Ben Safford was a prospector who located a rich silver lode in 1881 and organized the Safford Mining District. Within a few weeks, a small rush to Safford occurred and resulting in a camp of 20 persons. Soon, buildings were erected including a schoolhouse. Several businesses opened during 1882 including a saloon, a restaurant, a lodging house, and a law office. Although the post office closed in May 1883, the camp was not declining. Mining continued with a considerable amount of ore being removed. But the mines ran dry late in 1883 and Safford was soon abandoned. The district remained deserted until 1903 when the American Smelting and Refining Company opened the West Iron Mine at the mouth of Safford Canyon. During the next fifteen years, the company produced just under $2 million in iron ore. After 1918, the Safford District was abandoned for good. Not much is left in the lonely town of Safford today.

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!