Old West ghost town becomes America’s tourist attraction

For those who only know the Wild West scenes from the movies, there is a good way to live the “real life” experience.

A ghost town that has remained untouched since the days when cowboys rode horses there and stopped to stay overnight or drink whiskey.

Bodie, California (USA) is a place frozen in time, anti-modern with the same atmosphere as the traditional Old West. Located in the Bodie Hills east of the Sierra Nevada, the site became a state historic park in 1962 after years of decay and deterioration.

Podi was busy mining gold. Between the years 1860 and 1941, its mines are believed to have produced the equivalent of US$85 million (about R$422 million). Money flowed across the city and along its main road, about 1.5 km long, with various types of enterprises.

“There was a time when there were 65 bars in the city. Bars included numerous brothels and ‘houses of ill repute’, gaming rooms and opium dens. A place of entertainment for all,” says the official website.

“Every day, the miners left the factories and went to the bars and the red-light district (an expression referring to the red-light district) to spend their earnings. The combination of money, gold, and alcohol was sometimes dangerous. Townspeople reported the newspapers. To hear in the morning, “Tell us in the morning. Is there anyone for food?” Translated, “Did anyone get killed last night?”

Life at Bodi began to decline in the 1880s as miners were attracted by opportunities elsewhere in the country. Without their presence, the city changed its profile and became a family-friendly destination. The business began to fail until there was practically nothing left. The last mine closed in 1942.

Today, part of the city, about 110 structures, still stands, but visitors can walk the once-bustling streets and see houses still piled high with goods.

“Bodi is a ghost town. 50 years ago, when the last residents left, it still looks the same today. To preserve the ghost town atmosphere, Bodi has no commercial facilities like food, petrol. There is a bookstore inside the museum where you can inquire about daily tours.” says the California State Parks Department website.

“It’s a fascinating glimpse into the gold rush of 140 years ago. As you approach Bodi, the road simply disappears and you’re on a gravel/stone track,” wrote a visitor while reviewing the tourist spot.