Picher
State: Oklahoma
County: Ottawa County
Founded: 1913
Peak Population: 14,000
Picher is 'America's Most Toxic Ghost Town.' Lead and zinc mining produced $20 billion in ore—and 178 million tons of toxic 'chat.' 34% of children had lead poisoning. 86% of buildings were collapsing into mines. A 2008 tornado finished it. The town was disincorporated in 2009.
Quick Facts
- Called 'America's Most Toxic Ghost Town'
- 178 million tons of toxic mine waste remain
- Tar Creek runs red from heavy metals
- Town was so undermined, 86% of buildings were collapsing
Location
Address: Ottawa County, Oklahoma
Coordinates: 36.9814, -94.8311