Stuff You Missed in History Class Six Impossible Episodes: U.S. Ghost Towns
Oct 22, 2025
Explore six intriguing ghost towns across the U.S.! Discover Bodie's gold rush history and its eerie preservation. Learn about Old Cahaba's Mississippian mounds and brief stint as Alabama’s capital. Uncover the story of Iosepa, a Hawaiian settlement that adapted to challenging conditions. Delve into Pithole City’s explosive oil boom and rapid decline. Experience Jerome’s transformation from a polluted mining town to an artistic haven. Finally, hear about the ongoing challenges of Centralia’s infamous underground fire.
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Bodie Preserved In Arrested Decay
- Bodie, California, preserved as a state historic park shows buildings left in 'arrested decay' with original items still inside.
- The park documents thefts and even displayed letters from people who returned stolen items claiming curses.
Respect Historic Sites And Leave Items Alone
- Visitors to Bodie should use the park facilities on the outskirts and respect the site as a museum.
- Avoid removing artifacts because the park documents theft and preserves the town in arrested decay.
Bodie's 'Curse' Rumor And Returned Souvenirs
- Park rangers at Bodie once spread a rumor of a curse to stop souvenir thefts, and visitors sometimes mailed back stolen items with curse-claims.
- The park displays these returned items and letters as part of its museum story.
