This ghostly reflection is such an appropriate image for the town of Bodie. It was known as the most lawless, wildest and toughest mining town the west had ever known. It's been said there was a killing every day and perhaps the ghosts of Bodie are still residents today. The California town suffered the same fate as countless other western mining towns. When the precious metals dwindled, townspeople lost their source of income and quietly dispersed.
The State of California took over the ghost town, once home to 10,000 people, in 1962. Bodie is the most complete ghost town in America. Its claims were estimated at 100 millions dollars during 25 years of prosperity.
Today, the harsh winds and deadly winter temperatures, which killed the town's founder, William S. Bodey, still haunt the state park. During Bodie's winters, it can be one of the coldest places in the United States, marking record lowest temperatures for 71 days.