I used to frequent the mines of Cerro Gordo back in the 70's when I was a young man. The mine tunnels were in better shape back then, and we must have walked for miles down in the mountain. Extremely extraordinary mines honeycombed into the rock and other not so stable rock formations. A dangerous mine, for sure, but very addictive in it's adventure possibilities in the nether world. Good on ya, Brent! I am happy you purchased the town before it was destroyed by the lure of maximized profits. Remember, setbacks make the whole concept more enjoyable, and worthwhile, in the long run.
@@jax422 I did not ever go down the main shaft. Back then there were 6-8 open tunnels. Many were blown shut in the 80's when people started getting scared of adventures. Mine exploring is extremely dangerous. The older the mine, the more dangerous as timbers sag and crack, and gravity wins in the end. It is exciting to go as deep as possible, but also very stupid. Mine carts, broken shovels, drill bits, and old dynamite boxes..detris of the urgent desire for riches beckon you to danger. Like moths to the flame we continue.
@@Dereks06 50 years is quite awhile. It would be fun to go back up there and noodle around. The whole area is quite bizarre There are bristlecone pines up around the top of the mountain...oldest trees in the country. One can see a long ways from the top. Dave Sparks is an amazing guy. A real American with old school values. I think he opened up one of the old tunnels in one episode. It was caved in noy far inside. Some of that mountain is really crumbly rock, and very unstable. Thus, the extreme danger going in for old hands and newbies alike. A collapse is the last sound you will ever hear.
@@dougrohr2804 I explore sandstone mines made from the 1950s in Minnesota. Ford mined the sand for glass. So i understand the risk of collapse and all other risks of going into a mine, cave, drains or tunnels and have had lots of professional training within these fields. Thank you for sharing your story and addition information. I love reading personal experiences. My father was an explorer in the late 70s when he was in his 20s. I am now 25 and have so much respect for older explorers and will always listen to what they have to say. I could not do it without today's technology (lights, o2 meters, etc...instead of lighting a match). Very impressive sir. Thank you, stay safe and may God bless.
I remember watching the first episode of ghost town living in the middle of the pandemic and just seeing the scenery was very nice especially when it snowed.
What I find so fascinating is how one person can have such an infectious passion that it ignites similar passion in so many others. One person, bringing a ghost town to life by basically crowd-sourcing enthusiasm, passion, excitement and genuine love for the project. Man... only a couple of weeks ago and act of nature that had the potential to break the spirit of many but what amazing resilience to roll with that punch and keep moving on and be upbeat too. I truly and genuinely hope to visit Cerra Gordo one day to check the place out and meet Brent!
Yes and No. From day 1 I've watched Brent, not only he prefers to be alone, only socially gets involved if it's for this town. I get history and passion, projects, dreams, hopes, fantasy, time, money, BUT notice it's become more than this to him, it's consuming him as a whole. I am concerned for his mind set and health in the long run. Best of luck on Preservation but I'd rather him NOT become one as a rock like the rest .
U maybe have a point I analyze him, I even sent him some info on things if ne1 or either of you want to communicate with me, I'll let u know I'm I'm white male american and if u want to see my face I'll post a picture, I have a video of a fan I took for 10 seconds, with profil pariah el destierro, I didn't use tags so u have to type in at least video of a fan comment spot , and it should be a blue fan 10 seconds an a dirty floor an shoe shoe, but I call it comment spot pressing issues, so people can communicate, I'm going to eventually probably leave a book, they make too many songs about me, it's weird to see a music video and they feel you touching them some of my thoughts are physical, an I forget 5he video but they have 1 about possibly time travelers that take what they want have no respect, except over 10 yrs ago I knew some1 could possibly put graffiti of what I thought an did at 5he time qn I felt I could probably deal with it l, if it was all I had to deal with, but I have walked the street that to me what I was doing while doing it, I woke up from being tortured and finally the chainsaw chucking the back of my head flicked my eyes open and honestly even if it was severe and humorous to some1 I thought it was awesome t be awake an I knew some1 might screw with me an started out the garage door the guy I rented from was standing to the right of his girl backyard l, and he said I see it now, and so I started walking as they started walking, and se yelled t the dog but it was towards me, qn started saying what I thought, went front of the charity house some mom an daughter were talking shit kinda like it was hell, i was like this is like hell, I made it to the the kinda 1nce hippie coffee shop place, still same thing just add hipster wifi and a guitar and company any1 is welcome the pass is autonomy! Qn they give me money occasionally because they got a public tip jar ne1 can grab, I'm gad I only bummed 1nce in some time, but there is a chalk of a dead body outline a few houses away, and probably a symbol on 5he whops mailbox, it may have a circle if u look it means I was saying everything is good in that direction, I was sitting at the park the 50 had got an apc armored vehicle that looked like minion had sex with a hummer, I went in 5he place before, it's got that satanic time traveler gleam even in the bathroom, cops talked shite at me as left their initial sit downs like 20 of em, I asked 1 cop just to see what he'd say, can hear me think, and he chuckled and said no and I can't see what ur thinking either, qn I said maybe I shouldn't have asked a cop and we smiled and left, iwas sitting on 5he bench looked down, an there was the graffiti again, hadn't translated this 1 be4, it was same color red as bench just barely noticeable off, I can make people rich probably just by telling them things I would like some1 to talk to, I know an unusual amount I think I hung out with an alien younger than me started at 11, he knew everything but couldn't remember more often than what you'd deem possible l, he'd say word for word 3-7 hr stories never eleivating from 5he beaten path, only 1 time when I was like 12-13 did I wonder if he would go mad if I let em by reacting the wrong way some, but I had admit how mind-boggling 3ar5h shattering it would be even more to some1 thats obviously a genius l, he liked watching people get tortured and whacked tho, I woke up from his room one day I been working at long John's I did something I'd never do and just went upstairs and slept on his bed, probably at least 2 rooms weren't being used, maybe if u count parents room 3 of the upstairs kids rooms, guess u could hang in the addic, neways it was a red k, and I could see it had an up qn down arrow with no stick, I translated and was bothered they knew that I was gathering faith and decided to look only in front and behind isn't it I decided to let my soul occupy those areas instead of left an right cuz life was real crappy kinda, some people walked by the like idk 1.5 story all black f3ma cop black tank that kinda looked like it was ready for the Zombie apocalypse like sticks thru the wall was actually kinda a concept but there was no holes it was just higher up because of that mounted machine gun, a chick drove in I recognized her mighta worked Burger King or anywhere, she said I hope that's not for me. And even the coffee shop guy said what I had assumed earlier after the chainsaw was most pleasant dream, 5he guy kept sticking a toothpick in my left butcheek or leg and some like alien cactus if u got it out stuck to fingers, it wasn't as annoying as pulling out the toothpick ne he'd gravity stick it right back in, I couldn't wake up at all that chainsaw 5o the back of my head had to chuck bout halfway through, I ain't gonna lie it was one of the most amazing experiences I had, because I never hurt that much, he took like too screw drivers like nutters and sh9ved them both between 2 different ribs in a be4 dream and I knew better than to try to assume later they ditch some of the handicap, check out Harrison Bergeron, or Reagan speech is decent, and the fortress is probably as good as evil dead 2/3 crime does not pay!!
