This Abandoned Ghost Town In Washington Will Take You Back In Time

Molson was originally founded back in 1900. In only a year, the population rose to 300 and the town had a newspaper, stores, an attorney, doctor, saloon and even a hotel. It didn't last long, though - by 1901, their mining was failing, and the population fell to only 12 people.

By 1905, the population shot up again with news of a railroad being built. In the meantime, a local farmer filed for a homestead that included most of the area in town. By 1909, he published an official notice that everyone was trespassing and had to leave. Citizens were forced to vacate, and founded the site of New Molson about a 1/2 mile north.

The outdoor exhibit was established later in 1960, in memory of the old town's important history.

The ghost town features this eerie museum, set inside a historic 3-story schoolhouse. It showcases a huge collection of artifacts from the old community, as well as the school's original library and an old, restored classroom.

School was still in session here for years. The facility was used for elementary students up until 1969, but it was finally closed and later re-opened as the museum by 1982.

They have even more things to check out upstairs. You'll be able to browse through century-old items from the town's former bank, barber shop, post office and more. During the summer, there's even a small tea room and gift shop open that provide refreshments and one-of-a-kind souvenirs.

Here's the schoolyard out back. It used to serve as the grounds for 110-120 daily students, but is now just an empty, peculiar area to walk through.

You'll also be able to find this old office building being reclaimed by nature. Back in the day, these "Homestead Locaters" helped manage the excessive amount of immigrants.

Here's one of the two homestead cabins that still remain in town - the "Severt O'Rise." The old lantern still hanging out front gives it the perfect, rustic touch.

Around town, you'll also still be able to see the old mercantile store, law office, shingle mill, assay office and old, rusted farm equipment. And if you're really brave, you can even walk down and explore around the Old Molson Cemetery.