Ashford Mill, California, Inyo County is an intriguing ghost town situated within the desolate beauty of Death Valley National Park. Once a bustling site during the gold rush era, it now stands as a haunting reminder of the impermanence of human effort. Below is detailed information about the town.
County: Inyo County
Zip Code: Not available
Latitude / Longitude: 35.9731° N, 116.6881° W
Elevation: Approximately 121 feet below sea level
Time Zone: Pacific Time Zone (PT)
Established: 1914
Disestablished: The mill ceased operations by 1919
Comments: Ashford Mill was established by brothers Henry and Oscar Ashford in 1914 to process gold ore from their mine, known as the Golden Treasure Mine, situated several miles to the east. The mill played an essential role in the mining operations but faced logistical challenges due to its remote location and the harsh desert environment.
Remains: Today, visitors to Ashford Mill can find the ruins of the mill’s concrete foundations and the remnants of a few structures. The site offers a glimpse into the early 20th-century mining efforts, with some interpretive signs providing historical context.
Current Status: Ashford Mill is part of Death Valley National Park and is upheld by the National Park Service. It is accessible to the public and serves as a historical point of interest for park visitors.
Remarks: The ghost town of Ashford Mill stands as a tribute to the transient nature of mining towns. Its remains, though limited, evoke the spirit of exploration and the pursuit of prosperity that defined the era. Visitors are encouraged to respect the site and preserve its historical integrity while enjoying the stark, compelling landscape of Death Valley.
