Abandoned Buildings Archives

An Introduction to Bodie, California

Bodie, California is a ghost town located in Mono County, east of the Sierra Nevada mountain range. It was founded in the 1850s during the California Gold Rush and was once a thriving gold-mining town with a population of around 10,000.

However, as gold mining became less profitable in the early 20th century, Bodie’s population began to decline and the town was eventually abandoned. Today Bodie is a ghost town; an abandoned village, town, or city, usually one that contains substantial visible remaining buildings and infrastructure such as roads.

Ghosts of the Gold Rush

In 1861, the Bunker Hill Mine in Bodie, California was established and a mill was built, but the town remained small with only about 20 miners. However, in 1877 the Standard Mining Company, which had purchased the Bunker Hill Mine and Mill, discovered a large vein of gold ore, leading to a population boom in Bodie.

Life during the gold rush of the 1870s was filled with both excitement and challenges. The gold rush was a period of rapid expansion and development in the western United States, as people flocked to the region in search of gold and other valuable minerals. Many of these people were drawn to the California Gold Rush, which began in 1848 and continued well into the 1870s.

By 1879, the town of Bodie, California had a population of around 10,000 and over 2,000 buildings, including 30 gold mines, 65 saloons, several brothels, gambling halls, opium dens, as well as legitimate businesses such as churches, banks, and a school. During this time, Bodie gained a reputation for violence and lawlessness.

Towns and cities sprang up almost overnight, as people rushed to stake their claim on the land and its resources. These towns were often rough and lawless, with little in the way of infrastructure or social services. Housing was scarce and expensive, and many people lived in tents or makeshift shelters.

The work of gold mining was grueling and dangerous, with miners facing long hours, low pay, and the constant threat of accidents or injury. Many miners were also exposed to toxic chemicals and substances, which could have serious health consequences. Despite these challenges, the promise of wealth and a better life drove many people to take on the risks of gold mining.

In addition to the challenges of gold mining, life in the 1870s was also marked by social and cultural tensions. The gold rush brought people from a wide variety of backgrounds and cultures together, and these differences often led to conflict and tension. The influx of immigrants, particularly Chinese immigrants, also contributed to tensions, as many white Americans saw them as a threat to their livelihoods and way of life.

Despite these challenges, the gold rush also brought new opportunities and a sense of adventure to the western United States. For many people, the promise of a better life and the thrill of the hunt for gold was worth the risks and sacrifices they had to make.

Bodie

Bodie, the Spiritual Melting Pot

Bodie, California, like many other towns during the gold rush of the 1870s, was a melting pot of different cultures, beliefs, and traditions. Located in the western United States, Bodie attracted people from all over the world who were drawn to the promise of wealth and opportunity. As a result, the town was home to a diverse population of miners, businessmen, and other workers who brought with them a wide range of spiritual beliefs and practices.

One group of workers who had a significant impact on the spiritual landscape of Bodie were the Chinese immigrants who came to work on the Bodie & Benton Railroad. Many of these workers were Buddhists, and they brought with them the teachings and practices of their religion. Buddhism, with its emphasis on mindfulness, compassion, and the cycle of reincarnation, was a significant contrast to the predominant Western religions of Catholicism and Protestantism that were practiced in Bodie.

The presence of these different spiritual traditions in such a small town led to a unique mixture of beliefs and practices. Some people may have been drawn to the teachings of Buddhism, while others may have embraced a more syncretic approach that combined elements of both Eastern and Western spiritualities. The mixture of spiritual beliefs in Bodie may have also led to the development of new beliefs and practices that arose from the fusion of different traditions.

One example of this blending of beliefs is the legend of the curse of Bodie. According to this legend, any visitor who takes anything from the town, even a small rock, will be cursed with bad luck and health problems upon leaving.

This legend is thought to have originated as a way to protect the town’s historical artifacts, but it has persisted and is still believed by many visitors today. It is possible that the legend of the curse was influenced by the spiritual beliefs of the Chinese immigrants, who may have brought with them the concept of karma, or the idea that one’s actions have consequences in this life or in future lives.

The Decline of Bodie

As Bodie’s population declined, so did the town’s prosperity. By the early 20th century, gold mining in the area had become less profitable, and many residents began to leave in search of new opportunities. Despite this, Bodie remained a functioning town until the 1930s, when the last mine closed and the last residents left.

