Goldfield

State: Nevada County: Esmeralda County Founded: 1902 Peak Population: 20,000-40,000

Goldfield was briefly Nevada's largest city (20,000-40,000), producing $86 million in gold. It hosted the 1906 'Fight of the Century'—a 42-round boxing match between Joe Gans and Battling Nelson. Wyatt Earp lived here in 1904. A 1923 fire from a moonshine still destroyed 53 city blocks.

Quick Facts

  • The 1906 Gans-Nelson fight went 42 rounds—longest championship bout with gloves
  • Wyatt Earp lived here in 1904
  • Moonshine still explosion destroyed 53 city blocks
  • Still the county seat despite population under 200

Location

Address: Goldfield, Esmeralda County, Nevada

Coordinates: 37.7081, -117.2356