oh you have put into words exactly how i feel. i'm wishing and wondering how i can help. hahaha. but i'm older, limited in strength and endurance and live all the way across the county...and i've always disliked "desert type, western" aesthetics...but now i'm enthused.
@@sherilynl4038 if u Haven't seen the fortress yet, its kinda like a futuristic prison film, laser bars. But it's out in the middle of the desert, I liked being out in the desert, but I'm gonna get fd off neway I was living in the desert, I wasn't trained in the ways of rotting meat so j condemned most of the already rotting trailer house neways. My grany came and got me, I forgot to unset the traps I learned my lesson I lived on rotting rat bread never forget that taste and I didn't have service so I couldn't find out how to cook goat, besides told me to do it in a hole qn I figured there's a few holes!! With that plan, knee slap×)
@@blackmonday738 Even if eaten whole he would be dienhappy, cuz we can hide emotions. But damn this dude loves his life atm. All the ups and down. This dude shines!
We started a project in the Baja California Mountains almost 3 years ago, our family ranch had been adbandon for year so my wife ,my son and I decided to bring it back to life again, Hard work, Long drives,pandemia and crazy weather almost made us quit, one day I found your channel and you became part or our project...now we are almost done and the satisfaction of seeing our place almost finish we celebrate it each sunset...Coyote Blues Ranch . Gracias Señor Brent. PD ,I will be 67 on the 25 of september and for first time in many year I feel like having a fiesta..I earn it
Congratulations on bringing back a piece of your families and the local area's history. Enjoy your afternoon siesta's that you've more than earned! No mas de trabaho loco. ;)
On android phones (probably iphones, too) there's a setting that allows you to store GPS coordinates automatically of where a picture was taken. Just have to make sure you have your camera settings correct, and GPS (location services) is actually turned on. I know it's just a small thing, but if you intend to make a habit of documenting all your finds from now on, having the phone do this for you automatically will save you hours, cumulatively.
Just be careful about the tools you use to manage and store them, as it may strip that out. You can use IrfanView (free for personal use) to see the data. (Open IrfanView, open photo, press "i", look for/press "EXIF Info" button. If the button is missing, there's no EXIF data in the photo.)
Important information for Brent: If not turned specifically off, iPhone’s default camera will store GPS in metadata, and you just need to swipe up on the photo to see on a global map where it was taken (also metadata can be automatically extracted later and even put into file name) Also important advice: ether not turn off the camera during whole trip, or install an app, that keeps tracking satellites even if camera_is_off/phone_in_standby, otherwise the precision will be not good enough for your goal, because each time you turn on the camera, phone will reinitialize satellite tracking, and it will get a minute (literally) to catch up and find enough satellites for a half meter precision
I’m currently camping near Lands End in far southwest England, incredibly close to the ruins of tin and copper mines. I can’t think of a better way to spend a drizzly evening than to be in my sleeping bag watching a video about the progress of my favourite Californian ghost town that grew because of mining. Thank you Brent 😊
I was going to reply to this comment and say I've always wanted to go there, then saw your last name. Maybe we're related lol If you ever can go camping in upstate NY/Vermont area. The area around Lake George, NY is beautiful
Definitely goto Trevose Head if your nearby loads of Fossils to be found on the coastline especially near the coastal waters by the lighthouse, still have a few ammonite fossils I found when visiting as a kid
In saloons, two bits were good for two drinks, a good cigar or a “smile” (a 2 ½-ounce bottle of whiskey). A cheap cigar or beer was 5 cents and a game of pool was usually 2 ½ cents. When a customer ordered a 12 ½-cent drink and paid with a quarter, he had the choice of receiving a dime in change or a token for another drink at 12 ½ cents. He would rarely pass on that second drink. Since the token was only good in that particular establishment, he hung around and spent his token, and probably a few more quarters as well. If a token wasn’t redeemed, the proprietor made even more money, as it only cost him 2 to 4 cents to have one made.
Would you have those drinks before or after you walked 15 miles to school in a snow storm? LOL. Joking, I'm getting up there myself at 61. What decade are those prices for, the late 1800s? I really am curious. 🤔👍
Late to the show and I am sure someone already said this but the lock is a railroad switch stand lock. The hole at the bottom is for a chain. Keys are still available for them. I have several locks and a number of keys.
I think it's safe to say that Cerro Gordo is no longer a "Ghost" town. It is alive and it has a beating heart and its name is Brent Underwood. Thank you for pouring your soul into this project and bringing us along on the journey. Every dream begins with a dreamer...Keep dreaming Brent.
I’m an archivist. Organizing documents, artifacts, etc. is my job. One thing that any archivist, historian, or archeologist will tell you is that an object’s provenance (info about where/when an object was found, who found it, etc.) can be incredibly important when it comes to understanding the object, what it might have been used for, what it’s historical context is, etc. Your new understanding of and enthusiasm for documenting the provenance of objects at Cerro Gordo is fantastic and makes me really happy to see. Keep up the good work Brent!
Certainly better than when I lived in the Inyo/Mono area. The local Government was a joke back in the late 70s - early 80s (when I lived in the area, Mammoth Lakes) as far as getting things done. With ever changing regulations they were scared to start anything in fear of the regulations changing suddenly. At least that's the excuse/reason they gave. Question: What's the difference between a reason and an excuse? I'm still trying to figure that out. LOL...