After being abandoned for decades, Bodie was eventually restored and turned into a State Historic Park. Visitors can tour the town and see the preserved buildings, including homes, shops, and even a schoolhouse. Many of the buildings still contain original furnishings and items, giving visitors a glimpse into what life was like in a gold-mining town during the late 19th century.

Despite its history as a lawless and often violent place, Bodie has also gained a reputation for supernatural activity. There have been numerous reports of ghost sightings, as well as unexplained noises and music coming from shuttered bars and other buildings. Some visitors have even claimed to feel a presence or sense of unease while exploring the town.

In addition to its supernatural reputation, Bodie is also known for the legend that any visitor who takes anything from the town, even a small rock, will be cursed with bad luck and health problems upon leaving. This legend is thought to have originated as a way to protect the town’s historical artifacts, but it has persisted and is still believed by many visitors today.

The legend of the curse on those who loot from Bodie, California is similar to tales from ancient Egypt, where explorers who entered sacred tombs were believed to be cursed. Both legends involve a belief in a supernatural or spiritual force that can punish those who violate cultural or societal norms.

In Bodie, it is said that taking rocks from the ghost town brings bad luck or other forms of punishment, possibly because it is seen as disrespectful to the town’s history and the memory of its former residents.

In ancient Egypt, it was believed that Pharaohs were protected by their gods and that those who disturbed their tombs or remains would be punished with curses or divine retribution.

Both legends also involve the idea that these curses or punishments are tied to the concept of karma, or the idea that one’s actions have consequences that can affect one’s present or future.

In Bodie, it is thought that taking rocks is a selfish or irresponsible act that goes against the principles of respecting the past and preserving history, and that it will have negative consequences in the future.

In ancient Egypt, the belief in curses for trespassing in Pharaoh’s tombs may have been tied to the idea that Pharaohs were to be treated with care and reverence, and that those who violated this principle would face negative consequences as a result.

Overall, the idea of curses or supernatural punishment for violating cultural or societal norms or traditions is a common theme in many different cultures and histories, and the supposed curses in Bodie and Pharaoh’s tombs are just two examples of this concept.

Bodie, California Today

Today, Bodie is a State Historic Park, with some parts of the town preserved in a state of “arrested decay.” Visitors can tour the town and see the preserved buildings, including homes, shops, and even a schoolhouse. Many of the buildings still contain original furnishings and items, giving visitors a glimpse into what life was like in a gold-mining town during the late 19th century.

In addition to its supernatural reputation, Bodie, California is also known for the legend that any visitor who takes anything from the town, even a small rock, will be cursed with bad luck and health problems upon leaving. This legend is thought to have originated as a way to protect the town’s historical artifacts, but it has persisted and is still believed by many visitors today.

Despite its somewhat eerie reputation, Bodie is a popular tourist destination and an important part of California’s history. It is a testament to the harsh realities of life in a gold-mining town during the late 19th century, and a reminder of the sacrifices and struggles of those who lived and worked there. So, it is a must visit place for history buffs and anyone interested in the Wild West.

December 30, 2022January 1, 2023

Anthony

Agua Fria, California – Historic Ghost Town

Introduction

Have you ever heard of Agua Fria, California? Nestled in the heart of the Central Valley, this small town has a rich history that dates back to the California Gold Rush. But beyond its historical significance, Agua Fria is rumored to be haunted by the spirits of its past residents. In this article, we’ll explore the evidence for and against the ghostly claims surrounding the ghost town and try to determine once and for all whether or not this little town is truly haunted.

Agua Fria

History of Agua Fria

**Agua Fria Valley** – **Courtesy Chris Geigle**

Agua Fria was originally divided into Lower Agua Fria and Upper Agua Fria, and it was here that John C. Fremont’s men discovered gold in 1849 on his Rancho Las Mariposas. In 1850, the town became a booming trade center and the final destination for many new arrivals in California. It was Mariposa County’s first Seat of Justice from February 18, 1850, to November 10, 1851, and a post office was established in October of that year.

John C. Frémont | John Charles Frémont or Fremont

In 1853, a 6-stamp quartz mill was established in Upper Agua Fria, and the town boasted a variety of amenities, including a hotel, express office, assayers, billiard room, bowling alley, and several stores.

However, the population of the town started to decline by the mid-19th century, and the town suffered destructive fires and was never rebuilt.

John Charles “Charlie” Fremont eventually moved the Mariposa County seat to Mariposa in 1854.

