Pearl is an abandoned former mining community in Idaho State, USA. Pearl, which was established in 1867 was abandoned by its residents after the mines were exhausted. Pearl was officially deserted in the 1900s leaving it to rot in despair.

Discovery of Pearl

Quartz bearing gold and other minor minerals like silver and zinc were discovered in the late 1870s but mining did not kick off immediately. A man by the name of Dan Levan later moved to the region with his family and upon being shown unmanned quartz which was just lying around, he began exploiting the minerals immediately. A conflict later came up when the locals wanted a share of the riches that Dan had exploited. After settling the matter in court, Dan sold the mining region to Dewey. Under Dewey’s management, the region saw advancement including the introduction of the railroad. The railroad boosted business in the region, increasing the population of the district to over 500.

Death of Pearl mines

After years of exploiting the vast region, most of the mines were depleted which led to the decline in the mining industry.  Shortly afterward several mines recorded exhaustion leading to some of them being closed down. This rendered most of the miners in the region jobless forcing them to look for employment elsewhere. By 1910, most miners had left and the town’s population reduced to less than 150 many of which were farmers. By 1921, Pearl had a population of only 45 who were all farmers. The last known resident in the town died in 1950 rendering Pearl an official ghost town,

What is the current state of the town?

Currently, walking through the old town one can barely tell if there was ever a town. The old structures have collapsed over time leaving only the remains of the concrete and wood. As you go deeper into the town, the old mines are still visible. Major structures like churches and banks are still standing but in a dilapidated state. The town is rumored to be owned by a local mining company that is still prospecting the old mines.

Can one visit Pearl Ghost town Pearl ghost town is open to the general public to visit at any given time. No organization gives a guided tour in the area so much of the tour you will have plan yourself.  Mines at the townsite are out of bound for the general public as they are deemed dangerous and unstable.