Im glad your letting me tag alone i dont see well at all and have COPD im on oxgen so watching your videos allowing me to tag along is like being right along side for the adventure love it thanks again steve
though I had some problem with sea water It also ua-cam.com/users/postUgkxa-FNYUOM93a388gi9a4brtSCEVmrHgJH land for finding any things very easily. (thought it would work as normal due to it being water proof within certain parts of the detector), on dry land and sand worked well. My first one, so still have lots to learn
Thank you for your commentary at the end of the video. I’m dealing with illness. For three years I’ve not had a healthy day. Your pep talk And words of wisdom will help me I will help me get through yet another day. I love your videos and your mission at Cerro Gordo. My goal is to get healthy enough to one day come out and witness at all for myself
I've owned a construction company in southeast Missouri for many years, and the fact that you can get people to show up to volunteer blows my mind. Its next to impossible to find people willing to work in my area. Glad to see everything coming together up on the mountain. I've been watching since the beginning. Keep up the hard work man. It's gonna be well worth it in the end.
I worry about what he’s going to do when it’s illegal to use gas powered anything up there in CG since California is making everyone go electric. Lol crazy
@@ScottyDoesntKnow69 solar panels, and charging? having solar panels out there is probably a good idea as is. I mean, gas doesnt come from the sun like solar energy does.
@@messagedeleted1922 lol solar panels don’t run excavators or really much of anything. Technology is not there yet but the future is definitely not solar panels or wind panel farms.
As a fellow archaeologist in WA state, I would also recommend having a “virtual museum”. As your channel has reached people across the globe it would be a great way to showcase 3D models or close up photos of the artifacts you find. Each with a brief description, time, and location found. I’ve followed your channel since the start and I LOVE that you’ve gotten recognition from other archaeologists. I would also even look into the prehistoric record of the area. It would be so interesting to see how the land has changed over time depending on the people who resided there. We know the area you’re in was inhabited over 10,000 years ago. Your very close to Pueblo Grande. I would almost guarantee there is prehistoric artifacts and lithics (stone tools) on your land. I would recommend Janetski and Talbot (2014) “Archaeology in the Great Basin and Southwest.” A personal favorite book of mine is “The Chaco Experience” by Ruth Van Dyke (2007). Im out in the field often and always look forward to coming back to a video. Thanks for all you do Brent.
As a geologist from Belgium I second that. 😂 Also our local train station buildings got repurposed. One of the buildings is now decorated with a large reproduction of the architecture plans from the early 1900's. Neat decoration.
A few years ago very few people were aware of Cerro Gordo. Thanks to you Brent it is obvious that you have brought your ghost town into the future. Inyo county has also noticed the national and international exposure! most of it good! We believe in you Brent after the destruction of the floods this video brought hope and joy. Thanks for allowing us to join in your adventure.
May I suggest that everyone who's metal detecting have their location setting on their phone on and when they find something they can take a picture of it which will automatically GPS it. Also, they can stick an orange flag in the ground and once you fly over it with the drone you'll be able to also see the location of each item found. Maybe they could even scribble with the item was on the flag with a sharpie. Not that it would last that long but it would last long enough if you were confused you could see. Another idea would be to place like a red dinner plate so that when the drone is up, multiple items can be seen from one snapshot giving an overall view of density of items.
This is what I do when I metal detect in a large area. It has been very helpful in tracking where and what I find so I can go back or not go over spots.
My GPS unit includes date, time, location on pics...and doesn't lose cell coverage. Bit of a problem under dense trees or canyon walls which prevent access to satellites, sometimes.
11:50 I think it'd be cool to find a picture of the town from ~150 years ago and have it printed on a big pane glass window (like an old glass negative), have that window placed at the location of the original photographer so as you look thru the glass, you could see where all the buildings were.
I just want to say, that your perseverance makes me want to keep going. I currently feel tired, exhuasted; but we all feel this way. It's all part of the journey, thank you for your messages!
I am an Aussie and love watching ghost town living. love getting on google maps and checking out the area of Cerro Gordo hills and valleys. I love the passion Brent has for Cerro Gordo history
@@Nessal83 I lived on the China Lake Base nearby for 7 years. The wind is a booger sandwich but you will never forget the Sunrise and Sunsets when you leave. If you are lucky you will get to see a bright golden/red one that almost fills the entire sky.
I do not live in the USA, have never been and very unlikely I will visit in the future but..... Ever since I came across Ghost Town Living I am eager to watch every new post, every new find It is so exciting for me, I can even believe I once lived there in my mind. You are very special person to me keeping the history of the USA alive and exciting for the new young and old "historians" who may help or visit you now and in the future. I so wish I could. Please keep up the good work for those who will follow.
I hope your wish to visit is fulfilled while you can enjoy it to the fullest. If you enjoy this channel there are a lot of similar locations in California. I lived there for my first 30 years on this world and now reside in Colorado. The biggest difference between the two states is Colorado doesn't have a Coastline, so no ocean surfing, but whitewater rafting is a close second. ;)
I’m watching from the uk 🇬🇧 and it blows my mind to see the love you recieve from all your countrymen and women. It’s awe inspiring and a testament to you for investing and bringing this place back to life well done mate you’ve done something that will be here when you are not …massive love and respect
I am currently studying archaeology, and I've had an interest in it for many years. Documentation is incredibly important, so I am glad to hear that you're making efforts to record the location of these artifacts
What I love about you is how you come across as genuinely humbled and amazed from the success you have had with Cerro Gordo. Your joy comes through the screen and we can feel it. Plus your respect for the history you are a caretaker for is inspirational.
Brent, I love seeing the natural beauty of Cerro Gordo in your videos, I love hearing about its history and the stories you tell about your experience in bringing it back to life, but mostly, I love the way you get thoughtful about things. The burden of dreams, the dog days of a big project... you are a true educator. So glad i found you out here.
The people who used to live in this town would be so amazed and proud of what your doing. This is super cool. Your whole process. been watching for awhile and it’s inspiring
@@rasta4082 Maybe the presence of human life did in fact contribute to that disaster, yet laying your reptilian response aside do you not feel he has taken on the responsibility of that and is doing more than both you or I could ever do, to remedy an unfortunate situation?
Hey Brent, great video. As far a cataloging the stuff you find, I was thinking that you could get a GIS intern to set you up with an app from ESRI called Field Maps. I use it at work for exactly what you’re doing. Basically, you can catalog everything with your phone (pics, documents, etc) and it maps it, then places it into a database that you can use. It’s a great way to visualize an area and extremely user friendly. Just a thought that I’ve had watching your series. I majored in GIS at Sac State; there are a lot of GIS students looking for capstone projects and this would be a great one!
