From Boom to Bust: The Tragic Story of America’s Ghost Towns

Ione, Nevada

in 1863, Ione found success as a trade and milling center when silver was discovered in the nearby Shoshone Mountain Range. By the time Nevada officially became a state in 1864, Ione’s population soared over 600 and proudly held the title of Nye County’s seat. Ione’s prosperity was short lived however, as the up-and-coming town of Belmont snatched most of its population away in just a few short years. By 1867, most of Ione’s residents had left and the county seat was relocated to Belmont.