Isabella, California, Kern County is a ghost town with a rich history that once thrived during the gold rush era. Its story captivates those interested in the rise and fall of boom towns in the American West. Below is detailed information about the town.
County: Kern County
Zip Code: Not available
Latitude / Longitude: 35.6347° N, 118.4873° W
Elevation: Approximately 2,589 feet (789 meters)
Time Zone: Pacific Time Zone (PT)
Established: 1853
Disestablished: 1953
Comments: Isabella began as a gold mining camp in the early 1850s, attracting prospectors during the California Gold Rush. The town was named after Queen Isabella of Spain. It thrived as a community with a post office, businesses, and homes for a century. However, the construction of the Isabella Dam in 1953 inundated the original town site, resulting in its disestablishment.
Remains: The original town of Isabella is now submerged under Lake Isabella. However, some remnants and artifacts from the town can occasionally be seen when the lake’s water levels are low. Nearby areas still have traces of historical buildings and cemeteries hinting at the once lively community.
Current Status: The area where Isabella once stood is now part of Lake Isabella, a reservoir and popular recreational area. The surrounding region is known for outdoor activities such as fishing, boating, and hiking, attracting visitors year-round.
Remarks: Isabella’s transformation from a bustling gold rush town to a ghost town submerged under a lake poignantly reminds us of the transient nature of early settlements and the impact of infrastructure projects on communities. Today, Lake Isabella continues to draw interest for its recreational opportunities and historical significance.
