Southern Idaho Ghost Towns by Wayne C. Sparling
Explore Idaho's Historic Mining Camps, Boomtowns & Forgotten Ghost Towns
Journey into Idaho's colorful mining past with Southern Idaho Ghost Towns by Wayne C. Sparling. First published by Caxton Press, this classic guide explores the abandoned mining camps, boomtowns, and frontier communities that sprang to life during Idaho's gold and silver rushes before fading into history. Written by a former U.S. Forest Service employee with a passion for Idaho history, the book profiles 84 of Southern Idaho's most fascinating ghost towns, complete with historical accounts, photographs, regional maps, and descriptions of their present-day remains.
Whether you're a metal detectorist, gold prospector, historian, or backcountry explorer, this guide offers a fascinating look at the people, places, and mining districts that helped shape Southern Idaho.
Perfect For
What You'll Discover
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Historic gold and silver mining camps
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Idaho boomtowns and abandoned settlements
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The Owyhee Mining Area
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Boise Basin mining history
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Rocky Bar and Atlanta
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Thunder Mountain and Big Creek
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Yankee Fork and Loon Creek
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Wood River mining district
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Sawtooth Valley mining history
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Lost River mining districts
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Stories of Idaho's mining pioneers and frontier communities
Features
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Written by Wayne C. Sparling
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Profiles 84 Southern Idaho ghost towns
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Historic photographs throughout
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Regional maps for each section
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Historical narratives and mining stories
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Descriptions of remaining structures and town sites
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Easy-to-follow regional organization
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Approximately 135–136 pages
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Published by Caxton Press
Benefits
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Discover Idaho's forgotten mining communities
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Learn the history behind Southern Idaho's gold and silver rushes
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Plan memorable ghost town and prospecting adventures
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Explore historic mining districts with greater appreciation
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Gain valuable historical insight before visiting old mining sites
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An outstanding reference for history lovers and outdoor explorers
Recommended Accessories
Complete your Idaho exploration library with:
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Idaho Gold & Gems: Then & Now
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Gold Panner's Guide to Idaho by Tom T.H. Bohmker
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Idaho Minerals by Lanny R. Ream
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Idaho's Historic Trails: From Lewis & Clark to Railroads
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Gold Panning the Pacific Northwest
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Fists Full of Gold by Chris Ralph
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Garrett Gold Panning Kit
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1849 Gold Pan – Made in the USA
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Handheld GPS
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Field Notebook
Specifications
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Title: Southern Idaho Ghost Towns
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Author: Wayne C. Sparling
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Publisher: Caxton Press
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Format: Paperback
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Length: Approximately 135–136 Pages
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Illustrated: Historic Photographs & Maps
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Language: English
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Subject: Idaho Ghost Towns, Mining History & Historic Mining Camps
What's Included
Why Buy From High Plains Prospectors?
At High Plains Prospectors, we know that every abandoned mining camp has a story waiting to be discovered. Southern Idaho Ghost Towns is a timeless guide that combines mining history, fascinating stories, vintage photographs, and practical regional organization to help you explore Idaho's legendary boomtowns. Whether you're researching historic gold districts, planning your next metal detecting adventure, or simply fascinated by the Old West, this classic reference is an excellent addition to any Idaho prospecting and history library.
Here is an excellent guide to eighty-four of Idaho's most interesting ghost towns -- places with names like Bayhorse, Yankee Fork and Silver City. When mineral riches were found in southern Idaho "boomtowns" arose across this rugged land. When the mining activity ceased these towns were quickly abandoned yet they still stand; a testimony to the vagaries of life in the frontier in pursuit of gold and silver. by Wayne C. Sparling.
