BONANZA AND CUSTER

On August 17th, 1876 placer deposits of gold were discovered along Yankee Fork and Jordan Creek in central Idaho.  This led to start of the General Custer Mine.  In 1878, the founders sold the mine to allow it to be developed by larger company with more financial means.  This was also the start of the developing of a "real" town.  Bonanza, as it came to be known, was established south of the mine.  At a site north of the mine, a mill was built.  A town was sprang up here.  It came to be known as Custer.  By 1880, the area had a population of about 1500.  There was a post office, stores, a newspaper (The Yankee Herald), saloons, hotels and many houses.  By 1890, the area was practically one town.  By 1903, the mines started producing less and drying out.  By 1910, the mines had played out and the area had a population of 30 to 50.

DIRECTIONS      From Idaho Falls, take Highway 20 west out of town for 66 miles to Arco.  At Arco, take Highway 93 north for 77 miles to Challis.  At Challis, inquire about specific directions to Bonanza and Custer, which are just a few miles away.

Old House at Bonanza  Courtesy of Dolores Steele

Cabin at Bonanza  Couertesy of Dolores Steele

Empire Saloon at Custer  Courtesy of Dolores Steele

return to Idaho ghost towns

Old House at Custer  Courtesy of Dolores Steele