it seems like Cerro Gordo is your new home and I do hope lovely talented people aid what they can to help. Honestly, if I was talented and daring enough I'd find the idea of working on a location like Cerro Gordo from start to finish an amazing and once in a lifetime opportunity that I'd take. And I do wish to have that courage one day maybe in a lesser scale if opportune. Like many in the comments, I want to aid in the ways that I can and beyond donating I was wondering what other possibilities are there to help?
I don't know what the city/state regulations are regarding a volunteer program to help rebuild are, but maybe the regulations could be found in researching about farms stays and things like that. Unlike traditional farm stays maybe the program at Cerro Gordo could be a weekends or a week or something so then it's more manageable for most people? Just thoughts, but I know I'd be interested in something like that and depending on what's needed and the volunteer's individual skills (ex: gardening, sewing, carpentry, art, technology, etc.) maybe it'd be fun. Keep climbing the mountain Brent because I believe you're going to get there
- - -
Edit: I did check the link about volunteer forms which did answer my original question, so thank you. I have some following questions regarding the form sign ups so if there's a email or something where I can send those questions then please let me know. I'd love to learn more
I dont even know why I got this in my recommendation but dude..... im so sorry for what happened. All that history may be lost in its physical form but you have preserved it forever on here. Keep your head up and keep moving forward.
Thank god you didn’t have a hotel full of family, friends or guests when that dodgy wiring started an inferno when they all would have been asleep.... a blessing x
@Rich P I didn’t say god it’s an expression pull your bogan head in
@Rich P well oh my god 😆 ok ... being the psychic loving witch that I am I better say thank the universe for that synchronicity
@Rich P 😂😂
I'd take it as a sign that all the units need to be gone over with a good inspector. I'm sure you thought of that. Thankful no one was hurt. Broke my heart to see that happen. Good luck with the rebuild and look forward to my donation as well.
and i hope the new wiring in the rebuilding will be up to code
:( this is terrible! To visit this place felt like a dream, and it's sad to see a part of it burned down..
I've watched a bunch of the more recent videos and knew this happened, but went back to start watching from the beginning and this still hit hard. I'm glad to know that you've come to terms with this disaster and that you've continued forward with the dream.
Just so grateful you were in a safe place when this tragedy struck
I'm back watching this after watching the live stream of the new hotel basement being DONE! It's been such an amazing journey watching this happen. I found you a year ago. And every video I watch feels like being part of history. What you're doing, with the help of the outstanding community, is amazing. I live about 7 hours away from Cerro Gordo. I am 100% going to visit.
It really really sucks.. but if your gunna run old electrical, theres always a good chance this happens..
Full rewire on every building if you wanna run the electricity.. i know its costly.. But the history is priceless
Vital. electrical is always a patched together after thought.
such a humble man, stay strong brother! i know once a genuine person that's financially stable sees this will help you out, it's a minor setback for a major comeback 🙏🏼 i have faith
Maybe you should consider bringing an electrician to go over all the electrical in all the buildings before you have another mishap.
That's what I was thinking.
But I also know there are 3 major things you check on when you buy any old property.
1. Wiring/electric.........2. Gas/propane tanks and old piping....... 3. Water pipes and underground tanks.
3 problems you don't want when buying any old property that has buildings already built.
You don't want any type of fires, floods or gas explosions.
Before I would even think of fixing up any buildings on the property, I'd have those 3 things checked in each building.
I feel bad for this guy. I wish I could help in some way.
Absolutely correct. People don't like to spend budget on things they can't see. Which is tragic because now nobody can see anf of that. If that building was left alone it would still be standing. Im not saying it was malicious or anything. Just makes my stomach turn to see history destroyed. Sad for everyone im sure.
@@rickperry3165 Also, ground and groundwater contamination. And insurance. Holy crap did this guy spend a million dollars with no insurance?! I mean his first task was to try to die almost barefoot with no batteries, and his second task was to dive down miner's deathtraps alone with no supplies, no partner, no outside information. He thinks a snow dusting is a blizzard and he tells us never to do the spelunking he's doing, so he does the stuff where he knows better anyway, and he ignores the other perfectly obvious deathtraps. He's trying as hard as he can to go broke or to die a stone's throw from safety. How's he not going to do that?