Present-day Agua Fria

Today, Agua Fria is a ghost town with little to see but grassy meadows. It is accessible via Agua Fria Road and is private property, but it is a California Historical Landmark (#518). Despite its current state, the ghost town remains an important part of California’s history and is a reminder of the impact of the California Gold Rush on the state.

One of the most significant impacts of the gold rush was the influx of people to California. As news of the gold discovery spread, people from all over the world flocked to the state in search of wealth and opportunity. This rapid population growth led to the development of new towns and cities, as well as the expansion of existing ones.

The gold rush also had a major impact on California’s economy. The gold industry brought in a significant amount of money and created jobs for those involved in mining, transportation, and other related industries. The gold rush also led to the development of other industries, such as agriculture and manufacturing, as the state’s population and economy grew.

Ghostly claims surrounding Agua Fria

Agua Fria, California is a small town located in the heart of the Mojave Desert, just outside of Palm Springs. It is known for its hot, dry climate and its stunning desert landscape, which attracts outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers from all over the region.

Agua Fria in 1874. Courtesy of Western Mining History.

Despite its natural beauty, Agua Fria is also known for its ghostly claims and strange occurrences. According to local legend, the town is haunted by the ghost of a young woman who was killed in a tragic car accident. Some people claim to have seen her ghost walking along the deserted roads at night, while others have reported hearing strange noises or feeling a presence in their homes.

One of the most well-known ghostly claims surrounding town is that of the “Ghost Train.” According to this legend, a ghostly train can be heard approaching the town at night, its whistle blowing and wheels clacking on the tracks. Some people believe that the train is the spirit of a passenger train that derailed in the area many years ago, killing all aboard. Others think that the train is a metaphor for the town’s troubled past, symbolizing the struggles and hardships that its residents have faced over the years.

In addition to these ghostly stories, there have also been reports of strange noises and unexplained phenomena in the Agua Fria area. Some people have claimed to hear strange noises or music coming from the wilderness, while others have reported seeing strange shadows or figures moving among the trees.

Despite these strange occurrences, the town remains a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers. Many people are drawn to its rugged beauty and unique desert landscape, and it is not uncommon for visitors to experience a sense of peace and tranquility while exploring the area.

While some people may be skeptical of the ghostly claims surrounding Agua Fria, there is no denying that the town has a rich and mysterious history. Whether you believe in ghosts or not, the ghost town is definitely worth a visit for anyone who is interested in the natural beauty and unique history of the Mojave Desert.

In Conclusion

After exploring the evidence for and against the ghostly claims surrounding Agua Fria, California, it’s clear that this small town has a rich and fascinating history. From its origins as a mining camp during the California Gold Rush to its present-day status as a ghost town, the landmark has certainly seen its fair share of ups and downs.

But what about the rumors that the town is haunted by the spirits of its past residents? While there have been reports of paranormal activity in Agua Fria, it’s important to remember that ghost stories are often based on legend and folklore rather than concrete evidence. Without hard evidence to support these claims, it’s difficult to say definitively whether or not the ghost town is truly haunted.

That being said, it’s always possible that the town could hold some hidden secrets and mysteries. The town may not be the most well-known ghost town in California, but it certainly has its own unique charm and history that make it worth exploring. Whether you’re a history buff, a paranormal enthusiast, or just looking for a unique destination, Agua Fria is definitely worth a visit.

November 28, 2017January 16, 2023

Andrew Arnett

Inside The Haunted ‘Ghost Towers’ Of Ho Chi Minh City

Ho Chi Minh City (formerly Saigon) is a centuries old city located in southern Vietnam. Its storied, war torn past and huge population density guarantees it to be a ghost filled wonderland. Explore the ghost towers with BKPS.

Since we are currently touring this region, we thought it apropos to visit the famously haunted Thuan Kieu Plaza ‘ghost towers’ located in District 5. Thuan Kieu Plaza is a $55 million apartment and shopping mall complex developed in 1998 by Hong Kong-owned Kings Harmony International Limited and Saigon Real Estate Corporation.

The 100,000-square meter ghost towers features three 33-story towers containing 650 apartments, a three story mall, and is located on Hong Bang Street in the economically prime downtown area. At the time, it was the tallest residential building in the city and was expected to make a mint for its investors. So what could go wrong?

