Located near the intersection of Interstate 80 and Nevada State Route 230 in Elko County lies the tiny Nevada living ghost town of Deeth. While now just a small blip on the map with a population of only 28, Deeth — like many Nevada ghost towns — used to be more populated and boasted a hotel, saloon, water tower, and other businesses during its heyday. The post office remains operational, serving the tiny town and outlying ranching areas. Most people are unaware that this tiny Nevada living ghost town even exists. Take a look.
You can reach the tiny ghost town of Deeth off exit 333 on Interstate 80 in Elko County.
As you can see, there's not much surrounding this small unincorporated community.
Several stories abound as to how Deeth got its name. One logical tale claims the town is named after an early settler named Deeth. Another story alleges that the area was actually called Death because settlers with inadequate water would surely meet theirs, and over the years, the name just became Deeth.
When the Central Pacific Railroad was completed in the area in 1869, the name just stuck.
In 1875, the Deeth Post Office opened along with other businesses, and the population swelled to 31 residents by 1880.
Several buildings decorate Deeth-O'Neil Road (Elko County Route 753.)
Soon thereafter, Deeth became the supply and shipping center for nearby Ruby and Starr Valleys.
A picturesque view of Deeth from Nevada State Route 230 (Starr Valley Road.)
A short while later, the J.R. Bradley Cattle Company's arrival and construction of a new hotel boosted the small town. The 4,000-square-foot Deeth Mercantile Company soon followed, as did the Deeth Creamery Company in 1912. The creamery produced more than 200 pounds of butter weekly, and Deeth's population grew to its peak of 250.
More homes in Deeth.
Beginning in 1913, however, a series of fires over the next 25 years devastated many buildings in the small community, essentially halting its growth in its tracks. Today, only a few scattered buildings remain and the population has dwindled to little more than two dozen full-time residents.
A scenic view of the Humboldt River from Deeth.
A picturesque little railroad crossing in Deeth.
Cattle drives in the area continue today as ranchers and use the surrounding land for livestock.
Whether originally named Deeth — or Death — today, this tiny Nevada living ghost town provides a glimpse into Nevada's past and illustrates how yet another small town reached its contemporary level of obscurity. Once relatively populous, Deeth now sits stuck in time.
Have you visited this tiny Nevada town? Please share your experiences and thoughts below.
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