Logan Jeansonne he said something about a discovery of some substandard or spliced wiring. Is that the electrician who did that substandard work or did he warn that someone else had done so?
It's sad, that building was in pretty good shape! Might be a good idea to cut the electricity in the buildings that don't need it... So something like that doesn't happen again
Hello Brent, I subscribed to your channel when you first stayed, in your makeshift camp, in an old cabin on a side hill. Just catching up on your progress, and watced this video of the old American Hotel. Sorry for your loss. I admire old gold mining. Noticed the old parlor stove. If you salvadged that from the fire, it can be restored. I just restored the exact stove, Simplicity 316. Made in Newark, Ohio. The New American Hotel can have the same palor stove again one day!! I´m Randy, from New Salem, ND
This is genuinely one of the saddest things I’ve ever seen on the internet.
:(
I’m so sorry this happened to you . My heart is breaking for you I’m sending you a hug from San Antonio and hopefully one day I can make a road trip to this wonderful place . I was going to buy an Apple Watch but I would rather donate to rebuild this great place .
Absolutely heartbreaking what happened but seeing and hearing your resolve to rebuild and keep moving forward through the grief and tears is absolutely inspiring. A lot of people - most people - would have thrown in the towel and given up (and no one could really blame them for choosing to) but you chose the hard path and from where I'm looking back a year later, that resolve is paying off in dividends.
I am sorry to say that it has taken me 18 months to finally watch this. I was subscribed from the beginning, but I have had my own difficulties the last two years. Seeing how far you have come since this happened is inspiring.
Man I didn't even watch the whole video and I'm already crying. That was devastating.
Dang man.. I've been following the whole series, I personally as a Dutch guy never heard of Cerro Gordo, but it looks amazing I love the American Historical Architecture.. That Hotel was so gorgeous.. I felt your pain man.. Even though I've never heard of it. I wish you guys all the best, if I were around your area I would definitely come out and help..
I know this comment is late and I know that it's probably a long shot, but I'm curious if you've reached out to Zak Bagans and the crew of ghost adventures or the travel channel. Zak did an episode of ghost adventures on the Cerro Gordo Ghost town and I'd imagine he would understand the tragedy of losing such a precious piece of history. Perhaps he could help bring attention to the town and you could capitalize on the storied history and the attractiveness of paranormal experiences for adventure seekers.
Sorry for your loss, but there are few things that spirits hate more then modifying their homes.I hope the rebuild goes well.
That jerk wouldn't help his mother.
@@andyokus5735 He is a Ball Bag.
Good idea
Yes you must try that
OMG Brent I’ve only just discovered your epic adventure and am watching all your episodes from the beginning… I’m absolutely gutted for you this is devastating … I’m from the uk and hooked on your adventures … one day I wish to meet you and explore your town … keep up the great work 👌
Ive just found channel now and first couple vids had me interested, and the emotion in this episode showed me how much passion is in his heart. I am subscribed and hope and pray that this all works out in end and one day he can look back and say you know what we did it.
Same, UK 🇬🇧
Just found it too! Watched the 3 years later recap, which got me hooked, and now im gonna watch it from the start!
Gutted.....litterally. i am so sorry.
GET THE OTHER BUILDINGS ELECTRICAL SYSTEM CHECKED..... (not shouting.....wailing and sobbing! )
Keep going if you can.
@@pOOL_pANTS Oh...that's sad how did you find out?
@@pOOL_pANTS thats what I was surprised about as in the UK you must have insurance even for public liability, with this sort of buildings in a litigious nation they must have had insurance surely.
@@pOOL_pANTS well...they don't have to give if they don't want to or can't. You must give people the respect of making their own choices in life save those officially of diminished capacity, otherwise you will end up with a dictatorship by stealth and cancel culture. This leads to a dark place even with the best of intentions.
An insurance agent could retire on the premiums of this place. Are you kidding. Old wood burns fast
He’s allowed to be upset.
Best of luck. Im from Puerto Rico and know the feeling. After hurricane Maria destroyed the island.... I know exactly how that feels.
