Mayday, Colorado facts for kids
Mayday is a fascinating ghost town located in La Plata County, Colorado, United States. A ghost town is a place where most or all of the people have left, often leaving behind empty buildings and a quiet atmosphere. Mayday got its name from a nearby mine called the Mayday Mine.
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What is a Ghost Town?
A ghost town is a former community, usually a town or city, that has become deserted. This often happens because the economic activity that supported the town, like mining or logging, stopped. When the jobs disappear, people move away to find work elsewhere. Over time, buildings might fall apart, and nature can start to reclaim the area.
Why Did Mayday Become a Ghost Town?
Mayday was likely a small settlement that grew up around the Mayday Mine. Many towns in Colorado started this way during the mining booms of the late 1800s and early 1900s. When the mine stopped producing enough valuable minerals, or when the cost of mining became too high, people would leave. This is a common story for many of Colorado's ghost towns.
History of Mayday
The official history of Mayday is quite short, which tells us a lot about its life as a town.
The Mayday Post Office
A post office is a key sign that a community is active and growing. The Mayday post office opened its doors on September 4, 1913. However, it closed very quickly, on December 31, 1914. This short lifespan of just over a year suggests that the town itself was not very large or long-lasting. It likely means that the mining activity it depended on didn't last long either.
Where is Mayday Located?
Mayday is in a beautiful, but remote, part of Colorado.
Geographic Coordinates
You can find Mayday on a map using its geographic coordinates: 37 degrees, 21 minutes, 02 seconds North latitude and 108 degrees, 04 minutes, 36 seconds West longitude. These numbers help pinpoint its exact spot on Earth. 37°21′02″N 108°04′36″W / 37.35056°N 108.07667°W
Elevation Above Sea Level
Mayday is located high up in the mountains. It sits at an elevation of 8,734 feet (which is about 2,662 meters) above sea level. This high altitude means it often has cool temperatures and beautiful mountain views.
