The town of Jerome, Arizona is considered by many to be the largest ghost towns in the United States. Just like most other ghost towns, Jerome was once a thriving mining center. It was establish in 1883, primarily to house workers at the United Verde Mine, which produced over a billion dollars worth of silver and gold over the next 7 decades. In the early 1900's, Jerome was known as "the wickedest town" in the west. There are still some folks living in Jerome, but their livelihoods now come from either tourism or art. We only spent a short time there on our last trip to the Sedona area, so my photo taking was quick and dirty. Next time, I'll have a lot more time...
All of us here in the U.S. (and maybe in other places also), are familiar with these signs. This is the best one I've ever seen. I know that Psycadelic Mariachi is a band, but to me, it's just one more of the million of oddities that can be found in the desert.
"Open 24 Hours"
Really? I don't think this gas station has been open for 50 years. I don't remember seeing any other gas stations on the road to Jerome.
Jerome is also known as the most vertical town in the U.S. It runs right up the side of a mountain. EVERY masonry building is cracked and weathered (or destroyed). As you can see in the reflections, this one is in much better condition that the ones in the reflections.
I sure wouldn't be parking my vintage T-Bird in that particular spot.
Hotel Connor 2012
Hotel Connor 1899 (wikipedia)
Only the basement is left of this large building.
This is what most of the standing buildings look like. Still standing, but they are empty and have seen better days.
Lot's of old and crusty vehicles and equipment sitting around.
Just sitting around waiting for something to refuel. I'm not thinking it's going to happen anytime soon.
You just KNOW, I love this one.
I have absolutely no idea what this thing is!
This mine, or part of it was operational on a limited basis until not very long ago. I'm pretty sure this HUGE earth mover, isn't EVER going to be used again. If you look to the right rear of the photo, you can see how deep this pit mine is. Where this truck is sitting, was once part of the mountain.
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For reflections by other photographers go to Weekend Reflections sponsored by James.
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