Chloride
Chloride is Arizona's oldest continuously inhabited mining town, established around 1862-1863. Named
State: Arizona
County: Mohave County
Founded: 1862-1863
Peak Population: 5,000
Chloride is Arizona's oldest continuously inhabited mining town, established around 1862-1863. Named for the abundant silver chloride ore in the Cerbat Mountains, it once had 5,000 residents and even served as Mohave County seat. Today it's a living ghost town of 150-350 artists and retirees.
Timeline
- 1840s - First Prospectors Prospectors first located mineral resources in the Cerbat Mountains, though significant development was delayed by conflict with Native Americans.
- 1862-1863 - Town Founded Chloride was established, making it Arizona's oldest continuously inhabited mining town. The name comes from the silver chloride ore found abundantly in the area.
- 1870s - Mining Boom Following a treaty with the Hualapai Indians, mining operations expanded significantly. Chloride grew rapidly.
- Peak Years - County Seat Era At its height, Chloride boasted 5,000 residents and served as the Mohave County seat. The town featured over 75 mines, extracting silver, gold, lead, zinc, and turquoise from the Cerbat Mountains.
- 1898 - Railroad Connection The Santa Fe Railroad connected Chloride to Kingman, facilitating ore transport and bringing new residents.
- 1917 - Decline Begins Population began declining as ore deposits diminished.
- Late 1920s - Devastating Fire A major fire destroyed much of the town. Most structures were never rebuilt.
- 1944 - Virtual Ghost Town With mine closures due to low mineral prices, Chloride became a 'virtual ghost town.'
- Present - Artists' Colony Chloride has reinvented itself as a haven for artists, retirees, and those seeking small-town life. With 150-350 residents, it maintains its distinction as Arizona's oldest continuously inhabited mining town.
Plan Your Visit
Best Time: Spring or fall
Difficulty: Easy - paved road access
Time Needed: 1-2 hours
Tips
- Historic buildings and mining remnants are scattered throughout
- Local artists have established galleries and studios
- The town hosts periodic historical events
- Nearby murals by artist Roy Purcell are a popular attraction
Quick Facts
- Chloride is Arizona's oldest continuously inhabited mining town—older than Tombstone or Jerome
- The town once served as Mohave County seat before Kingman
- Over 75 mines operated in the surrounding Cerbat Mountains
- Silver chloride ore (from which the town takes its name) is a distinctive grayish mineral
- The town has attracted artists and muralists, giving it a quirky second life
Location
Address: Chloride, Mohave County, Arizona
Coordinates: 35.4142, -114.2011