It’s so great when a plan comes together. Not having to wait 10 weeks for the road to be ‘fixed’ must have been like all your birthdays came at once. You have a very special gift of looking beyond what could have been a disastrous outcome and you can see that it has lifted your hopes and spirit. It was lovely to see all 100 metal detectorists and the joy on your face when they all brought in their booty. Worth its weight in gold to see you happy again. Take care, be safe. ❤️ Dorset, UK
You look like someone that is having SO much fun that they can't wait to wake up every morning. It's very inspiring.. and your life looks amazing. Thanks for sharing it with us.
Get a good handheld GPS receiver. Get a stack of 3X5 index cards and Consecutively number them in nice large figures. When you find something, put the card next to it and take your pictures. Save the location in the GPS as a waypoint using the index number as the name. Write any notes and such on the card. After you download the pics from your camera to your computer, rename the pic to match the index number. Rinse and repeat using a new card each time. When you are done, you have a unique number for every item that you can use to find the location, find the pic, find the card with notes, etc. When the winter weather forces you indoors, you can spend a bit of time getting everything entered in a nice spreadsheet or database. If you label any item which you bring back with the number, anything in your museum that you pick up can be easily connected to date, location, pictures, notes, etc. In short, treat the artifacts as inventory, the index number as a part number, and the entire property as a gigantic warehouse.
I would love to hear just the sounds of Cerro Gordo. Everything is soo peaceful there. I feel like the fact that you take such good care of everything the land gives back to you and slowly opens up to show you what it really had tucked away from everyone.
Maybe when he gets that music studio going, they’ll have the recording, mixing, and mastering equipment to record and self-produce an ambient “Sounds of Cerro Gordo” album on the “Cerro Gordo Recordings” label, along with whatever else they plan to record up there…
I have to say, as Business major focusing on statistical modeling and information systems (databases, gps data, mapping software, etc.) the idea of the mines around Cerro Gordo being documented with LIDAR is so so exciting. Data is awesome!!
I like the way Brent centers himself often. "This puts everything into perspective" is such a great way to tackle just about anything in life, looking at things from both inside and outside of the box
Thanks for continuing to share your life in that little town. It is beyond cool to see into the past the way you get to see it every day. I can't wait to have a stay in the American hotel one day. Keep on going Brent.
Back in the late 70s, I was hanging out at Picacho State recreation area near Yuma. The person who was overseeing the gold mine out there was really friendly with our group, and when flash flood exposed the remains of the assay office with its mining crucibles and cupels, he took us out there, and we had great fun finding these items, often in stacks.
Your closing statements touched me as I am over ten years into an engineering construction project, sometimes I feel like I take ant steps in a marathon, where a days work, or even a months work is almost nothing, when compared to the huge amount I still need to do. I don't have the energy I had when I began the project either, as now I'm closer to 70 years old than sixty, but it's true I would find it a lesser life if I were to live without my dream. So I will keep on pushing and I will get there somehow.
Your channel and videos are probably the only long videos I watch on UA-cam. I love history , ghost towns , and you put this stuff together so well and show the passion
I’m so impressed at the long term commitment you have dedicated to this project. Resurrecting a mining town of ages past is no small commitment! Godspeed in all you do out there in the desert!
I've been watching this channel pretty much since it started. I get excited when I see a new video is uploaded. Brent you sir are a an amazing story teller and please continue to upload these videos! I hope to visit someday and see this in person.
Beautiful and heart warming as always Brent. It is truly amazing the county was able to get equipment and operators free to get on the road so much earlier than originally expected. Someone knows the right people, in the right place, at the right time, and thankfully, they understand the importance of the timeline you are working with up there. Kudos to the county! Your dedication and hard work are paying off. Even though it sometimes feels insurmountable, you are beginning the realize the power of the whole world pulling, praying and pitching in to bring back Cerro Gordo…to bring the history and the stories this community wants to tell the world. Thank you for dreaming Brent. Thank you for wanting/needing to learn the history. And thank you for sharing it with the world. We are excited to see what each new video brings! Stay safe and stay healthy! ❤️❤️❤️
These videos mean so much to me. They give me inspiration to pursue my dreams. The scenery alone in these videos is breathtaking. And then you add to that Brent's inspirational words at the end of each video. It's perfect.
Listening to your stories and putting a prospective out there of your drive and all the volunteers to make this place whole again and left for the next generations is so heart warming. Thanks for hanging in there. Awesome video.
This whole thing really makes you think about just how hard it must have been and how long it must have taken to make the original road back in the day
It didn’t take as long as you would think, people work and harder and we’re far more determined in those times even though they had no modern equipment.
It was funny, at the beginning of the video when you said, "Guess what happened?" Or something like that? And the camera turns around to show the grader and other vehicles come to help fix the road. I was almost expecting to see "Big D" and his crew! Glad things are back under way. You're awesome Brett! Keep going, never give up!
@@randallsmerna384 With that crew, I personally had to click the “do not recommend channel” button on YT. I’m turned off by their hyper-commercialized content. IMO they’re just social media opportunists pushing garbage on people for quick $$$, also possibly to build a personal militia and weapons and materiel stockpile. It’s a little weird and scary.
I love the fact that you humanize everything you find. I think the same way whenever I find something that is, as my son puts it, from the "old world." You Chanel is worth watching.
I love that every video is like a mini history lesson. I'm glad the County could help sooner then they said they would, and I hope you (Brent) can get what you need done to the AH before Winter sets in upon you.
Hello BRENT !!! Brandon here from AZ. I've been following your channel since your 2nd video. It was a great pleasure touring Cerro Gordo last Friday. I was very pleased that you were able to take a few minutes to spend with me. Big thanks to Phil for giving my stepmom Cindy and myself the in-depth tour of all the amazing artifacts that you have recovered. It was also great to see/meet Scotty. The road was intense to drive up, to say the least. I am still amazed your little Toyota 2WD handles that road up. The county has done an incredible job of restoring the road. I will look forward to seeing the American Hotel come BACK TO LIFE --- Stronger and better than ever. I will try to return next year to see your progress on everything. Best wishes on all your future exploration.
man this is freaking amazing brent!! i really can’t believe how far everything and everyone has came! These videos i have watched over and over again because i just can’t get enough! The way you’re bring history back into this town is just absolutely beautiful man! need more people like you in this world brent! the smiles i see even when things are the hardest up there You are just a strong and kind hearted man! i really can’t wait to come up and visit you and be able to sit and talk about the mines and the houses and everything up there it’s such a beautiful thing that you’re doing brent! i’m only 16 years old and from NY i haven’t lived or really seen anything of this world due to money problems in the family but my biggest wish is to be able to come and help out and do whatever i can up there! again It’s a beautiful thing you’re doing brent! Can’t wait to come and see your beautiful town!
