The first settlers at the site that was to become Beowawe were Paiute Indians who had camped there for generations. Later, immigrants passed through the area on their way to California. The arrival of the Central Pacific Railroad in 1868 led to the actual formation of the town. Most of the first residents were the Chinese construction workers who were building the railroad. The name “Beowawe” is Paiute for “gate.” The town is located at the mouth of a canyon with an entrance surrounded by high mountains forming a gateway to the west.

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!