In 1866, silver-bearing sandstone was discovered on the east slope of the Pine Valley Mountains. The first claims were worked in 1874. By 1877, the town had over 100 businesses, including a racetrack and a brewery. In 1879, the town housed over 2,000 citizens, but by 1890 only 177 citizens remained. In the early 1900s many of the remaining buildings were demolished, and a fire in 1908 destroyed almost all that remained.
Silver Reef still has about 10 visible ruins, including the Rice Bank Building. There is a museum in the restored Wells Fargo Express building, which is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
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| Facilities: |
A museum; no restrooms; no drinking water. |
| Directions: |
In Washington County, Utah; 15 miles north of St. George and 1.5 miles west of Leeds. Take Exit 22 off of Interstate 15. |
| Coordinates: |
Map Coordinates (NAD83): 37 15.177N; 113 22.037W. |
| Weather: |
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