Tomboy, Colorado, San Miguel County is a ghost town that captures the imagination with its rich history nestled in the breathtaking San Juan Mountains. Once a bustling mining camp, Tomboy offers a glimpse into the past with its intriguing tales of prosperity and decline. Below is detailed information about the town.
County: San Miguel County
Zip Code: Not available
Latitude / Longitude: 37.9442° N, 107.8165° W
Elevation: Approximately 11,509 feet (3,508 meters)
Time Zone: Mountain Time Zone (MT)
Established: 1890s
Disestablished: 1920s
Comments: Tomboy was one of the highest mining camps in the United States, thriving during the Colorado Silver Boom. During its peak, the town was home to several hundred residents, primarily miners and their families.
The Tomboy Mine was one of the largest producers of gold in the region, contributing significantly to the local economy.
It is in a mountainous region, the Savage Basin, once home to many gold mines and settlements like Tomboy. The original name of this settlement was “Savage Bayon Camp,” but it eventually became more popularly known by its final moniker: Tomboy.
A stagecoach made daily trips, carrying passengers or mail for those living here while delivering supplies from Sacramento City. Cabins were available for miners to stay when they weren’t out working, claiming boundaries at nearby claims sites. Tomboy had a school building, stables, cabins for the miners, and a store.
Remains: Today, Tomboy’s remains include the remnants of old buildings, mine structures, and a few cabins. The site is accessible via a challenging off-road trail, popular with hikers and history enthusiasts. Visitors can explore the area and observe the remnants that tell the story of the town’s vibrant past.
Current Status: Tomboy is considered a ghost town with no permanent residents. It is preserved as a historical site, attracting visitors interested in Colorado’s mining history and the natural beauty of the San Juan Mountains.
Remarks: The journey to Tomboy offers stunning views and a sense of adventure, making it a favored spot for those seeking to connect with the past and experience the untamed beauty of the Rocky Mountains.
The town’s story is a tribute to the resilience and determination of those who once called it home, and it continues to inspire visitors.
