Ophir, ghost town in Placer County, California
Description
Ophir is a former mining settlement in Placer County, California, founded during the gold rush era. Today only a few structures remain, including a fire station, school, two businesses, and a small cemetery, with around 700 people living in the area.
History
Ophir was founded in 1849 as The Spanish Corral and renamed in 1850 after the biblical gold region. A major fire in 1853 destroyed most of the town, after which residents did not fully rebuild and the focus gradually shifted to quartz mining.
Culture
The name Ophir references a biblical land famed for gold, which attracted educated settlers familiar with ancient stories. This choice reflects how deeply gold shaped the community's identity and aspirations.
Practical
The site is easily reached from nearby Auburn and sits among gentle hills in Placer County. Visitors should expect limited facilities on site, with most shops and services located in surrounding towns.
Did you know?
A brass landmark marker documenting Ophir's history was stolen in 2012, but authorities recovered parts of it and replaced the commemorative plaque in 2014. This recent event shows how the town's story continues to matter to those who preserve it.
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The United States have hundreds of abandoned towns. This selection includes 100 of these places where time seems to stand still. Most grew rich in the 19th century through gold or silver finds. They attracted miners, traders, and whole families. When the veins were empty, people left. They left...
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