Crown King, Arizona, is a town steeped in history and charm. Once a bustling mining community, it is now a ghost town that has retained its Wild West character.
Visitors can explore the remnants of the town’s past, including the saloon, general store, and other original buildings. Despite facing challenges such as wildfires, Crown King continues attracting visitors drawn to its unique atmosphere and rich history.
The history of Crown King dates back to the late 1800s when gold was discovered in the area. The Crowned King gold mine yielded over $2,000,000 in gold during its heyday, attracting miners and other settlers to the town.
Today, the town’s once-thriving mining industry is a thing of the past, but the remnants of that era remain, providing visitors with a glimpse into the Wild West of the past.
Crown King’s rich history and picturesque setting make it a must-visit destination for anyone interested in experiencing the unique charm of Arizona’s ghost towns.
Key Takeaways
- Crown King is a historic mining town in Yavapai County, Arizona that was once a thriving industry during the late 1800s.
- Visitors can explore the town’s rich history by visiting original buildings such as the old saloon and general store, and taking self-guided walking tours.
- Crown King is surrounded by the Prescott National Forest, offering outdoor activities such as hiking, camping, fishing, and off-road adventures.
- Despite facing challenges like wildfires, Crown King continues attracting visitors and hosting various events and festivals yearly.
History of Crown King
The history of Crown King involves the Crowned King gold mine serving as the town’s mainstay. The mine was owned by George P. Harrington, who bankrolled its operations. The mine’s owners did not tolerate drunkenness in their employees.
The town’s post office was established in 1888, and it has since been reopened in 1954. Over $2,000,000 in gold was taken from the Crowned King mine alone.
The railroad played a significant role in the town’s development by hauling ore and supplies from Prescott. However, the mine’s decline resulted in the railroad’s closure.
Today, many of the old and original buildings in Crown King remain, most of which are currently occupied. Despite the decline of the gold mine, Crown King remains an interesting place to visit, with its rich history and charming attractions.
Attractions in Crown King
Numerous well-preserved buildings, including a historic saloon and general store, offer a glimpse into the past of this former mining community nestled in the rugged mountains of Yavapai County. Visitors can explore the town and take a step back in time, imagining what life was like during the mining boom in the late 1800s.
The old saloon, which was moved from the ghost town of Oro Belle, is a must-see attraction, as is the general store.
Besides exploring the historic buildings, visitors can also take in the area’s natural beauty. Crown King is surrounded by the Prescott National Forest, which offers scenic hiking trails and picturesque views.
Additionally, the town hosts a number of local events throughout the year, such as the Crown King Scramble, a mountain bike race, and the Crown King Chili Cook-off.
With its combination of history, nature, and local events, Crown King is a unique destination that will delight visitors of all ages.
Visiting Crown King Today
Visitors to this former mining community nestled in the rugged mountains of Yavapai County can experience a unique blend of history, nature, and local events.
Crown King offers many outdoor activities, including hiking, camping, fishing, and off-road adventures. The Prescott National Forest surrounds the town, which provides ample opportunities for exploring nature. Visitors can hike the nearby trails, fish in the creeks and lakes, or take a scenic drive through the forest. The town also hosts various events and festivals throughout the year, including the Annual Crown King Scavenger Hunt, which takes place in the summer.
In addition to outdoor activities, visitors can immerse themselves in the town’s history by visiting the old saloon and general store. The saloon was moved from the ghost town of Oro Belle and offers a glimpse into the past with its rustic décor and antique furnishings. The general store, which has been in operation since the town’s founding in the late 1800s, sells everything from groceries to souvenirs. Visitors can also take a self-guided walking tour of the town to see the many old and original buildings, most of which are still in use today.
Overall, Crown King offers a unique and enjoyable experience for those interested in history, nature, and local events.
Frequently Asked Questions
What other mines were located in or near Crown King besides the Crowned King mine?
According to Exploring History, Mining Legacy: Other Mines in Crown King, AZ, there were several other mines in the area, including the Queen of Arizona and the Black Warrior. Local Legends, Ghostly Tales: Haunted Spots Near Crown King tells of ghostly activity at the Crowned King mine and other locations in town.
Are there any hiking trails or outdoor recreational activities in the area?
The area surrounding Crown King offers numerous hiking trails and scenic attractions for outdoor enthusiasts. Visitors can explore the nearby Bradshaw Mountains, hike to Horsethief Basin Lake, or enjoy off-roading adventures on the many forest service roads.
What is the population of Crown King today?
As the adage goes, “all good things must come to an end.” Crown King’s population has dwindled from its heyday due to economic development. Current demographics are unknown, but the town remains a historic destination.
Are there any annual events or festivals that take place in Crown King?
Crown King, a ghost town with historical significance, does not host any annual events or festivals. However, it offers a unique experience for ghost town tourism enthusiasts with original buildings, including an old saloon and general store, and a rich mining history.
Has Crown King been featured in any movies or TV shows?
Crown King’s pop culture influence includes appearances in the 2017 horror film “The Terror of Hallow’s Eve” and the 2018 TV series “Strange Angel.” Famous visitors include John Wayne and Clark Gable. Haunted legends surrounding Crown King add to its allure.
