The town of Gilman rests high on the side of Battle Mountain in Colorado. It’s a former mining settlement that has fallen into ruin since being abandoned decades ago. The deserted town was once a thriving hub of industry, but was left to rot after a series of disasters.

Read on to learn more about the site, and check out the stunning images photographer Johnny Joo captured at this poisonous ghost town.

You can see the southernmost homes in Gilman through the pines.
Dan Turner via SUBSTREET
Gilman got its start in 1878 when the first mine was discovered beneath what would eventually become the town.
Dan Turner via SUBSTREET
Gilman churned out thousands of pounds of iron, zinc and lead each year.
Dan Turner via SUBSTREET
The community was mainly composed of miners and their families.
Dan Turner via SUBSTREET
As the mines became more profitable, the town grew. There was a theater, a hotel called the Iron Mask, schools and even a newspaper.
Dan Turner via SUBSTREET

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In 1899, a fire destroyed half of the budding mountain town.
Dan Turner via SUBSTREET
However, it was the toxic clouds and polluted water supply caused by the mills and mines that eventually spelled the end for Gilman.
Dan Turner via SUBSTREET
One basement room is filled with x-rays taken of miners that were stored by the mining company.
Dan Turner via SUBSTREET
The town was declared unfit for human habitation in 1984 and the residents were forcibly evacuated.
Dan Turner via SUBSTREET
That means that unlike many ghost towns, the old residents of Gilman are very likely still out there somewhere.
Dan Turner via SUBSTREET

The story of Gilman is both inspiring and tragic. Check out Johnny Joo’s new book Americana Forgotten for more incredible images of abandoned places around the country.

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