Sorry Sorry sweetie. I wish I had the funds and time to help you. I know this is devastating to you. I love the dream you have and your making it come true. Keep history alive and rebuild. Best of wishes.
I know exactly how you feel. I’m from Ponce,PR and tons of old historic buildings or roads were destroyed thanks to the Earthquakes and Hurricanes. Saddest part is seeing your literal memories go up in shambles. Just irreplaceable.....
@@casketman14 💔💔😢
From Mayaguez here ✌🏼... same
Oh gosh. I'm heartbroken for you. I hope you've managed to overcome the loss somewhat over the past year or so. Such a tragedy. Sending wishes x
I am so sorry that this has happened to you and Cerro Gordo 😥. I live in Sweden so can't do anything to help really. I hope you get all the help you and the town need to get it all rebuilt so people can come and experience the history of Cerro Gordo 💕
I feel the antiques were far more important than the building, THAT SUCKSSS!!!!
that building was one of those antiques not to take away from the loss of them.
The building was the biggest antique there
The saloon was the coolest place to me. The conversations between those walls must’ve been crazy.
@@Daryl409 yeah especially how there was still a bullet hole in the wall and a blood stain i thought that was cool and it is a piece of history that can not be rebuilt
are you kidding, it's the building!!
This is heartbreaking. Just came across your channel, I've been binge watching all your video's. So sad to see all that history go up in smoke. Keep up the dream, good things can come out of tragedy!
Seeing you get emotional talking about the tragedy was heartbreaking. The level of love and appreciation you have for this town, your home, is so touching. The fact you found the original floor plans not even a week before the fire is a sign. A sign of bigger and better things to come. That hotel will be everything and more once it’s done. Sending tons of love and positive vibes your way!!! Xo.
its a sign alright. a sign he burned it down on purpose
Shut up!
Never ever give up good man. I'm so sorry to see this it broke my heart so I can imagine how you must feel hope you're ok now. I wish I could come over and help id love to. stay strong mate you got this 👊👍🤜🤛
I am heartbroken with you. Keep an eye out for the gold the old boy hid under the hotel.
You will come back stronger.
I'm so so so sorry. My heart is aching for you and the town. This is incredibly devastating but I am eager to see how Cerro Gordo will rise up from the ashes. Just donated. Best wishes
Just 20 minutes ago I commented on the last video that it was a horrible idea to have visitors staying in these houses. These old buildings should be for daylight show only with no running water, electricity, gas or anything harmful for the buildings and there should be a whole separate hotel built. Very lucky that this burned in 2020 and not in 2022 with full of quests.
His face said it all. Heartbreaking. But thank god no one one was staying in there.
this feels like a cautionary tale.
Honestly cried with you on this one. I love your dedication. Please keep up the good work!!
Im sorry this happened, your reaction to it broke my heart, its obvious how much you love this place and how much of yourself you put into it. Keep strong ❣️
I'm not an American. I was born and raised in Switzerland. But I lived and worked in California from late 2014 to early 2018 before I moved back to Switzerland. I've been near Cerra Gordo in the summer of 2017. I've seen it from afar. Beautiful old mining village. And the hotel was clearly THE centerpiece of it all. What a tragedy!! But I am sure you are not to blame! Old buildings made of wood are frequently burning down. But the story of the place is not lost "just" because it burned down. A lot of buildings from the past have been destroyed and rebuilt and the story of these places lives on in the new building. As long as the people don't forget the past, it will live on in pictures and memories.
You will rebuild it and it will once again be the centerpiece and pride of the village.
I hope I will be able to visit Cerro Gordo at some point in the future. I'll be glad to spend a night in the new hotel and I hope I will meet you there when the time comes.
All the best to you and everybody involved!
Greetings from Switzerland
As I watched you walk through the ash my heart sank... I know the feeling of walking through the ashes of a place you loved. My childhood home burned down a few years ago and it’s a difficult feeling.. I’m sorry that you had to go through this and I wish I could help
Thanks, it is a tough thing, huh? Sorry for your loss too
I feel your pain. I had a cafe in Bali that took me 5 years to build and Covid killed it in a few months, Look through rubble, you might find a blessing. Stay strong brother #muchlove
That's sad. I'm sorry.
