Golden Ghost Town
Description of Golden Ghost Town
Location: Josephine County, OR Map
Found: 1840s
Golden Ghost Town is an abandoned settlement situated in Josephine County of Oregon, United States. First community of Golden in these lush forests was established as early as 1840's shortly after gold was discovered in the region. Another discovery in 1850 in the nearby Salmon River further created a boost for population growth. Some of the first settlers in the region were Chinese immigrants. However, they suffered greatly from persecutions and rascism. A hydraulic mine was built in Golden, and in 1885, a schoolhouse was built about a 0.5 mile (0.80 km) downstream from the city. A Campbellite church and general store were constructed in 1892 that served over 150 residents, and in 1896 the Golden post office constructed. In 1915, a stamp mill was built. The Golden Historic District is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
In 1920, the post office closed. The church was rebuilt in 1950. The general store, carriage house, and several homes are still standing today. The Golden Historic District is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. As of 2011, Golden has become an Oregon State Heritage Site.
