Atolia, California, San Bernardino County is a ghost town that whispers stories of California’s rich mining history. Once bustling with activity, it now stands as a tribute to the rise and fall of mining towns. Below is detailed information about the town.
County: San Bernardino County
Zip Code: Not available
Latitude / Longitude: 35.3550° N, 117.6039° W
Elevation: 2,536 feet
Time Zone: Pacific Time Zone (PST)
Established: 1907
Disestablished: Not officially disestablished, but declined significantly in the 1930s
Comments: Atolia was part of the tungsten boom in the early 20th century, driven by the need for tungsten during World War I. The town was named after the mining company, Atolia Mining Company, which was a combination of the names of two miners, Atkins and DeGolia. At its peak, Atolia had a population of over a thousand people and included amenities like a post office, stores, and even a school.
Remains: The site of Atolia now features remnants of its mining past, including scattered debris, old mining equipment, and foundations of once-standing buildings. The area is primarily marked by mining tailings and shafts, offering a glimpse into its industrious past.
Current Status: Atolia is an uninhabited ghost town. History enthusiasts and those interested in mining heritage often visit the site. It is accessible, but visitors should exercise caution due to the presence of old mining shafts.
Remarks: Atolia’s legacy is a fascinating chapter in California’s mining history, illustrating the boom-and-bust cycle typical of many mining towns. While nature and time have reclaimed much of the town, its historical importance remains, attracting those intrigued by the stories of early 20th-century mining endeavors.