@@daltonbrasier5491 yeah cause viruses are all the governments fault, and saving lives is stupid....
@@daltonbrasier5491 are you stupid? that is to save lives. Do you know what the 'Curve' is?
@@daltonbrasier5491 Flattening the curve means keeping infections to a manageable level. If the number of infected people becomes unmanageable they get no medical treatment. With no medical treatment for a virus that causes breathing issues or just taxes the immune system so that it cannot fight off any bacteria that it normally would can have deadly effects. So, what part of flattening the curve is unnecessary?
@@daltonbrasier5491 I may be rude, but I'm not the one saying that the economy matters more than peoples lives. And yes actually places that didn't lock down did and still are having higher rates of infection and adverse effects, and if you cannot stem the spread of infection hospitals get overrun and don't have enough to effectively treat people (like respirators) which leads to many unnecessary deaths due to easily treatable causes. I'm not saying lockdowns are without any side effects, only that they are better than intentionally letting a deadly virus infect a mass number of people making hospitals useless.
So sorry about the fire. Mama always told what doesn’t kill makes you stronger. I will be praying for you and help when I can.
I was just watching your new video and wanted to come see what you were talking about. I am so sorry this happened. I am a big tattooed guy and I am tearing up cause I can see and feel your pain. I'm so glad that you and HeavyD met. You are going to make it an absolutely beautiful place brother.
I'm a woodworker in Washington State. Dealing with a lot of reclaimed wood that has all the history my heart goes out to you.
I'll check out the links but I'd love to come down on vacation sometime and lend my skills!
Such a cool thing you're doing there. At the very least I'll be vacationing there as a guest.
Me too!
When I was a child, we visited Leadville, CO where overseas "investors" came in and "bought" the grand hotel without actual money and proceeded to rip out all the historic features including the foyer floor made of silver dollars set in mortar. It was a tragedy. We got to go into the hotel before it was renovated into what are now apartments and see how they ripped holes in the side walls to build ramps so that they could cart out all the historic fixtures. In the end, they never paid for the building nor for the items they took. I feel sad for you and your dreams, but historic items can be found. I wish you the best.
This is like a Scooby Doo episode ghosts and a building burning down, dude it’s the care taker who doesn’t like the meddling kids taken over
Although I watched this video before, I watched it again and it still brought tears to my eyes and heartbreak... I am so glad that the rebuilding has started again.. Amazing people coming together to help. Bless you all for helping.
I gotta, ask. Why on earth would you have even risked having the electricity on to the hotel without an extensive inspection and or replacement?
it was an old propane tank that exploded
@@jonimcdougall7624 The propane tank exploded as a result of the fire. It didn't cause the fire.
Yup , that old wiring is nothing to play around with. Realistically the whole building should have Been updated. No way to use that wiring safetly
@Sassy Grsassy What makes you think they didn’t have insurance? It’s a business operating in the state of California 😂 you can’t even use the hoist without paying a “qualified hoist operator”
I'm so sad and so sorry that that happened, that's tragic.😭
Other little known fact -- the dress was painted on because the original painting was "against community guidelines".
Dario Impini Im so sad it burned down I loved that painting so much
@@N0N4M30 Seriously? OMG that's awful. WTF? The saloon burned down??
@@N0N4M30 OMG did I not watch the whole video? Holy crap. I'm so sorry dude. This was a fairy tale I admired so much. Ugh. :'(
Where'd you hear that? Is there a website with more info on the town?
@@DoctorWhoNow01 What, the fact the saloon burned down or "community guidelines"? The latter was a joke. The former a horrid tragedy.
