Located in Southern Arizona near the Mexico/Arizona border, Ruby is a well-preserved ghost town that offers visitors a glimpse into Arizona’s rich mining history. Once the state’s largest zinc and lead-producing mine, Ruby reached its peak in the 1930s with a population of 1200 people.
Boom to Bust⁚ The History of Ruby, Arizona
The town of Ruby was originally named Montana Camp after the first mining strike in the Montana vein in the late 1870s. Rich minerals were discovered by the Spaniards in the 1700s, but they left the area as the finds were not deemed valuable enough.
It wasn’t until mining engineers Charles Poston and Henry Ehrenberg revived the Spanish placers in 1854 that mining operations began in earnest.
Over the years, other prospectors joined in, leading to the discovery of valuable veins of gold and silver. However, mining in Ruby was limited due to frequent attacks from the Apache tribe who inhabited the area. Despite these challenges, Ruby managed to thrive and grow into a bustling mining community.
Unfortunately, as is the case with many mining towns, Ruby experienced a decline when the ore ran out in 1940. The once-thriving community slowly turned into a ghost town, joining the countless other abandoned mining towns scattered across Arizona.
What to Know About Visiting Ruby, Arizona
Today, visitors have the opportunity to explore the well-preserved remnants of Ruby. The town is privately-owned and open for tours on weekends. One of the highlights is witnessing the nightly flight of bats out of the old mine shaft. The town is surrounded by beautiful natural landscapes, offering outdoor activities such as camping and hiking.
It is important to note that there is an entrance fee of $12 per person to explore the town, and all fees go towards the non-profit Ruby Mines Restoration Project. Sneaking into the town is strongly discouraged and likely to be detected by the friendly and alert resident dog.
Ruby is located approximately 75 miles south of Tucson, accessible via Interstate 19 and Arivaca Road. Detailed information about visiting the town can be found on the official website of Ruby, including rates, directions, maps, and waivers.
Preserving History⁚ The Restoration of Ruby
Despite being a ghost town, Ruby is undergoing restoration efforts. Visitors have the opportunity to contribute to the restoration by participating in volunteer work. For each day of work, visitors receive a day of play, allowing them to explore the town and experience its rich history.
Ruby is regarded as one of the best-preserved ghost towns in Arizona. It is a testament to the state’s mining heritage and offers visitors a unique glimpse into the past. From lawlessness and mayhem to stunning photographic opportunities, Ruby is sure to leave a lasting impression on all who venture into its historic streets.
