The settlement had its start when the discovery of copper, silver, gold, and lead brought entrepreneurs who opened mines and mills in the district. The town was a diverse society including both native-born European Americans as well as other groups including individuals of French, Portuguese, Paiute, and Chinese descent who all lived and worked in the small community. During 1898-1910, the town had a train depot, several hotels, a school, businesses, newspapers, and two brothels.
The settlement's genesis was triggered by the discovery of copper, silver, gold, and lead, attracting entrepreneurs who established mines and mills within the district. The town boasted a diverse population encompassing both native-born European Americans and other groups including individuals of French, Portuguese, Paiute, and Chinese descent who resided and worked in the small community. During 1898-1910, the town had a train depot, several hotels, a school, businesses, newspapers, and two brothels.