Coal Mine Mesa, Arizona facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Coal Mine Mesa, Arizona
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Ghost town
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Country | United States |
State | Arizona |
County | Coconino |
Elevation | 6,145 ft (1,873 m) |
Time zone | UTC-7 (Mountain (MST)) |
• Summer (DST) | UTC-7 (MST) |
Area code(s) | 928 |
FIPS code | 04-14520 |
GNIS feature ID | 3051 |
Coal Mine Mesa is a fascinating place in Coconino County, Arizona. It's known as a ghost town, which means it was once a busy community but now has very few, if any, residents. This area sits high up, about 6,145 feet (or 1,873 meters) above sea level.
What is a Ghost Town?
A ghost town is a place that people have mostly left. It used to be a lively town, but for some reason, most of its residents moved away. This leaves behind empty buildings and a quiet atmosphere.
Why Do Towns Become Ghost Towns?
Towns often become ghost towns for several reasons. Many of them grew because of a specific industry, like mining or logging. When the mines ran out of resources, or the logging industry moved on, people lost their jobs. Without work, families had to move to other places to find new opportunities.
Sometimes, a town might become a ghost town because of natural disasters. Floods, droughts, or fires can make a place unlivable. Changes in transportation can also play a role. If a new highway is built that bypasses a town, businesses might suffer, leading people to leave.
Exploring Ghost Towns in Arizona
Arizona has many ghost towns, especially in areas where mining was once popular. These towns offer a glimpse into the past. They show us how people lived and worked many years ago. Visiting a ghost town can feel like stepping back in time. It's a chance to imagine what life was like when these places were thriving.