I would hope that Inyo County realizes that the rebuilding of Cerro Gordo will be a boon to tourism in Keeler.At least,that is my hope for the town. So many people are now interested in the town that Keeler should be a jumping off point for CG tours. Vehicles that can easily traverse the 7 mile road will bring people who could not otherwise make the trip. I see a great opportunity in the future. Best of luck!
@@Porty1119 , Know it well.. my family sold our ranch in the Central Valley after 118 years.. Fines for watering live stock, wouldn't let us rebuild our barn, homeless in our fields, illegal pot growing in our woods, illegals walking through the property, Anti 2nd. Amt., people saying we can only plow day time, cows smelled, no water, fires, fuel costs, electric costs, ect. So I do know California very well.. And the cities are shxxholes Now..
Hi Brent glad you rallied! My heart hurt for you after your last post. I’m a believer in everything happening for a reason. Glad to see you are feeling more optimistic and glad the county is available. Be well!
Brent, continue being who you are, and people will continue to flock to you. Your dream is an inspiration to so many...you have a good grasp of the humbleness and respect for history and nature. Thank you for your persistence and drive. It's worth it. In more ways than you know.
I live treasure hunting. You are so lucky to have all that history. When I go to antique stores I always picture an item and the lives that once used that item. It's so neat to think about.
Hey Brent, long time viewer here, followed you from Day One, visited Cerro Gordo once in 2010, and was blown away. I've recently visited the Empire Mine in Grass Valley, and their visitor centre includes an incredible diorama/schematic display of the mines hundreds of passages. Its a large glass cabinet display and can be backlit. It gives you a very clear perspective on the numerous shafts, the depths they reached. Worth a visit. Good luck with the road, man, you have some bad luck, but I can't help but admire your never say die spirit and your sense of adventure. I know you'll come through and put Cerro Gordo on the map again! Namaste 😃
I just love how you can see your enthusiasm for this project when you're talking about it. Thats what it takes to accomplish a dream so big! What I wouldn't give to spend a week or 2 in Cerro Gordo. You can almost feel the peace of the place through the TV. P.S. Thanks for the origin of the 'Dog days'! I love little known knowledge like that!
Brent, Thank you for your videos. I am sincere when I say it is better than anything on TV and most movies. Your story, your insight, and positive attitude reaches people in ways that you can only imagine. The "Dog days" really suck. We HEAR your message and it is needed. You are making history. Keep doing what you do.
Should've asked Heavy D Sparks to give you a hand to rebuild the road! The metal detecting even looked awesome! Uncovering so much history in a small area
Wow! Another amazing video. But I wanted to say, I love the community that supports Cerro Gordo. So much love and positivity. Obstacles are surmountable with support from the amazing community. Even Inyo county folks came through for you. ❤ It was so encouraging to see the monumental effort that it took to get the roads back in operation. You got this, Brent! Winter is coming and I am praying everything gets done in time.
This is the best channel on UA-cam! I’d have never thought I could be captivated by a ghost town in America from here in the UK, but I am! Brent, your passion for the town, the mines and their history is infectious and captivating. I’ve added a visit to Cerro Gordo and a stay in the American Hotel to my bucket list.
Hello Brent, I’ve been following for some time now. You are quite a guy! Hats off to all your volunteers and contractors and contributors helping bring your dream to life. I’m not sure what aspect speaks to my soul the most: the scenery, the history, the archeology, the ingenuity (thanks David Sparks), the tenacity, or the philosophy. It’s all amazing, keep reaching for the stars.
That first video of you walking in the snow & getting a bit lost has always been one of my favourites 👍👍👍👍 Great to see how well you have done collaborating with people like Dave Sparks , don’t look back to often but always remember how far you have come. 👍👍
This channel makes me emotional in a excited for history in the fashion of how I like history presented kind of way. Mystery, always learning, exploring and imagining what things where like. I especially love it because growing up my dad and I would explore the Mojave desert for mines and cool rock and go dirt bike riding etc. love the channel.
I really appreciate your way of story telling ! Life is difficult and we often go through difficult challenges. We have to find the strength to go through them the best we can. Have a wonderful day !
Please be super careful when traversing washes, we don't want you injured ! Great news that you are recording your finds, this is similar to the way many of us record metal detecting finds in the UK as it helps identify 'hot spots'
I just shared this channel with 2 of my close friends. This is the type of thing we all dream of doing. Thank you for the videos, and hang in there when it gets tough, you are reminding people of how hard people worked to build this country and why it worth preserving.
Your words at the end of the episode really struck something deep with me. I admire your passion and am grateful for your words. I wish the best for the future of Cerro Gordo.
32:34 - 35:44 this bit resonated with me so much. Because while I wouldn't say I had quit, I wasn't doing. And a couple years down the road it's difficult again. I've had some help recently that got me over that hump. I really love your story telling, and openness to share yourself and what you're going through. This is just another moment in your videos that has helped give me perspective. Thanks you for the motivation!
You've got this, Brent. I honestly despaired when you were up against the concrete problem. You kept at it, and worked miracles. Keep going! Excellent that an archaeology paper has been written on you, too. Have been having a bit of a sh**tty time lately, and your video is soothing my ravaged nerves 💗🌵👍🌼🌃🎈
Thank you for your words of encouragement, I just moved to another state across the United States and it's been hard I can't lie. And I do find myself panicking sometimes but I have to realize that I'm stronger than I think, I will pull through. I was having a rough day paying all my bills the past couple days but your words helped me clarify today that I'm in my right place. Thank you.
So happy the County is working on the road. Good for you moving forward despite the recent flood. I'm sure there are plenty more things to uncover in Cerro Gordo. Enjoying the metal detecting events.
You have an amazing office to work in every day . You have it made , not to underestimate how much work it is , when you love what your doing you’ll never work a day in your life. Food for thought yall !!!!!!!
