The ghost town of Terlingua is shrouded in legends, which attracts the attention of travelers from all over the world. The semi-abandoned city is considered one of the most unusual sights in Texas. It is located in the southwest of Brewster County, it is not far from the Rio Grande River and the Mexican state of Chihuahua.
History of creation
In the 20th century, it was a full-fledged work settlement, which was called a small town. It was built near the mines from where cinnabar (mercury) was raised. 40% of the total mercury used throughout the country was mined in this place. According to archival data, in the past the population was 3,000 people.
The situation changed when it became known that mercury reserves were decreasing. Against this background, workers began to earn less, and many of them moved to another place. By 1940, there was practically no one left here. It is estimated that approximately 200 people live in the ghost town of Terlingua these days.
Short description
The name of the ghost town of Terlingua is associated with the river Terlingua Creek, which flows nearby. It was named after the Apache, Comanche, and Shawnee Indian tribes – "Terlingua" means "3 languages." Next to the former workers' settlement is the Big Bend Park with an area of more than 3.2 million acres or approximately 13 hectares. Its visitors come to the ghost town of Terlingua, which is one of the reasons why the tourist destination is so developed. The people who stayed here work in the tourism sector.
The ruins are not fenced, admission is free for everyone. You can hire a guide who will tell you the history and local legends of the ghost town of Terlingua. In addition to the old cemetery, mines, and abandoned houses, private boarding houses, a hotel, a bar, shops, a market, and a small theater are open. There is a picturesque sunset view from the site of the old post office. The Chili Festival is organized on the first November weekend. The guests arrive in trailers, go outside in fancy dress, and after the procession, they roast meat in nature to music, chatting in a relaxed atmosphere with friends and family.
Legends of the Ghost Town
There are many legends around the ghost town of Terlingua, and the most popular versions will be described below. They have no confirmation or scientific justification, but they continue to be talked about.
- A woman in a long dress lives in a theater that used to be a movie theater. Both the staff of the institution and visitors have repeatedly said that they saw the silhouette of a mysterious lady in the window. But if you approach it, it disappears instantly. There is an assumption that this woman has been waiting for someone close for so long that she still cannot leave this room.
- Another legend is connected with the old cemetery. According to visitors, faint voices of strangers can be heard from here. There is also a sudden temperature drop during the visit. It is reported that the spirits of the miners roam this place, watching those who come here.
- In 2015, Perry's House, covered in secrets, became a popular tourist destination. The building was built in 1906, it was a wedding gift for the bride. Over time, the house was destroyed due to heat, wind and thunderstorms. It was bought by a Terlingua resident, renovated and opened to the public.
How to get
You will not be able to get to the ghost town of Terlingua by public transport, as it does not run here. You can order a taxi or rent a car. Carsharing services are available from the age of 21, but some companies may conclude a contract with a client upon reaching the age of 18, subject to increased insurance and a limited choice of vehicles.
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