Franconia, Arizona facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Franconia, Arizona
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 Franconia, Arizona
Location in Arizona
Franconia, Arizona
Location in the United States
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| Country | United States |
| State | Arizona |
| County | Mohave |
| Elevation | 1,102 ft (336 m) |
| Time zone | UTC-7 (Mountain (MST)) |
| • Summer (DST) | UTC-7 (MST) |
| Area code(s) | 928 |
| FIPS code | 04-25580 |
| GNIS feature ID | 24424 |
Franconia is a place in Mohave County, Arizona, United States. It used to be a special spot for trains. Today, it is mostly a ghost town, meaning very few or no people live there.
What is Franconia?
Franconia was once known as a railroad siding. Imagine a main train track going across the country. A siding is like a short extra track built next to the main one. Trains could pull onto this siding to let other trains pass by. They could also use it to load or unload goods. This made Franconia an important stop for trains in the past.
The area is about 1,102 feet (336 m) above sea level. This means it's quite high up compared to the ocean.
Where is Franconia Located?
Franconia is found in the western part of Arizona. It's specifically in Mohave County. This county is known for its desert landscapes and historical mining towns.
The exact spot for Franconia is at coordinates 34°44′22″N 114°16′06″W / 34.73944°N 114.26833°W. These numbers help people find its precise location on a map.
Why Did Franconia Become a Ghost Town?
Many places become ghost towns when their main purpose or industry disappears. For Franconia, its importance was tied to the railroad. As transportation methods changed, or if the train routes became less busy, places like Franconia might have been used less and less.
When a town's main reason for existing fades away, people often move to find work or better opportunities elsewhere. Over time, buildings might be left empty, and the town becomes quiet, earning it the name "ghost town."