You mean the world to all of us all around the world🤗 I find myself with tears in my eyes so many times by the end of the video because you show us the true passion and love you have for Cerro Gordo and the surrounding beautiful landscape each and everytime.
I think you had some really awesome treasure you found, but the real treasure was everyone’s united contribution and enthusiasm to the whole project and event. This video really brought but me up from a low point. What a fun journey it has been following along! Stay safe out there 🍻
you amazing dude, never give up, if I could Id drop everything in the uk and come and help for along as you needed,Remember to take breaks and appreciate the rest., modern day inspiration ❤ love from the uk
Your passion, determination and love for you home and the history of your home is so unique. I just love watching you and the way you keep forging ahead. Much love from Vermont.
I used to frequent the mines of Cerro Gordo back in the 70's when I was a young man. The mine tunnels were in better shape back then, and we must have walked for miles down in the mountain. Extremely extraordinary mines honeycombed into the rock and other not so stable rock formations. A dangerous mine, for sure, but very addictive in it's adventure possibilities in the nether world. Good on ya, Brent! I am happy you purchased the town before it was destroyed by the lure of maximized profits. Remember, setbacks make the whole concept more enjoyable, and worthwhile, in the long run.
Did you take the elevator down or use the other entrances?
@@jax422 I did not ever go down the main shaft. Back then there were 6-8 open tunnels. Many were blown shut in the 80's when people started getting scared of adventures. Mine exploring is extremely dangerous. The older the mine, the more dangerous as timbers sag and crack, and gravity wins in the end. It is exciting to go as deep as possible, but also very stupid. Mine carts, broken shovels, drill bits, and old dynamite boxes..detris of the urgent desire for riches beckon you to danger. Like moths to the flame we continue.
@@dougrohr2804 perhaps you can point out those blown shut entrances and dave sparks can reexpose them
@@Dereks06 50 years is quite awhile. It would be fun to go back up there and noodle around. The whole area is quite bizarre There are bristlecone pines up around the top of the mountain...oldest trees in the country. One can see a long ways from the top. Dave Sparks is an amazing guy. A real American with old school values. I think he opened up one of the old tunnels in one episode. It was caved in noy far inside. Some of that mountain is really crumbly rock, and very unstable. Thus, the extreme danger going in for old hands and newbies alike. A collapse is the last sound you will ever hear.
@@dougrohr2804 I explore sandstone mines made from the 1950s in Minnesota. Ford mined the sand for glass. So i understand the risk of collapse and all other risks of going into a mine, cave, drains or tunnels and have had lots of professional training within these fields. Thank you for sharing your story and addition information. I love reading personal experiences. My father was an explorer in the late 70s when he was in his 20s. I am now 25 and have so much respect for older explorers and will always listen to what they have to say. I could not do it without today's technology (lights, o2 meters, etc...instead of lighting a match). Very impressive sir. Thank you, stay safe and may God bless.
I remember watching the first episode of ghost town living in the middle of the pandemic and just seeing the scenery was very nice especially when it snowed.
Same here, was a bit worrying when he got stuck in the drift! But look at where he is now ay!
I remember that too.. looked so lonely now it's alive!
Maybe someone can set up a gis database for tracking where you find stuff
Check the temperature today
It’s not so pretty at 120°
You have come such a long way! I’ve been watching when you first bought that town & put your first video out about it 👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻🙏🏻😇🥰💕
What I find so fascinating is how one person can have such an infectious passion that it ignites similar passion in so many others. One person, bringing a ghost town to life by basically crowd-sourcing enthusiasm, passion, excitement and genuine love for the project. Man... only a couple of weeks ago and act of nature that had the potential to break the spirit of many but what amazing resilience to roll with that punch and keep moving on and be upbeat too. I truly and genuinely hope to visit Cerra Gordo one day to check the place out and meet Brent!
Yes and No. From day 1 I've watched Brent, not only he prefers to be alone, only socially gets involved if it's for this town.
I get history and passion, projects, dreams, hopes, fantasy, time, money, BUT notice it's become more than this to him, it's consuming him as a whole. I am concerned for his mind set and health in the long run. Best of luck on Preservation but I'd rather him NOT become one as a rock like the rest .
U maybe have a point I analyze him, I even sent him some info on things if ne1 or either of you want to communicate with me, I'll let u know I'm I'm white male american and if u want to see my face I'll post a picture, I have a video of a fan I took for 10 seconds, with profil pariah el destierro, I didn't use tags so u have to type in at least video of a fan comment spot , and it should be a blue fan 10 seconds an a dirty floor an shoe shoe, but I call it comment spot pressing issues, so people can communicate, I'm going to eventually probably leave a book, they make too many songs about me, it's weird to see a music video and they feel you touching them some of my thoughts are physical, an I forget 5he video but they have 1 about possibly time travelers that take what they want have no respect, except over 10 yrs ago I knew some1 could possibly put graffiti of what I thought an did at 5he time qn I felt I could probably deal with it l, if it was all I had to deal with, but I have walked the street that to me what I was doing while doing it, I woke up from being tortured and finally the chainsaw chucking the back of my head flicked my eyes open and honestly even if it was severe and humorous to some1 I thought it was awesome t be awake an I knew some1 might screw with me an started out the garage door the guy I rented from was standing to the right of his girl backyard l, and he said I see it now, and so I started walking as they started walking, and se yelled t the dog but it was towards me, qn started saying what I thought, went front of the charity house some mom an daughter were talking shit kinda like it was hell, i was like this is like hell, I made it to the the kinda 1nce hippie coffee shop place, still same thing just add hipster wifi and a guitar and company any1 is welcome the pass is autonomy! Qn they give me money occasionally because they got a public tip jar ne1 can grab, I'm gad I only bummed 1nce in some time, but there is a chalk of a dead body outline a few houses away, and probably a symbol on 5he whops mailbox, it may have a circle if u look it means I was saying everything is good in that direction, I was sitting at the park the 50 had got an apc armored vehicle that looked like minion had sex with a hummer, I went in 5he place before, it's got that satanic time traveler gleam even in the bathroom, cops talked shite at me as left their initial sit downs like 20 of em, I asked 1 cop just to see what he'd say, can hear me think, and he chuckled and said no and I can't see what ur thinking either, qn I said maybe I shouldn't have asked a cop and we smiled and left, iwas sitting on 5he bench looked down, an there was the graffiti again, hadn't translated this 1 be4, it was same