Ghost Towns of California
by Richard B. Miller

California is home to some of the best ghost towns in the United States. These old settlements can be found in many parts of the state, but the majority are in central California, generally west of San Francisco, in what is call the "Mother Lode" country. Here, gold and other metal were discovered during the middle and late 19th century.The remainder of these towns, many of which began as mining camps, can be found in the northwest part of the state or in the southeast desert area.

This guide covers full fledged ghost towns which are true ghost towns, abandoned communities with no residents, where unrestored buildings or remnants of them can be seen; restored or rebuilt ghost towns, most of which are thriving communities, such as Auburn and Grass Valley; and partial ghost towns where the town has survived to the present time and limited or scattered remains of ghost towns.

All of the towns are worth a visit and will reward the traveler with a glimpse of bygone days. It was not possible to include every California ghost town in this guide, but this section includes some of the best.

Most settlements can be reached with ease, although few may require a four-wheel drive vehicle. Poor roads and other hazards are mentioned in the text.

Covers 39 Ghost towns.

Published by Renaissance House Publishers, 1992, soft cover booklet, 48 pages.

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