During the late 1960's and early 1970's Dave and Arvilla Mills begain hauling in historic structures, many of which were slated for destruction, to the present site. Represented in this composite town are buildings from the mining camps of Keyesville, Whiskey Flat, old Isabella, Claraville, Hot Springs, Kernvale, Miracle and Southfork. The Ghost Town was closed to the public for over 15 years. It was purchased by the Corlew family in 1990 and re-opened in 1992. Over the years it had fell in disrepair and had been "modernized", the Corlew's have logged more than 17,000 man hours of loving restoration work on the site. Many people have donated labor (special thanks to Hal Brown) and materials to the effort. It is now operated as a museum to the Kern Valley's long and colorfull history. You can go inside the original Isabella jail (gunslinger, Newt Walker was locked up here in 1905), The Apalatea/Burlando House which is believed to be the oldest standing structure in the valley houses a saloon and country store. Thousands of artifacts are on display throughout the property. Other buildings are outfitted as period miners cabins, post office and general store etc. The church, "as rustic as those in Bodie", (Jim Carnal, The Bakersfield Californian 5/16/92) is a favorite with many visitors. Helpfull posted information will take guests on a self guided tour. Silver City is open Fri., Sat. and Sunday 10 AM to 4 PM (5PM summer) and there is a small admission fee of $3.00 per person, kids 6 to 12 $2.00 ea. and kids 5 and under are Free. All proceeds are utilized for the continued restoration project. Guided tours can be arranged (slightly higher fee) and additional information can be obtained by email: gtown@lightspeed.net or ph:760-379-5146. While Silver City is perhaps not a Ghost Town in the purest sense of the word it has captured the essence and serenity of the best of them in a non-commercial museum like setting.The Corlew's are knowledgable about other historic town sites nearby and will guide Ghost Town argonauts to these remnants of the "Kern Valley Diggin's"historic past, Many believe that Silver City is haunted by spirits from that past...which brings to mind the question: Since most of the buildings were moved to the present site over a quarter of a century ago, did the ghost's move with the buildings or move in because it looked like home? Along with many other historic sites nearby vistitors may also enjoy visiting Isabella Lake and the mighty designated "Wild and Scenic" Kern River both just minutes away from Silver City. Several firms offer thrilling white water rapid excursions (do hire a pro!). Just an hour or so away visitors can view in awe the giant ancient Sequoia trees and the famous "Trail of a Hundred Giants". Hundreds of campsties are available around Isabella Lake and rooms and supplies are available in surrounding small towns. Enjoy your visit. Submitted by: J.C. Corlew , Curator/ Director Silver City Check out the Silver City Website.
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Silver City
©1998 Silver City Ghost Town

Silver City
©1998 Silver City Ghost Town

Silver City
©1998 Silver City Ghost Town