St. Thomas
The Town That Comes and Goes
State: Nevada
County: Clark County
Founded: 1865
Abandoned: 1938
Peak Population: 500
St. Thomas was a prosperous Mormon farming community until Hoover Dam was completed. In 1938, Lake Mead submerged the town. During severe droughts, the town re-emerges from the lake like a ghost from the deep.
Mormon Settlement
Mormon pioneers founded St. Thomas at the confluence of the Muddy and Virgin Rivers. They farmed the desert successfully for 73 years.
Submersion and Re-emergence
Lake Mead covered St. Thomas in 1938. During droughts in the 2000s and 2020s, the town has re-emerged, revealing foundations, streets, and even old appliances.
Timeline
- 1865 - Founded Mormon settlers arrived
- 1938 - Submerged Lake Mead covered town
- 2002 - Re-emerged Drought exposed ruins
- 2022 - Visible Again Mega-drought exposes more
Plan Your Visit
Best Time: During drought conditions
Difficulty: Moderate - hiking in desert heat
Time Needed: 2 hours
Quick Facts
- Re-emerges during droughts
- Last resident stayed until water entered his home
- Part of Lake Mead NRA
Location
Address: Lake Mead National Recreation Area
Coordinates: 36.4281, -114.3619