Greenwater, California, Inyo County is a long-abandoned mining town nestled in the arid desert of Inyo County. Once bustling with dreams of prosperity, Greenwater is now a ghost town with a haunting legacy. Below is detailed information about the town.
County: Inyo County
Zip Code: Not available
Latitude / Longitude: 36.3400° N, 116.5300° W
Elevation: Approximately 3,100 feet (945 meters)
Time Zone: Pacific Time Zone (PT)
Established: 1905
Disestablished: 1909
Comments: Greenwater was founded during the copper boom of the early 20th century. At its peak, it boasted a population of around 2,000 residents, drawn by the promise of copper riches. However, the town’s prosperity was short-lived due to the harsh desert environment and the realization that the copper deposits were not as extensive as initially believed.
Remains: Today, the remains of Greenwater are minimal. A few stone foundations and scattered debris mark the site where the town once stood. The harsh desert climate and the passage of time have erased most traces of the town’s brief existence.
Current Status: Greenwater is considered an abandoned ghost town. It is located within the boundaries of Death Valley National Park, which protects the area from further disturbance.
Remarks: Greenwater serves as a poignant reminder of the boom-and-bust cycles that characterized many mining towns in the American West. Its story is one of ambition and adversity, reflecting the indomitable spirit of those who sought fortune in the unforgiving desert landscape. Today, it draws visitors who are intrigued by its history and the stark beauty of its surroundings.