Oh man, Brent! I started watching your videos a few weeks ago and was so inspired with your love for Cerro Gordo. I shared a video with my mom and she realized that she had been to Cerro Gordo as a child before you owned it and she said how much it inspired her to want to build a homestead and live life more like they did back then, she now lives on and owns her own farm. I just came across this video about the fire and I am crying for you! I am so sorry this happened. All of that history lost... its such a bummer. Keep your dream up! I hope you are getting the help you need to rebuild. ❤️
I know it is late, but I was sitting crying with Brent as he told us of the terrible fire. He is not broken and will rebuild, we just need to support him. Thanks and so sorry Brent. xxx
im so sorry about what happened. You look skinnier man please take care of yourself as much as you can
Leif E. Greenz addiction to what? mans is in the middle of nowhere where would he get his supply from anyways? 😂😂
Leif E. Greenz hes skinny cause no real food available
as someone who has played the piano for over a decade, 1:32 will haunt me to my grave
It was just an out of tune piano. The only reason it would haunt me is if some thought they could and did not recognize that. I am not saying u. I just know people who have no musicality. I myself have a degree in it and produce music for a living
David Hageage i mostly was just trying to say how out of tune i think it is. My Aunt (and piano teacher) had a lot of pianos in her studio, most slightly out of tune. But ive never heard such an old out of tune piano like in this video before. I hate it.
Just watching this for the first time now. My first sight of the (new) American Hotel was in May 2023 when I ran the Silver Run. It was the first thing I noticed when rounding the mountainside into the town, and even while gasping for air and feeling like I was about to pass out, I was amazed at the progress you and your team have made in just a couple years. This gave me a nice mental boost to help me make it to the finish line and experience some good cheers. It really hits "close to home" now that I've seen a glimpse of what you went through to get it to its current state. A testament that anything can be revived or completed with time if your heart is set in the right place. Staying tuned for this awesome journey.
Put ads on these man, would love to support in at least that way.
Been in that hotel 5 or 6 years ago passing through on my motorcycle. Just another amazing piece of mining history and spectacular riding and vistas I also live in a living ghost town Virginia City Montana and a volunteer firefighter. I am sorry for your loss and hope some folks can help. Keep us updated
How do you survive in a ghost town? Retirees?
Look man, i cried with you and your lost, and i'm gonna say sommeting you might not believe, but i'm gona say anyways. I can feel the power on your dreams and now it's a shared dream ,with a lot of people believing in your dream. That sad episode cam be a sign that your dream fits more on you drawing your history on this place instead of looking to the past. I'm pretty shure, in that ashes will born new ideas, and your history will change that place. I wish you the best!
@@BobDevV I got your point but i have another point of view. I have a couple of friends who had some dreams with a lot of specific layouts about a place who serves food but a lot of other diferent things also. They had so much obstacles, but everybody was caught believing in that dream with them including me. They had little, but they had passion and working hands. The reality don't broke their dreams but changes it, and now i dare to say, they have even more(in the middle of the pandemia). A lot of things can be done in that place. Its a beautiful place and a lot of people looks for isolation, and he can engage people along the process to help him. What i see is the money beeing a think he needs, but the motivation is restore and built. He seems happy doing that.
Great ghost town. Visted there 30 years ago with a friend on dirt bikes and was amazed how well preserved the American Hotel was. Glad to see so many people taking an interest in restoring Cerro Gordo.
Renovations are too often the cause of fires. Charging a drill battery, running a chop saw without knowing the wiring isn't fuse protected properly. Very terrible. Just an accident. I'm thinking it would be an amazing place for people to experience, but it's perhaps there was a risk this could have happened with visitors. It was pretty awesome we got to see more than just old photographs of the place. Your footage could bring it back with skilled contractors. Some of the coolest places I have been to were total reconstructions of the original.
Brings to mind the Notre Dame fire this year, or was it last year? They were renovating at the time. And that was with experienced workers.
Terrible news. In case it was electrical, consider cutting power to the buildings when not in use or at night.
Adam Kalbasz should not need to do so when the electricity will be new and fresh.
@@2strokepower803 There is no such thing as 'old' electricity, so saying 'new and fresh' electricity doesn't really make sense lol
Plus, since one building just burned down because of faulty wiring, it seems like a rather smart idea to cut the power to the rest when not in use. You know, so they don't all burn down.
michael D I meant old wires. They have probably been around since maby the 50s. Time to rewire the town. Under a long period because I know that will cost so yea cutting the power to the buildings until all is rewired is a good idea
A captain always goes down with his ship. "I'm gonna die at Cerro Gordo." That hit me so hard.
