taken from Owens Valley History site.
Situated near the summit of Buena Vista Peak at an elevation of 8,500 feet, the isolated mining outpost became known as Cerro Gordo, meaning “fat hill”, the meaning, of course, that it was fat with silver. The principal mines at this time were the San Lucas, San Ygnacio, San Francisco, and San Felipe. Within four years, the number of mining claims would increase to more than seven hundred…
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Your website is fantastic ! All of the improvements and signs of inhabitation are great. The first time that I visited Cerro there was no one there and we laid our sleeping bags in the “big house.” I have great memories driving up and down the “Yellow Grade Road.” After a number of ears driving up and down the “Road” Bob and I discovered the “old road” that went into Swansea. I have abundant memories of all the people that Bob and I met during the research for the book. Thank to all who are keeping Cerro alive.
After having passed by Owens lake hundreds of times since the late 60’s, and thinking I should head up the winding dirt road to Cerro Gordo ‘one of these days’ I finally made it to the old Ghost Town. The visit was absolutely fantastic. Robert, the manager and caretaker, was a great guide and full of historical information. Cerro Gordo should have been a destination on Huell Howser’s California’s Gold, even if it wasn’t a gold mine. I had a great afternoon, got some pretty nice photos, and learned a little California history. Thanks Robert!