Located in Clark County, Nevada, near the confluence of the Muddy River and the Colorado River, St; Thomas is a fascinating ghost town that bears witness to the rise and fall of a once-thriving community. This article will delve into the history of St. Thomas, the reasons for its abandonment, and what remains of this intriguing place.
The Rise and Fall of St. Thomas
St. Thomas was founded in 1865 by Mormon settlers sent by Brigham Young to the area. The town quickly grew, with a population of fewer than 500 residents. It served as a vital stop along the Arrowhead Trail, a popular route between Salt Lake City, Utah, and Los Angeles, California.
For many years, St. Thomas flourished as an agricultural hub, with farms and fruit orchards dotting the landscape. The town also had a school, post office, hotel, and several stores. However, its prosperity was short-lived.
The Abandonment of St. Thomas
In the 1930s, the construction of the Hoover Dam led to the creation of Lake Mead, which began to fill with water from the Colorado River. Unfortunately, St. Thomas lay in the path of the rising waters. As the lake reached its full pool, the town was ultimately inundated under approximately 80 feet of water.
Residents of St. Thomas were forced to abandon their homes and businesses, leaving behind the remnants of their once-thriving community. The flooded town lay dormant for many years, hidden beneath the waters of Lake Mead.
Rediscovering St. Thomas
As the water levels of Lake Mead fluctuated over the years, portions of St. Thomas became visible once again. Today, visitors can explore the ghost town and gain a glimpse into its past. The remnants of old buildings, roads, and foundations offer a haunting reminder of what was lost.
To reach St; Thomas, one must travel to the Lake Mead National Recreation Area, located approximately 1.5 hours from Las Vegas. The site is accessible via designated roads and trails. While there is no entry fee to visit the ghost town, it’s important to note that some areas may require hiking or off-road driving, so it’s best to come prepared.
Preserving History
Efforts have been made to preserve and protect the historic remnants of St. Thomas. The town’s cemetery, known as the St. Thomas Memorial Cemetery, was listed on the United States National Register of Historic Places in 2005. Covering over 5 acres, it serves as a reminder of the early Mormon settlements in the area.
Visitors are encouraged to treat the ghost town with respect, refraining from removing or damaging any artifacts. This ensures that future generations can continue to appreciate the historical significance of St. Thomas.
Conclusion
St. Thomas, NV Ghost Town is a captivating destination that allows visitors to step back in time and witness the remnants of a bygone era. From its humble beginnings as a thriving Mormon settlement to its unfortunate submergence beneath the waters of Lake Mead, St. Thomas stands as a testament to the transient nature of human existence.
Whether you’re an avid history enthusiast or simply curious about the past, a visit to St. Thomas is sure to leave a lasting impression. As you wander through the abandoned streets and explore the remnants of buildings, take a moment to reflect on the resilience of those who once called this place home.