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The Revival of Cerro Gordo: A Journey Through Time
Cerro Gordo, an old mining town of the American West, has recently caught the attention of history enthusiasts and adventure seekers alike. In a recent collaboration, Max Miller sat down with Brent Underwood, the town's owner, who is dedicated to reviving the historical essence of this ghost town through his popular YouTube channel, Ghost Town Living, and his book, Ghost Town Living. This meeting not only served as an engaging conversation about the past but also as a delightful opportunity to explore the intriguing connections between history, hospitality, and culture.
A Sip of History: The Old West Cocktail
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Before diving into discussions about the town's history, Miller prepared a traditional whiskey cocktail inspired by the saloons of the Old West. This cocktail, taken from a 1862 recipe by Jerry Thomas, includes gum syrup, bitters, whiskey, and lemon peel—all served in a vintage red wine glass reminiscent of the era. Underwood humorously noted that the drink was rather simple and tasted essentially of sweetened whiskey, reflective of the straight-forward approach favored at saloons during the mining boom. They also touched upon the curious fact that saloons often opened as early as 9 AM, catering to the long shifts of miners in the once-bustling community that reached a peak population of nearly 4,000 residents.
The Busy History of Cerro Gordo
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As they reminisced about the vibrant history of Cerro Gordo, Underwood pointed out a stark contrast between the ghost town's current tranquility and its former chaos. In its prime, Cerro Gordo was alive with miners, businesses, and saloons, with hundreds of buildings lining its streets. The pair discussed various establishments, including The Cosmopolitan hotel, Lola's Palace of Pleasure (the town's brothel), and even the old general store, Bodrie’s, where miners would pick up supplies.
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Notably, they explored the legacy of Lola Travis, an enterprising woman who owned a brothel and fiercely defended her business interests. Underwood shared a captivating story about her shooting a customer dead over a bill dispute and escaping any consequences, highlighting her influential role in a male-dominated society.
From Ownership to Restoration
Brent Underwood shared his unique journey of acquiring Cerro Gordo. Initially fascinated by the American West through his grandfather's love for Gunsmoke, he pursued a career that combined real estate and hospitality. After coming across the once-abandoned town for sale in 2018, he was captivated and motivated to preserve its history while allowing more visitors to appreciate it.
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Underwood's vision has attracted many volunteers to help restore the town, providing them a personal connection to its rebirth. Each visitor leaves a piece of their efforts behind, contributing to the historic tapestry of Cerro Gordo. In today’s increasingly digital world, Underwood stands at an interesting crossroads of using social media—specifically, his YouTube channel—to document and create a communal sense of belonging within the historical narrative.
Modern Collaborations with History
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The conversation shifted to technology, particularly how modern conveniences such as electricity and the internet play a role in maintaining historical sites today. Miller spoke about the importance of NordVPN as a tool for internet safety, emphasizing the need for security even in remote areas like Cerro Gordo. This blend of old and new has allowed the past to mingle with modern-day experiences, inviting a unique exploration of history.
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Moreover, the restoration efforts have led to exciting discoveries, such as artifacts from the town’s Chinese community, which significantly contributed to its workforce during the mining era. Explorations in the area revealed remnants of a Chinese cemetery and objects like tea tins and coins, shedding light on the rich, albeit complex, cultural tapestry of Cerro Gordo.
Unraveling Historical Misconceptions
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A poignant moment in their discussion addressed race relations and the underrepresentation of Chinese miners in historical documents. They highlighted how many details about these miners remain hidden or overlooked. Tragically, historical events such as a mining collapse in 1871 claimed the lives of thirty miners—most of whom were Chinese—and due to poor record-keeping, their identities were virtually lost to time.
Underwood and Miller emphasize that history is often told through the lens of the powerful, and that this reality calls for a deeper exploration of the diverse narratives that formed the American West. The efforts to document Lone Gunman miners and their stories bring a much-needed perspective to the romanticized narratives often portrayed in popular films and media.
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The Future of Cerro Gordo
As Cerro Gordo continues its revival, thanks to Underwood's vision and a committed community, it's evident that this ghost town is more than a relic of the past; it is a living testament to the resilience of both history and the people who cherish it. The blend of personal stories, artifacts, and community effort is reshaping how we perceive the American West. Underwood’s journey—full of ups and downs—is not just about restoring buildings but about resurrecting the stories entwined with those structures.
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In conclusion, the preservation of Cerro Gordo is a celebration of history’s vibrant complexity through warm hospitality and engaging narratives. As Brent Underwood and Max Miller concluded their enlightening discussion, it was clear that viewers of Ghost Town Living and future visitors to Cerro Gordo will experience more than just a ghost town; they will be partaking in a rich history brought back to life.
The journey of preserving Cerro Gordo continues to unfold, and with each exploration, new chapters are added to its already colorful narrative.