Characters of Early Death Valley
Death Valley, a land of extremes, evokes images of scorching heat, desolate landscapes, and unforgiving terrain. Yet, beneath the harsh exterior lies a rich history populated by determined individuals who sought fortune, adventure, and a new life in this challenging environment. These Characters of Early Death Valley shaped the region’s identity, leaving behind a legacy of perseverance, innovation, and often, eccentric behavior. From prospectors and miners to businessmen and con men, the stories of these individuals offer a glimpse into the wild and unpredictable world of the American West.
The lure of precious metals and minerals, particularly borax, drew many to Death Valley in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. These pioneers faced immense hardships, battling the elements, isolation, and the constant threat of financial ruin. The success stories, though few and far between, became legendary, fueling the dreams of countless others who hoped to strike it rich. The Characters of Early Death Valley were a diverse group, hailing from various backgrounds and driven by a common desire for a better future.
One cannot speak of Death Valley without acknowledging the iconic 20-mule teams that hauled borax across the desert. These impressive teams, driven by skilled "muleskinners," became a symbol of the region’s industry and resilience. The drivers, proud of their expertise, navigated the treacherous terrain with precision, ensuring the valuable mineral reached the railheads for transport. The quote, "I’m a muleskinner, proud to be one, and good at my job. I don’t skin mules—I drive ’em, that’s what muleskinner means. Right here haulin’ borax outta Death Valley. Ain’t no other place I want to be, no other job I want to be doin’," encapsulates the spirit of these hardworking individuals who were integral to the Characters of Early Death Valley.
Let’s explore some of the prominent figures who left their mark on Death Valley:
Pete Aguereberry (1874-1945): A French immigrant, Aguereberry ventured into Death Valley and, in partnership with Shorty Harris, established the town of Harrisburg and the Eureka Mine. His story exemplifies the international allure of the American West and the entrepreneurial spirit that drove many to seek their fortune in the region. Harrisburg, though now a ghost town, stands as a testament to Aguereberry’s ambition and the fleeting nature of mining booms.
Montillus Murray "Old Man" Beatty (??-1908): As the namesake of Beatty, Nevada, Beatty established a ranch in the Oasis Valley in 1896. His ranch provided a vital source of supplies and respite for travelers and miners in the harsh desert environment. Beatty’s contribution highlights the importance of agriculture and settlement in supporting the mining industry and fostering communities in remote areas.
William F. "Alkali Bill" Brong: During Death Valley’s mining boom, Alkali Bill provided a unique transportation service, using a steam-powered auto tour car to ferry passengers from the railheads to the mining communities. This innovative approach to transportation showcases the ingenuity and adaptability of individuals who sought to capitalize on the growing demand for services in the region.
Patrick "Patsy" Clark (1852-1915): An Irish immigrant, Clark amassed a fortune through mining and invested in mines throughout the American West. His success story underscores the opportunities available to immigrants in the burgeoning mining industry and the potential for wealth creation in the vast and untapped resources of the West.
William Tell Coleman (1824-1893): A multifaceted figure, Coleman was a shipping magnate, merchandiser, leader of the San Francisco Vigilance Committees, attorney, politician, and the owner of the Harmony Borax Works in Death Valley. He pioneered the use of the famous Twenty-mule teams to transport borax from 1883 to 1889. Coleman’s diverse achievements illustrate the dynamic nature of the American West and the ability of individuals to excel in multiple fields. The Harmony Borax Works, now a historic site, stands as a reminder of Coleman’s significant contribution to Death Valley’s industrial development.
Ernest L. "Ed" Cross: Along with Shorty Harris, Cross discovered the famous Bullfrog Mining District. His partnership with Harris, a colorful and experienced prospector, highlights the importance of collaboration and local knowledge in successful mining ventures.
James R. Davis: Davis was a Nevada mining man involved in the infamous Gold Bar Swindle in the Bullfrog Mining District. His story serves as a cautionary tale, illustrating the potential for fraud and deception in the unregulated and often chaotic world of mining speculation.