Things change and get old, he will be done with this place in 5 years or less
Jesus people. The guy is probably doing more than most here ever will.
I personally support anyone living their dream. The world would be a drag without people like him.
@Rabbit Hole It's for the historical factor, I would most definitely want to stay there even if it's a difficult trek up. The views are incredible, the history is insane. But each to their own, there's many people that just aren't interested in the history of locations and that's perfectly fine.
@Rabbit Hole ....&everyone in general-wasn't this very concept, build anew, exactly how The New World came to fruition?
What happened to Robert, the caretaker who had been there for years. We have been to this location several times thru the years... absolutely magical!!. Stay strong. People will help and we can begin to collect antiques to restore what was there. Take care of yourself and be ready for a remarkable future!!
The Phoenix Ranch Hotel at Cerro Gordo has a nice ring to it. You’ll rise from the ashes just like your hotel!
Best thing. No lives were lost. Can always rebuild. You got this bud. Keep up the good work
This is very tragic. I can only think about how this really shows the importance of having water on site. Before restoring more buildings you should maybe try to get some large water tanks on the property and have fire hazard plans in place. So sorry for this misfortune, I've donated to help as much I can, hope to see this place thriving soon again. Blessings are hidden in tragedy most often. This event will make you stronger, and like you said in the video where you got lost in the snow, there are unknown dangers and things to be learned about cerro gordo. You've now gained another very valuable lesson on your mission to bring this wonderful place back to life.
Get 20,000 gallons in a tank or pond uphill from the town. Gravity will work with no dependence on a motor-powered pump.
Damn. I teared up just from the raw emotions in this video. I just started watching your journey today and I'm here for it. I'm going to keep watching. Looks like I have quite a few months to catch up on. Wishing you the best.
I love your content and passion, and I wish you the best with your endeavors. I am confident in your commitment and ability to bring this lifelong project to fruition. Stay strong!
I didn’t expect that sort of tragedy. The loss of that sort of historical relic is truly saddening. Wow! It’s a year later but I’m definitely going to donate to the reconstruction of the building. My dad grew up in Barstow and I get the feeling this isn’t too far from there. He was also a hard rock and coal miner. So it hit me especially hard knowing what that sort of history that building has seen and what it part of American history the mining industry played in the foundation of our country.
Dude, I've been wondering what happened to you and Cerro Gordo! I'm so sorry that this happened but I'm glad no one was hurt. Still can't wait to see how Cerro Gordo turns out. I donated what I could and you seem to have a lot of support.
I don't have a lot of technical skill, but if you just need hands to help, I'm around the area and unemployed due to Covid 19 so I could come help.
@@silenthodoo9643 creep
Did he contact you to help?Or is he talking shit?
@@pOOL_pANTS uh what?
Just in case you didn't see it, he linked a volunteer sign-up sheet in his video description! I wish I could help too, but I'm too far :(
@@artended do you have like some personal issue with him? I generally help people when effed up things happen to them regardless of whether it was by random coincidence, accident, mistake, or whatever. Giving money is one thing, but to just lend your time when you have it to give is different. Treat others how you wish to be treated. Imagine if a building you owned burned down and someone didn't want to help you because they thought you were faking it. That's pretty heartless.
My heart is shattered. I’m so sorry. I’m at a loss for words. The history and all the work and love that was in that building has been lost and it’s nothing except a tragedy. I’m just so sorry💔
How sad--all those precious historical treasures--including the building itself--lost. I'm so sorry. I can feel your pain; we suffered a fire in our workshop back in 2007, and while the actual structural integrity wasn't damaged, we did have to rebuild all the inside--cabinets, sheetrock, etc...and we lost some irreplaceable items. So while it isn't the same thing at all, I can empathize with the awful feeling.
I wish I did live closer---I would help as much as my 74 years would allow. I first learned of this on HeavyDSparks channel... I'm glad they came and helped. I'm glad you're keeping on with the project. The world needs more people like you.
One way to help is to allow the ads to run through. That’s how he will get the Ad Sense so he can put that towards the rebuilding of this beautiful historic town.