A Lonely Hamlet

The ghost town of Garnet, Montana, is a fascinating place with a rich history and eerie stories. Established in the 1860s by miners searching for gold and silver, the town was abandoned after a devastating fire in 1912.

Despite being restored, the town remains empty, and visitors claim to have experienced strange occurrences, including hearing music and laughter and the sound of doors slamming in cottages with no doors. These stories have led to the local folklore that former residents haunt the town. To attract people to the town, the U.S. Bureau of Land Management offers a unique opportunity.

Pros of Moving to Garnet

While free lodging in a furnished cabin and a stipend to work in the town might be tempting enough for anyone to shift to Garnet, living in a haunted ghost town may not be everyone’s cup of tea.

However, for those who enjoy the serenity and freshness of a place and don’t mind the paranormal and those occasional eerie sounds, living in Garnet could be a unique and adventurous experience. There are also opportunities to learn about the town’s history and meet interesting people. It could be a chance for anybody to disconnect from the chaotic city life and modern technology and appreciate a simpler life.

But There Are Downsides Too…

Kelly’s Saloon is a landmark that will greet people stepping in Garnet. The saloon is reported to be haunted by the ghosts of former patrons. Visitors have reported hearing strange voices and music from the abandoned building, adding to the eerie vibe of the town. The sense of isolation and remoteness strikes visitors immediately.

The town is miles from any major city, and the winding dirt road to get there can be treacherous. The lack of modern amenities is a significant downside. There is no electricity or running water in the town. Plus, poor internet connection is also a major factor.

The Town That Sustained Two Major Blows

Garnet became a ghost town twice in its history. The first time was when the gold ran out almost twenty years after its establishment, leading to a rapid decline in its population. It became extra spooky when a devastating fire burnt the town in 1912. The remaining population vanished during WWI.

The Bureau of Land Management released a news article asking volunteers to work at the ghost town. They offered accommodation at a rustic cabin, free food, and a job as a tour operator. The volunteers would work for $29 a day, with the accommodation lacking electricity and running water.

The Wells Hotel

Garnet is an abandoned town known chiefly for the spooky experiences it offers. The Wells Hotel was built in 1897 by Mr. and Mrs. Wells. It is famous for its impressive architecture and luxurious interior design. Despite being long abandoned, visitors have reported hearing the sounds of footsteps and phantom doors closing. That’s eerie!

People willing to reside in this spooky town receive some benefits from the federal government. However, there is a condition. They must work as a guide to the visitors and take them on a tour of the town and also spend some time at the souvenir shop there.