Bodie, California is a truly amazing place.
In the 1880’s this town was booming! Once gold was discovered in 1859 by Waterman S. Body, word spread and people came to settle and strike it rich. By 1879 the population had climbed from about 20 to 10,000!
The Standard Mine yielded nearly $15 million over 25 years. However, once the mine closed in 1941, residents moved on to greener pastures.
For unexplained reasons, most of the buildings remain completely furnished with the belongings of their previous residents. It is as if everyone just walked away. It is haunting, but also quite beautiful.
a peek inside of the general store, still stocked with goods!
wow!
the pool hall
Herby had a good time too! (although she has the classic Boxer “sad face”)
Bodie is now a California State Historic Park and remains untouched. Nothing may be touched or removed from the park. Even the smallest pieces of old glass and rusted tin cans remain in the dirt from generations past. All of the photos I took of interiors were taken through old window panes, as entrance to the buildings is prohibited.
an amazing discovery inside of the old bank building!
‘ the lay of the land
I highly suggest a visit to Bodie. It was such a great adventure! The natural landscape is truly breathtaking and the town itself is amazing.
I really loved the casual nature of the park as well. Once you pay to enter ($7) you’re basically on your own. There are no guides or paths. You are free to wander and explore as you wish.
Hope you all are out there enjoying the summer and having adventures of your own!
xoxo,
Tina
Vintage Lovin’ Gal
vintage lovin' gal 