Apparently, a number of things could, and did go wrong for Thuan Kieu Plaza, turning it from an upscale apartment complex into an abandoned edifice riddled with malevolent spirits and bad juju. Locals have reported hearing strange noises coming from inside the building at night, crying from the mall elevators, and encounters with creepy people. A mysterious fire occurred during construction, and legend states that financial shortcuts by management, resulting in fatal accidents, led to workers placing a curse on the building.

Another two fires, in 2004 and 2009, occurred in restaurants inside the mall. Also, a man shot his girlfriend, then killed himself, in one of these restaurants – their ghosts allegedly could be heard still wandering and groaning in the building. Others report seeing a Chinese woman, wearing a cheongsam, moving through the building without touching the ground.

Owners claim to suffer from dreams of fires and ghosts taunting them throughout the night. Some of them have, apparently, become stressed and sickened for days by these encounters. Some locals claim that the buildings themselves collect and keep the ghosts in this part of town. How did such a thing come to be?

Thuan Kieu Plaza (Image via Andrew Arnett)

Approaching the plaza by taxi, one can see its three green ghost towers from blocks away, looming over the older and smaller buildings of Cholon, the mostly Chinese section of Ho Chi Minh City. Right from the start, the towers give off an eerie vibe, their presence certainly imposing. In a way, the structure gives the impression of a large ship. And this, according to some, is one of its problems.

People claim that Thuan Kieu Plaza suffers from an egregious case of bad fengshui. Fengshui is, of course, a Chinese philosophical system for harmonizing architecture with the ‘invisible forces’ of the surrounding environment. Apparently, the architects did reference a grand sailing ship in the design, but its three oversized “masts” made it prone to sinking. In addition, a street bisects the middle of the complex, symbolically sending a torpedo into its hull.

The plaza’s fengshui problems don’t stop there. The three ghost towers, when viewed from a distance, resemble three large incense sticks. In Vietnam, incense is burned only for the dead and, it is feared, these towers act as a beacon to call, and trap, all the spirits in the surrounding area.

As a result of all this negativity, the project, which promised to make investors bank, fell on hard times. Sure, it started off well. According to local real estate agent A Ly, when the building opened in 1998, many bought apartments and rented shops there. At US$40,000 average per apartment, and VND160,000-200,000 to lease a store, Thuan Kieu Plaza was a good deal.

But soon after, according to Ly, owners began to resell or rented out apartments, complaining of a “stuffy” and “dark” atmosphere” inside the building. By 2006, no one was buying into the complex. By 2009, all the stores in the mall were empty, and two of the three towers were abandoned. The third tower contained at best a dozen inhabitants.

Side entrance to Thuan Kieu Plaza Ghost Towers (Image via Thanh Nien News)

Perhaps, though, Thuan Kieu Plaza’s problems stem less from magical causes and, have more to do with bad economic foresight. Speaking with Tuoi Tre News, architect Luu Trong Hai, one of the original consultants for the project, said the building was built and designed to capture investment by immigrants from Hong Kong who were then expected to flee HK in droves, as a result of the British handover of Hong Kong to China in 1997. But the immigrants never came over.

The building, now ghost towers, was designed smaller than average, at 2.7 meters high, a compact size Hong Kongers are accustomed to. That, and its location in the Chinese hub of Cholon, was the strategy investors hoped would pay off big, but they miss-calculated. To make matters worst, the apartments were overpriced for their target market. Thuan Kieu Plaza was a bust every way you looked at it.

Arriving at Thuan Kieu Plaza, I was expecting an abandoned burnt out cinder block but what I encountered was something totally different. The complex today is a thriving, active oasis – most of the shops in the three story mall were open, people were everywhere, and many of the apartments have been renovated and resold to new occupants. And, there were no ghosts to be found anywhere.

It turns out that, after twenty years of neglect, Thuan Kieu Plaza has just recently been bought out by new owners, renovated and reopened. The new owners are An Dong Corp and they have big plans for the future of the complex. Certainly, the plaza was lively and bustling with restaurants and shops. The few people I spoke to had no recall of ghost stories attached to the place. One security guard, however, did explain to me that the new owners had priests come in to dispel the hex that was earlier placed on the property. Let’s hope for everyone’s sake, that magic holds.

Story by Andrew Arnett

Editor’s note: If you enjoyed this article by co-founder Andrew Arnett check out Pros and Cons of Drunken Ghost Hunting, or AI: Towers of Babel.

Tag: Abandoned Buildings

Bodie, California – A Ghastly Ghost Town