Swansea, Arizona, La Paz County: Swansea is a ghost town that captures the imagination with its rich history rooted in the mining boom of the early 20th century. Below is detailed information about the town.
County: La Paz County
Zip Code: Not available
Latitude / Longitude: 34.2317° N, 113.7421° W
Elevation: Approximately 1,800 feet (550 meters)
Time Zone: Mountain Standard Time (MST)
Established: Around 1909
Disestablished: Officially in the 1930s
Comments: Swansea was founded as a mining town during the copper boom, drawing workers and residents to its bustling community. It was named after the Welsh city of Swansea, a nod to its copper smelting roots. At its peak, the town had a population of several hundred people, with amenities such as a post office, saloons, a hospital, and a school. However, as the copper industry declined, so did the town’s prosperity.
Remains: Today, Swansea stands as a reflection of its vibrant past with several structures still visible, including the remains of the smelter, a few adobe houses, the old railway depot, and the town’s cemetery. These remnants offer a glimpse into the life of a once-thriving mining community.
Current Status: The Bureau of Land Management maintains Swansea as a historic site. Visitors can explore its ruins and reflect on the history of early 20th-century mining towns in Arizona.
Remarks: Swansea’s remote location and preserved ruins make it a fascinating destination for those interested in Arizona’s mining history. The town’s story is a classic example of the boom-and-bust cycle that characterized many settlements in the American West during the mining era. Visitors are encouraged to respect the delicate nature of the site and contribute to preserving this piece of history for future generations.
