Nelson Ghost Town is the remnants of Techatticup Mine. Established in 1861, it was the oldest, richest and most famous gold mine in Southern Nevada. Although discovered in the 1700’s by Spanish explorers, mining did not start until 100 years later.
HISTORY
Nelson and the encompassing Eldorado Canyon became a hotbed of unruly, lawless individuals. Prospectors, miners and deserters of the Civil War flooded the area searching for freedom and gold.
Disputes over mining claims and ownership of Techatticup mine lead to frequent occurrences of violence and murder. The reputation of the area was so bad, law enforcement rarely made an appearance in Nelson.
In spite of the mayhem, the mines produced an estimated 10 million dollars worth of ore between 1864 -1900. After the boom, mining ended in the 1940s and Techatticup Mine was abandoned.
THE COMEBACK
In 1994 Tony and Bobbie Werly purchased the neglected property. The family restored the buildings, introduced classic automobiles and opened the Techatticup Mine for public tours.
NELSON GHOST TOWN: PRESENT DAY
Today, the ghost town is a small tourist destination 45 minutes south of Las Vegas. A photographer’s dream, it has been used as the backdrop for wedding photography, commercial print ads and portfolios. It has also been featured in numerous music videos, video games, and movies.
For more information regarding Nelson Ghost Town, please visit: http://www.eldoradocanyonminetours.com/index.html