Isaiah, California facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Isaiah
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Former settlement
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 Isaiah
Location in California
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| Country | United States |
| State | California |
| County | Butte County |
| Elevation | 984 ft (300 m) |
| 41:2-4 | |
Isaiah is a ghost town located in Butte County, California, United States. A ghost town is a place that used to be a busy community but is now mostly empty. Isaiah is about 5.5 miles (8.9 km) north-northwest of Berry Creek. It sits at an elevation of 984 feet (300 meters).
Contents
What Was Isaiah?
Isaiah was once a small community that started because of mining. People came to the area hoping to find valuable minerals. Later, it became important for trains. It served as a "watering station" where steam-powered trains could stop to refill their water tanks. This was very important for trains traveling long distances.
A Place on the Map
Isaiah was part of a large area called the Bidwell Tract, which was set up in 1876. Even though it was a small place, Isaiah continued to appear on maps as late as 1948. This shows it was a recognized location for many years.
The Post Office
Like many small towns, Isaiah had its own post office. It operated for several years, helping people send and receive mail. The post office was open from 1919 to 1943. It then reopened for a short time from 1947 to 1954.
Why Isaiah Became a Ghost Town
The main reason Isaiah became a ghost town was a big construction project. In 1961, the Oroville Dam was built nearby. This dam project changed the landscape and the path of the railroad.
The Railroad Changes Course
Because of the dam, the railroad tracks had to be moved. This meant that trains no longer passed through Isaiah. Without the trains stopping for water, the town lost its main purpose. People who lived there eventually sold their land. Today, the area where Isaiah once stood is privately owned.