color red as bench just barely noticeable off, I can make people rich probably just by telling them things I would like some1 to talk to, I know an unusual amount I think I hung out with an alien younger than me started at 11, he knew everything but couldn't remember more often than what you'd deem possible l, he'd say word for word 3-7 hr stories never eleivating from 5he beaten path, only 1 time when I was like 12-13 did I wonder if he would go mad if I let em by reacting the wrong way some, but I had admit how mind-boggling 3ar5h shattering it would be even more to some1 thats obviously a genius l, he liked watching people get tortured and whacked tho, I woke up from his room one day I been working at long John's I did something I'd never do and just went upstairs and slept on his bed, probably at least 2 rooms weren't being used, maybe if u count parents room 3 of the upstairs kids rooms, guess u could hang in the addic, neways it was a red k, and I could see it had an up qn down arrow with no stick, I translated and was bothered they knew that I was gathering faith and decided to look only in front and behind isn't it I decided to let my soul occupy those areas instead of left an right cuz life was real crappy kinda, some people walked by the like idk 1.5 story all black f3ma cop black tank that kinda looked like it was ready for the Zombie apocalypse like sticks thru the wall was actually kinda a concept but there was no holes it was just higher up because of that mounted machine gun, a chick drove in I recognized her mighta worked Burger King or anywhere, she said I hope that's not for me. And even the coffee shop guy said what I had assumed earlier after the chainsaw was most pleasant dream, 5he guy kept sticking a toothpick in my left butcheek or leg and some like alien cactus if u got it out stuck to fingers, it wasn't as annoying as pulling out the toothpick ne he'd gravity stick it right back in, I couldn't wake up at all that chainsaw 5o the back of my head had to chuck bout halfway through, I ain't gonna lie it was one of the most amazing experiences I had, because I never hurt that much, he took like too screw drivers like nutters and sh9ved them both between 2 different ribs in a be4 dream and I knew better than to try to assume later they ditch some of the handicap, check out Harrison Bergeron, or Reagan speech is decent, and the fortress is probably as good as evil dead 2/3 crime does not pay!!
oh you have put into words exactly how i feel. i'm wishing and wondering how i can help. hahaha. but i'm older, limited in strength and endurance and live all the way across the county...and i've always disliked "desert type, western" aesthetics...but now i'm enthused.
@@sherilynl4038 if u Haven't seen the fortress yet, its kinda like a futuristic prison film, laser bars. But it's out in the middle of the desert, I liked being out in the desert, but I'm gonna get fd off neway I was living in the desert, I wasn't trained in the ways of rotting meat so j condemned most of the already rotting trailer house neways. My grany came and got me, I forgot to unset the traps I learned my lesson I lived on rotting rat bread never forget that taste and I didn't have service so I couldn't find out how to cook goat, besides told me to do it in a hole qn I figured there's a few holes!! With that plan, knee slap×)
@@blackmonday738 Even if eaten whole he would be dienhappy, cuz we can hide emotions. But damn this dude loves his life atm. All the ups and down. This dude shines!
Thankyou for letting a midday aged British science teacher vicariously live out his teenage prospector dreams
Awsome sunset and beautiful veiws across the lake 😅😅😅
We started a project in the Baja California Mountains almost 3 years ago, our family ranch had been adbandon for year so my wife ,my son and I decided to bring it back to life again, Hard work, Long drives,pandemia and crazy weather almost made us quit, one day I found your channel and you became part or our project...now we are almost done and the satisfaction of seeing our place almost finish we celebrate it each sunset...Coyote Blues Ranch .
Gracias Señor Brent.
PD ,I will be 67 on the 25 of september and for first time in many year I feel like having a fiesta..I earn it
Yes you have sir. Enjoy your special time with family and friends
Congratulations on bringing back a piece of your families and the local area's history. Enjoy your afternoon siesta's that you've more than earned! No mas de trabaho loco. ;)
On android phones (probably iphones, too) there's a setting that allows you to store GPS coordinates automatically of where a picture was taken. Just have to make sure you have your camera settings correct, and GPS (location services) is actually turned on.
I know it's just a small thing, but if you intend to make a habit of documenting all your finds from now on, having the phone do this for you automatically will save you hours, cumulatively.
Was going to say the same. Let technology work for you!
Iphones will store metadata as well, im sure accessing it is a pain in the ass but its there.
Just be careful about the tools you use to manage and store them, as it may strip that out. You can use IrfanView (free for personal use) to see the data. (Open IrfanView, open photo, press "i", look for/press "EXIF Info" button. If the button is missing, there's no EXIF data in the photo.)
Important information for Brent:
If not turned specifically off, iPhone’s default camera will store GPS in metadata, and you just need to swipe up on the photo to see on a global map where it was taken (also metadata can be automatically extracted later and even put into file name)
Also important advice: ether not turn off the camera during whole trip, or install an app, that keeps tracking satellites even if camera_is_off/phone_in_standby, otherwise the precision will be not good enough for your goal, because each time you turn on the camera, phone will reinitialize satellite tracking, and it will get a minute (literally) to catch up and find enough satellites for a half meter precision
GPS isn't going to do much when hes underground though 😁
I’m currently camping near Lands End in far southwest England, incredibly close to the ruins of tin and copper mines. I can’t think of a better way to spend a drizzly evening than to be in my sleeping bag watching a video about the progress of my favourite Californian ghost town that grew because of mining. Thank you Brent 😊
I've heard of Roads End but not Lands End ( except as an American clothing store)
I was going to reply to this comment and say I've always wanted to go there, then saw your last name. Maybe we're related lol
If you ever can go camping in upstate NY/Vermont area. The area around Lake George, NY is beautiful
Definitely goto Trevose Head if your nearby loads of Fossils to be found on the coastline especially near the coastal waters by the lighthouse, still have a few ammonite fossils I found when visiting as a kid
I'm with you,I'm doing the same,but in Leadville,Colorado,us,nothing better than being by great lands and watching g.t.l,have a great camping trip!
Some would say that it's in Cornwall, not England. ;-)
In saloons, two bits were good for two drinks, a good cigar or a “smile” (a 2 ½-ounce bottle of whiskey). A cheap cigar or beer was 5 cents and a game of pool was usually 2 ½ cents. When a customer ordered a 12 ½-cent drink and paid with a quarter, he had the choice of receiving a dime in change or a token for another drink at 12 ½ cents. He would rarely pass on that second drink. Since the token was only good in that particular establishment, he hung around and spent his token, and probably a few more quarters as well. If a token wasn’t redeemed, the proprietor made even more money, as it only cost him 2 to 4 cents to have one made.
