Why are many drawn to old mining towns? Likely for a mix of reasons, including historic and cultural ones. And because these places make visitors feel as though they’ve entered a time capsule.

Mining towns often sprang up overnight across the U.S. during the gold, silver and copper rushes, creating dramatic tales of fortune, greed, sudden ruin, sickness and even death. Mining stories reflect extremes — the tales of rags to riches and back, time and again. Miners came by the droves when precious metals were discovered, only to leave towns abandoned after the mines closed, moving on to other prospects.

Those who chose this type of life often were daring pioneers, outlaws or immigrants looking for a better life. Their resilience, hardships and rugged lifestyles make for compelling human sto

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