Oregon, a state renowned for its rich history and natural allure, harbors not only picturesque landscapes but also eerie, mysterious locations. One such place is Golden, an abandoned mining town nestled along Coyote Creek in Josephine County. Once a bustling community of gold miners and their families, Golden now stands as a haunting ghost town.
The Rise and Fall of Golden
Golden was founded in the 1840s by a group of prospectors who discovered gold in the area. The town soon attracted more settlers who built cabins, stores, a school, a church, and a post office. At its peak, Golden had about 200 residents and was one of the most prosperous towns in the region.
However, the town’s fortune did not last long. By the 1880s, the gold deposits were depleted and many miners moved on to other locations. The town gradually declined and became a ghost town by the early 1900s. The last resident of Golden died in 1920, leaving behind a collection of decaying buildings and relics.
The Ghosts of Golden
Today, Golden is a state heritage site that is open to the public. Visitors can explore the remains of the town, including the church, the school, the post office, and several cabins. Some of the original furniture, tools, and artifacts are still preserved inside the buildings, giving a glimpse of the town’s past life.
However, not all visitors are welcome in Golden. According to local legends, the town is haunted by the ghosts of its former inhabitants. Some claim to have seen apparitions of miners, children, and animals roaming the streets. Others report hearing voices, footsteps, and music coming from the empty buildings. Some even claim to have felt cold spots, touches, and pushes from unseen forces.
Whether these stories are true or not, there is no doubt that Golden is a creepy place to visit. The town’s isolation, decay, and history create a spooky atmosphere that is hard to ignore. For those who dare to venture into Golden, be prepared to encounter the ghosts of Oregon’s gold rush era.