Learn About Chloride, Arizona

Chloride Overview

City History

• Chloride is a historic mining town located in Mohave County, Arizona.
• The town was founded in the 1860s after silver ore was discovered in the nearby mountains.
• Chloride quickly grew into a bustling mining town, with a population of over 2,000 at its peak.
• After the mines closed in the early 1900s, Chloride became a ghost town before being revived as a tourist destination in the 1960s.

Interesting Facts

• Chloride is known for its well-preserved historic buildings, including the old jail, post office, and general store.
• The town's name comes from the silver chloride deposits found in the area.
• Chloride is home to the oldest continually operating post office in Arizona.

Interesting People

• One of Chloride's most famous residents was Roy Purcell, a renowned artist known for his murals depicting the town's history.
• Another notable figure from Chloride is Jim Hurd, a local historian who has written several books on the town's history.

Top Attractions in Chloride

• Chloride's historic downtown area, with its well-preserved buildings and antique shops, is a popular attraction for visitors.
• The Chloride Historical Society Museum offers a glimpse into the town's mining past through exhibits and artifacts.
• The nearby Cerbat Mountains provide opportunities for hiking, rock climbing, and exploring old mining sites.

Top Attractions Nearby

• The Grand Canyon Skywalk, located about 2 hours away, offers stunning views of the Grand Canyon from a glass-bottomed bridge.
• Hoover Dam, located about 2 hours away, is a marvel of engineering and a popular tourist destination.
• Lake Mead, located about 1.5 hours away, offers boating, fishing, and other water activities.

Population History

• Chloride's population peaked at over 2,000 in the late 1800s but declined after the mines closed.
• Today, Chloride is home to around 250 residents.

Geography

• Chloride is located in the foothills of the Cerbat Mountains, about 20 miles northwest of Kingman, Arizona.
• The town is surrounded by desert landscape, with rocky outcroppings and rugged terrain.

Economy

• Tourism is the main driver of Chloride's economy, with visitors coming to explore the town's history and outdoor activities.
• Small businesses, such as antique shops and restaurants, cater to tourists and locals alike.

Culture

• Chloride has a rich mining history that is reflected in its historic buildings and museums.
• The town hosts annual events, such as the Chloride Western Days festival, which celebrates the town's cowboy heritage.

Notable Landmarks

• The Chloride Post Office, established in 1871, is the oldest continually operating post office in Arizona.
• The Chloride Historical Society Museum showcases the town's mining history through exhibits and artifacts.
• The old jail, built in the late 1800s, offers a glimpse into Chloride's Wild West past.

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