How do you find ghost towns?
Verdict summary
Ghost towns appear on old topographic maps, in old post-office lists and in mining-district records; comparing an old map with today's map shows towns that have gone. Many are on public land, but removing artifacts from historic sites on federal land is illegal.
Mining camps, railroad towns and stage stops are the most common ghost towns. LiDAR and satellite views show their streets, foundations and dumps.
Sources: USGS historical topographic maps; USGS Geographic Names Information System.
How can I see what used to be on my land? Look at historic maps and aerial photos of the spot. In the United States, USGS historical topographic maps go back to the 1880s and show buildings, mines, roads and schools; historic aerial photos go back to the 1930s or 1940s in many places; and fire-insurance (Sanborn) maps cover towns. Old county plat maps and deeds name past owners.
How can I find old mines near me? Old mines are listed in geological survey databases such as the USGS Mineral Resources Data System, and marked on old topographic maps with crossed-pick symbols and shafts. Never enter an old mine: shafts, bad air and collapsing tunnels kill people every year.
Primary sources cited
- USGS historical topographic maps
- USGS Geographic Names Information System