In 1895 gold was discovered in Kern County. The town of Randsburg grew rapidly, eventually reaching a population of 4000.
randsb1 (© by Daniel Ter-Nedden) Buy pictures
The mines in the area produced a about $60 million in gold.
randsb2 (© by Daniel Ter-Nedden) Buy pictures
Late in 1897, a large fire broke out, but it was extinguished before too much damage was done. Just a few weeks later, another fire started, destroying nearly half of the town. A third conflagration several months later destroyed what was left of Randsburg. The town rebuilt to some extent, but it never came close to the heights it attained before the fires.
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A few people still live in Randsburg and a number of old buildings remain, including a museum.
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Hairdresser
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The Consolidated Mine
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randsburg1 (© by Daniel Ter-Nedden) Buy pictures
On the highway to Randsburg
randsburg2 (© by Daniel Ter-Nedden) Buy pictures

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