Golden
State: Oregon
County: Josephine County
Founded: 1840s
Peak Population: 150+
Golden is unique: a gold mining town with NO saloons—founder William Ruble was a teetotaler. Thirsty miners walked to nearby Placer. The 1892 church, schoolhouse, and general store are preserved. Fake wooden headstones near the church are props from TV's 'Gunsmoke.'
Quick Facts
- Only mining town in Oregon with no saloons—founder was teetotaler
- Miners had to walk to Placer for a drink
- Fake 'Gunsmoke' TV prop headstones confuse visitors
- On both National Register and Oregon State Heritage Site list
Location
Address: Golden, Josephine County, Oregon
Coordinates: 42.5439, -123.4653