Bodie Ghost Town

Bodie never entirely lost its residents. When the mines stopped working and the school and post office closed, a few caretakers remained among the buildings. They protected what was left until the town became a California state park in 1962. Park employees and their families continue that work today. Behind the appearance of an abandoned place is a long succession of people keeping it from disappearing.

Gold discovered by W. S. Bodey in 1859 gave the mining district its name. The great rush came later, and during the boom years of 1879 to 1881 the population may have reached eight to ten thousand. Stores, lodging and entertainment followed the miners. The money made underground brought a town into being above it, with streets and households whose fortunes depended on ore continuing to pay.