Nighthawk - Washington Ghost Town

NIGHTHAWK

NAME: Nighthawk
COUNTY: Okanogan
ROADS: 2WD
GRID: 2
CLIMATE: Cool winter and summer.
BEST TIME TO VISIT: Anytime.

COMMENTS: Semi-ghost.
REMAINS: Some original buildings.

Nighthawk was not only a mining town but was also a supply center for the mines in the area. The town was built where the ground was level but most mines were across the Similkameen River. A footbridge was the only access across the river in the early days but as the town matured a ferry was put into operation. About the turn of the century, Nighthawk received a railroad line and the town had reason to look forward to a rosy future. All heavy equipment for the mines was rail shipped to Nighthawk including that for the twelve-mile distant town of Loomis. Freight lines were based there along with large livery stables, several hotels and other businesses and, of course, the usual saloons. By 1950, freight was limited to a small amount of farm equipment with a passenger or two now and then. Today, the tracks are gone but enough remains for an interesting visit. Submitted by Henry Chenoweth.

Nighthawk was not only a mining town but was also a supply center for the mines in the area. The town was built where the ground was level but most mines were across the Similkameen River. A footbridge was the only access across the river in the early days but as the town matured a ferry was put into operation. About the turn of the century, Nighthawk received a railroad line and the town had reason to look forward to a rosy future. All heavy equipment for the mines was rail shipped to Nighthawk including that for the twelve-mile distant town of Loomis. Freight lines were based there along with large livery stables, several hotels and other businesses and, of course, the usual saloons. By 1950, freight was limited to a small amount of farm equipment with a passenger or two now and then. Today, the tracks are gone but enough remains for an interesting visit. Submitted by Henry Chenoweth.

BACK