Belleville, California, San Bernardino County captures the imagination with its intriguing history as a once-thriving gold rush town that has since faded into obscurity. Below is detailed information about the town.
County: San Bernardino County
Zip Code: Not available
Latitude / Longitude: 34.2892° N, 116.8492° W
Elevation: Approximately 6,000 feet
Time Zone: Pacific Time Zone (PT)
Established: 1860
Disestablished: Around 1870
Comments: Belleville was established during the gold rush era of the 1860s in the Holcomb Valley, becoming one of the largest towns in Southern California at the time. It was named after the daughter of one of the prospectors, Belle. The town quickly grew as miners were drawn by the promise of gold, transforming it into a bustling community.
Remains: Very little remains of Belleville today. Visitors can find scattered foundations, remnants of mining equipment, and a few other artifacts from its short-lived but vibrant existence. The area is largely overgrown, with nature reclaiming the land.
Current Status: Belleville is considered a ghost town, with no remaining active community. The site is accessible to visitors who are interested in exploring its history and remnants.
Remarks: Belleville’s rapid rise and fall are emblematic of the boom-and-bust nature of many gold rush towns. Despite its brief prominence, it left an enduring legacy, offering a glimpse into the past and the transient nature of such settlements. Today, the site is part of the San Bernardino National Forest, providing a peaceful setting for those who wish to explore its history and enjoy the surrounding area’s natural beauty.