James Dayton (18??-1898): A long-time caretaker of the Furnace Creek Ranch, Dayton worked as a prospector with Shorty Harris and as a swamper for the 20 Mule Team wagons. His diverse experiences reflect the varied roles individuals played in supporting the mining industry and the challenges of making a living in Death Valley.
Frank "Shorty" Harris (1856-1934): Perhaps the most well-known and colorful prospector of Death Valley, Shorty Harris discovered ore in the Bullfrog District and at Harrisburg. His name became synonymous with the region’s mining history, and his legendary prospecting skills and larger-than-life personality cemented his place as a true Character of Early Death Valley.
Albert Mussey Johnson (1872-1948): An eccentric millionaire, Johnson served as President of the National Life Insurance Company and financed the construction of Scotty’s Castle in Death Valley. His relationship with Death Valley Scotty, a notorious con man, highlights the allure of the Wild West and the willingness of wealthy individuals to invest in unconventional ventures.
Arthur Kunze: The founder of the original Greenwater townsite, Kunze, was primarily interested in copper mining. His focus on copper reflects the diverse mineral resources of Death Valley and the varying fortunes of different mining ventures.
J.P. Loftus (1856-??): Another figure involved in the Gold Bar Swindle in the Bullfrog Mining District, Loftus’s story further emphasizes the prevalence of fraud and the risks associated with investing in speculative mining ventures.
Andrew Jackson "Jack" Longstreet (1834-1928): Hailing from Tennessee, Longstreet became known as the "Last of the Desert Frontiersmen." His enduring presence in Death Valley symbolized the spirit of self-reliance and the ability to adapt to the harsh conditions of the desert environment.
Ernest Alexander "Bob" Montgomery (1863-1955): A self-made capitalist and mine operator, Montgomery made significant discoveries at Johnnie and Bullfrog, Nevada. His success story exemplifies the potential for upward mobility in the mining industry and the rewards that could be reaped through hard work and strategic investment.
Pacific Coast Borax Company (1890-1956): Founded by Francis "Borax" Marion Smith, the Pacific Coast Borax Company dominated the borax mining industry in Death Valley. The company’s success transformed the region’s economy and solidified borax as a valuable commodity.
Charles M. Schwab (1862-1939): A steel magnate, Schwab invested heavily in Death Valley mining ventures but ultimately lost his fortune due to the stock market crash of 1929. His story serves as a reminder that even the wealthiest individuals are not immune to economic downturns and the risks associated with speculative investments.
Walter Edward Perry Scott, aka "Death Valley Scotty" (1872 – 1954): A prospector, performer, and con man, Scotty became famous for his scams and the iconic mansion in Death Valley, known as Scotty’s Castle. His flamboyant personality and elaborate schemes captivated the public imagination and solidified his status as a legendary Character of Early Death Valley.
Francis "Borax" Marion Smith (1846-1931): Known as "Borax Smith" and "The Borax King," Smith owned the Pacific Coast Borax Company and aggressively promoted the 20-Mule-Team Borax brand. His entrepreneurial vision and marketing prowess transformed the borax industry and made him a prominent figure in Death Valley’s history.
Christian "Chris" Brevoort Zabriskie (1864-1936): A businessman and former vice president of the Pacific Coast Borax Company, Zabriskie had Zabriskie Point in the Funeral Mountains named after him. His association with the borax industry and the prominent landmark bearing his name cemented his place in Death Valley’s geography and history.
The Characters of Early Death Valley represent a diverse tapestry of individuals who shaped the region’s history. Their stories, filled with ambition, perseverance, and often, a touch of eccentricity, continue to fascinate and inspire. From the hardworking muleskinners to the shrewd businessmen and the flamboyant con men, these figures left an indelible mark on the landscape and the collective memory of Death Valley.