Ghost Towns Types & Code of Ethics

The American West, a land steeped in history and lore, holds a particular fascination for those drawn to the echoes of bygone eras. Among its most intriguing attractions are the numerous ghost towns that dot the landscape, silent witnesses to dreams realized and abandoned. To wander through these dusty remnants of once-thriving communities is to embark on a journey through time, imagining the lives and struggles of those who came before. The hope remains that through dedicated preservation efforts, these historical treasures will endure, offering future generations a glimpse into the captivating past of the American West.

Defining the Ghost Town

What exactly constitutes a "ghost town"? The term generally refers to any historical town or site that bears tangible evidence of a community’s former vitality. This evidence can manifest in various forms, ranging from the complete abandonment of all businesses and municipal services to the presence of scattered rubble, decaying structures, and remnants of former buildings.

Importantly, the designation of "ghost town" is not always synonymous with complete abandonment. Some locations categorized as such may still harbor a small, albeit diminished, population. While residents may sometimes bristle at the label, historians often continue to use it if the original impetus for the town’s "boom" – be it mining, agriculture, or another industry – has vanished. Examples of such towns include Tombstone, Arizona; Cripple Creek, Colorado; and Madrid, New Mexico. These communities, while not entirely deserted, carry the unmistakable aura of a past era, their present existence a faint echo of their former glory.

In contrast, "true" ghost towns exist as skeletal remains of their former selves, often reduced to mere foundations and perhaps a weathered cemetery. Elizabethtown, New Mexico, serves as a poignant example of this type, where only whispers of its vibrant past linger amidst the ruins.

These abandoned sites offer a unique opportunity for exploration and reflection. As visitors wander through the crumbling streets and decaying buildings, they can’t help but speculate about the lives of those who once called these places home. In some instances, former commercial buildings, such as schools and churches, have been repurposed as residences, providing a tangible link between the past and the present. However, a truly deserted ghost town stands as a stark reminder of impermanence, a testament to the ebb and flow of human settlement.

The renowned ghost town author Philip Varney, whose works have captivated countless readers, offers a succinct definition of these fading communities. He describes a ghost town as "any site that has had a markedly decreased population from its peak, a town whose initial reason for settlement (such as a mine or railroad) no longer keeps people in the community." This definition encapsulates the essence of the ghost town phenomenon: a community whose fortunes have waned, leaving behind a legacy of abandonment and decay.

Varney further categorizes ghost towns types into three distinct classifications:

1. Completely deserted ghost towns: These are the quintessential ghost towns, utterly devoid of inhabitants and left to the ravages of time. Loma Parda, New Mexico, stands as a stark example of this type.

2. Towns with a minimal population: These towns retain a small number of residents, often clinging to a tenuous existence amidst the ruins of their former community. Elkhorn, Montana, embodies this category.

3. Still-thriving towns: This category may seem paradoxical, but it encompasses towns that, while still populated, have undergone a significant decline from their peak and retain the characteristics of a ghost town. Central City, Colorado, fits this description, its historic buildings and faded grandeur serving as a constant reminder of its past.

Ghost Town Code of Ethics

The allure of ghost towns types lies not only in their historical significance but also in their vulnerability. These fragile sites are susceptible to damage and degradation, making it imperative that visitors approach them with respect and responsibility. A code of ethics is essential to ensure the preservation of these invaluable historical resources for future generations. The following guidelines, adapted from Gary Speck’s "Ghost Town Ethics," provide a framework for responsible ghost town exploration.

I Will Not:

• Remove or disturb any artifacts: Every object found within a ghost town, from rusty nails to fragments of pottery, holds historical significance. Removing or disturbing these items deprives future researchers and visitors of valuable insights into the past.
• Vandalize or deface buildings or structures: Graffiti, intentional damage, and other forms of vandalism are acts of disrespect that inflict lasting harm on these fragile sites. Resist the urge to leave your mark and instead appreciate the beauty and history of the existing structures.
• Enter unsafe buildings or areas: Many ghost town structures are structurally unsound and pose a significant safety risk. Exercise caution and avoid entering buildings or areas that appear unstable.
• Dig or metal detect without permission: Digging and metal detecting can disrupt archaeological sites and damage historical artifacts. Obtain permission from the landowner or relevant authorities before engaging in these activities.
• Leave trash or litter behind: Pack out everything you pack in and dispose of waste properly. Leaving trash behind detracts from the natural beauty of the area and contributes to the degradation of the site.

I Will:

• Respect private property: Many ghost towns are located on private land. Obtain permission from the landowner before entering the property and adhere to any rules or regulations they may have in place.
• Be mindful of the environment: Ghost towns are often located in sensitive ecological areas. Stay on designated trails, avoid disturbing vegetation, and be aware of the potential for wildfires.
• Leave gates as I find them: If you encounter a gate, leave it in the same position you found it – either open or closed. This helps to maintain the integrity of fences and prevents livestock from escaping.
• Share my knowledge and experiences: Encourage others to visit ghost towns responsibly and educate them about the importance of preservation. Share your knowledge and experiences with others to foster a greater appreciation for these historical treasures.
• Support preservation efforts: Consider donating to organizations dedicated to preserving ghost towns types and historical sites. Your contributions can help to ensure that these places endure for future generations.

Terlingua, Texas: A Glimpse into Ghost Town Charm

An old church in the ghost town of Terlingua, Texas, stands as a testament to the enduring spirit of these communities. This iconic image captures the essence of the ghost town experience: a blend of decay and resilience, a reminder of the past and a symbol of hope for the future.

By adhering to a code of ethics and promoting responsible exploration, we can ensure that these ghost towns types remain vibrant reminders of the past, inspiring awe and wonder in generations to come. The ghost towns types are more than just abandoned settlements; they are living history books, waiting to be read and appreciated.