Gerstley, California, Inyo County was once a bustling mining town in the heart of the California desert. It now stands as a testament to the transient nature of boomtowns. Below is detailed information about the town.
County: Inyo County
Zip Code: Not available
Latitude / Longitude: 36.6733° N, 117.5828° W
Elevation: Approximately 1,230 feet (375 meters)
Time Zone: Pacific Time Zone (PT)
Established: Early 1900s
Disestablished: Mid-20th century
Comments: Gerstley was primarily established as a mining town during the borax mining boom. It was named after the Gerstley Borax Company, which operated in the area. The town attracted workers and families due to the nearby lucrative borax deposits.
Remains: Very few structures remain standing today. Visitors might find remnants of mining equipment, the foundations of old buildings, and scattered artifacts that hint at the town’s industrious past.
Current Status: Gerstley is currently considered a ghost town. It has no permanent residents and serves as an intriguing site for those interested in mining history and desert exploration.
Remarks: The town of Gerstley offers a unique glimpse into California’s mining history and the fleeting nature of boomtowns. While it is mostly desolate now, its story is preserved through the remnants and the stark beauty of its desert setting. Visitors are encouraged to explore responsibly, respecting the fragile historical artifacts that remain.
