Victor calls itself the City of Mines, and it’s obvious why. All manner of mining equipment is scattered around town. Rusting buildings and headframes, all part of old and current operations, are everywhere.
A few pieces of old equipment are preserved in this park. It’s easy to spot, just look for the headframe pictured above.
This old mining operation is on the hill above the main road.
A small park amongst the downtown buildings is a cross between a junkyard and a museum, filled with old wheels, cables, and machines used in mining.
Of all the wild west towns I visited, Victor quickly became my favorite. The town is just a few blocks long, making it easy to wander around on foot. The buildings look just like they did back at the turn of the 20th century.
Some of the streets aren’t even paved, and unfortunately, almost all of the historic storefronts sit empty.
Everywhere I turned in Victor, there was another picture to be taken. (I don’t think the undertakers are still in business.)
Here you can see the old Masonic Temple (which is still waiting to be restored) and the Baptist Church in the reflection.
Some of what you’ll find as you stroll around Victor is, well, junk. But it all adds to the character of the town.
An alleyway.
Victor’s city hall. The police station is next door, which is also home to the chamber of commerce. Stop by there to pick up some helpful pamphlets.
More scenes from around Victor.
This wall, painted with advertisements, is right next to another privately-owned park, that’s open to the public.
The Fortune Club is at the center of town.
Another empty storefront.
One business that’s still thriving is the Victor Trading Company. The store is a great place to pick up some unique souvenirs (like gold pans or a sample of fool’s gold). They also make brooms, and display hundreds of different types from around the world on their famous “Broom Wall”.
American Eagles Overlook – Cripple Creek/Victor Gold Mining Co.
Near the top of the drive, there’s a good view of the massive mining operation, that’s removed a big chunk of the mountainside.
The fog and rain was once again getting in the way.
Just above the overlook you’ll find a few ghost-buildings and an old headframe.
Note: This trip was first published in 2005.
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