The town of Battle Mountain came into being in 1867 to serve as a supply center for the Battle Mountain Mining District. The town was named after an Indian battle that took place nearby in 1861. When the Central Pacific Railroad came through Lander County then still part of Humboldt County) in 1868, the camp was moved a few miles away, next to the railroad. Battle Mountain quickly became a very important railhead and a well-known dinner station. The Capitol Hotel was the choice eating establishment. The town continued to expand and businesses of all sorts opened during the early 1870s. Newspapers also began publication during the 1870s and 1880s. The subscription price of one paper was $5 per year. In 1880 Battle Mountain had become a well-established town. The town was the victim of several disasters including fires and floods. Today, Battle Mountain is the Lander County seat, having replaced Austin in 1980 after decades of competition. A trip to Battle Mountain is very enjoyable, and the historical sites are well worth some attention.

Submitted by: Shawn Hall from his book Romancing Nevada's Past: Ghost Towns And Historic Sites Of Eureka, Lander, And White Pine Counties Click here to purchase his book!