West Hartley, California facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
West Hartley
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Former settlement
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 West Hartley
Location in California
West Hartley
Location in the United States
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| Country | United States |
| State | California |
| County | Contra Costa County |
| Elevation | 440 ft (134 m) |
West Hartley was once a small community in Contra Costa County, California. It was located about 7 miles (11 km) northeast of Mount Diablo. This area is now a ghost town. A ghost town is a place where most or all people have left.
West Hartley was a mining town. It was built because of the coal mines nearby.
Contents
What Was West Hartley?
West Hartley was a community that no longer exists. It was an "unincorporated area." This means it was not officially a city or town with its own local government. Instead, it was part of the larger county.
When Was West Hartley Founded?
The community of West Hartley started in the late 1880s. This was a time when many towns grew quickly in California. People moved there to find work in the mines.
Where Did the Name Come From?
The town was named after a famous coal mine in England. This mine was called the West Hartley coal mine. Naming new places after older, well-known ones was common.
Life in a Mining Town
West Hartley was built around the business of mining coal. Coal was a very important fuel at that time. It was used to power trains, factories, and to heat homes.
Why Did People Live There?
People moved to West Hartley to work in the coal mines. Miners and their families lived in the town. They hoped to earn money and build a new life.
What is a Ghost Town?
West Hartley is now a ghost town. This happens when a town's main industry, like mining, stops. When the mines closed, people moved away to find new jobs. Over time, the town became empty.
West Hartley's Location
West Hartley was located in eastern Contra Costa County. It was at an elevation of 440 feet (134 meters) above sea level. This area is known for its hills and natural beauty.
Near Mount Diablo
The town was situated northeast of Mount Diablo. Mount Diablo is a well-known mountain in the San Francisco Bay Area. It is a popular spot for hiking and enjoying nature.