Grouse
Cool knowledge!
Thank you for the information on the coin! I'm sure Brent appreciated it!🍺😎🍺
Would you have those drinks before or after you walked 15 miles to school in a snow storm? LOL. Joking, I'm getting up there myself at 61. What decade are those prices for, the late 1800s? I really am curious. 🤔👍
So gay to call it a "sMiLe"... Lousy drunks with their ignorant sentimentality
Late to the show and I am sure someone already said this but the lock is a railroad switch stand lock. The hole at the bottom is for a chain. Keys are still available for them. I have several locks and a number of keys.
I think it's safe to say that Cerro Gordo is no longer a "Ghost" town. It is alive and it has a beating heart and its name is Brent Underwood. Thank you for pouring your soul into this project and bringing us along on the journey. Every dream begins with a dreamer...Keep dreaming Brent.
Well said …
Its still technically a ghost town
I’m an archivist. Organizing documents, artifacts, etc. is my job. One thing that any archivist, historian, or archeologist will tell you is that an object’s provenance (info about where/when an object was found, who found it, etc.) can be incredibly important when it comes to understanding the object, what it might have been used for, what it’s historical context is, etc. Your new understanding of and enthusiasm for documenting the provenance of objects at Cerro Gordo is fantastic and makes me really happy to see. Keep up the good work Brent!
Shout out to the county for helping Brent out so fast, many of us appreciate it more than you know. ❤
Certainly better than when I lived in the Inyo/Mono area. The local Government was a joke back in the late 70s - early 80s (when I lived in the area, Mammoth Lakes) as far as getting things done. With ever changing regulations they were scared to start anything in fear of the regulations changing suddenly. At least that's the excuse/reason they gave.
Question: What's the difference between a reason and an excuse? I'm still trying to figure that out. LOL...
Ghost town living has become my favorite show on UA-cam and TV.
Me too! I don’t miss anything!
Absolutely Me To Eric
Im glad your letting me tag alone i dont see well at all and have COPD im on oxgen so watching your videos allowing me to tag along is like being right along side for the adventure love it thanks again steve
though I had some problem with sea water It also ua-cam.com/users/postUgkxa-FNYUOM93a388gi9a4brtSCEVmrHgJH land for finding any things very easily. (thought it would work as normal due to it being water proof within certain parts of the detector), on dry land and sand worked well. My first one, so still have lots to learn
It’s good to see your happiness back in your eyes after the wash out. 😊
Thank you for your commentary at the end of the video. I’m dealing with illness. For three years I’ve not had a healthy day. Your pep talk And words of wisdom will help me I will help me get through yet another day. I love your videos and your mission at Cerro Gordo. My goal is to get healthy enough to one day come out and witness at all for myself
I've owned a construction company in southeast Missouri for many years, and the fact that you can get people to show up to volunteer blows my mind. Its next to impossible to find people willing to work in my area. Glad to see everything coming together up on the mountain. I've been watching since the beginning. Keep up the hard work man. It's gonna be well worth it in the end.
I worry about what he’s going to do when it’s illegal to use gas powered anything up there in CG since California is making everyone go electric. Lol crazy
@@ScottyDoesntKnow69 solar panels, and charging? having solar panels out there is probably a good idea as is. I mean, gas doesnt come from the sun like solar energy does.
@@ScottyDoesntKnow69 they are banning the SALES of gas vehicles you can still.use them just can't buy them anymore
@@messagedeleted1922 lol solar panels don’t run excavators or really much of anything. Technology is not there yet but the future is definitely not solar panels or wind panel farms.
They can use moonshine! You can run any gas vehicle on it and its fully renewable! Also if you break down you can drink your fuel to calm down.
As a fellow archaeologist in WA state, I would also recommend having a “virtual museum”. As your channel has reached people across the globe it would be a great way to showcase 3D models or close up photos of the artifacts you find. Each with a brief description, time, and location found. I’ve followed your channel since the start and I LOVE that you’ve gotten recognition from other archaeologists. I would also even look into the prehistoric record of the area. It would be so interesting to see how the land has changed over time depending on the people who resided there. We know the area you’re in was inhabited over 10,000 years ago. Your very close to Pueblo Grande. I would almost guarantee there is prehistoric artifacts and lithics (stone tools) on your land. I would recommend Janetski and Talbot (2014) “Archaeology in the Great Basin and Southwest.” A personal favorite book of mine is “The Chaco Experience” by Ruth Van Dyke (2007). Im out in the field often and always look forward to coming back to a video. Thanks for all you do Brent.
Maybe some of the artifacts can be dated through some of his videos with the help of the comunity
Many artifacts likely found and removed by the miners!
As a geologist from Belgium I second that. 😂
Also our local train station buildings got repurposed. One of the buildings is now decorated with a large reproduction of the architecture plans from the early 1900's. Neat decoration.
A few years ago very few people were aware of Cerro Gordo. Thanks to you Brent it is obvious that you have brought your ghost town into the future. Inyo county has also noticed the national and international exposure! most of it good! We believe in you Brent after the destruction of the floods this video brought hope and joy. Thanks for allowing us to join in your adventure.
May I suggest that everyone who's metal detecting have their location setting on their phone on and when they find something they can take a picture of it which will automatically GPS it. Also, they can stick an orange flag in the ground and once you fly over it with the drone you'll be able to also see the location of each item found. Maybe they could even scribble with the item was on the flag with a sharpie. Not that it would last that long but it would last long enough if you were confused you could see.
Another idea would be to place like a red dinner plate so that when the drone is up, multiple items can be seen from one snapshot giving an overall view of density of items.
Good idea
This is what I do when I metal detect in a large area. It has been very helpful in tracking where and what I find so I can go back or not go over spots.
My GPS unit includes date, time, location on pics...and doesn't lose cell coverage.
Bit of a problem under dense trees or canyon walls which prevent access to satellites, sometimes.
11:50 I think it'd be cool to find a picture of the town from ~150 years ago and have it printed on a big pane glass window (like an old glass negative), have that window placed at the location of the original photographer so as you look thru the glass, you could see where all the buildings were.
Great idea!
Very creative idea, that'd be a very interesting spot to see
That sounds incredibly cool!
Amazing idea!!😀
Awesome idea man
It’s definitely kept me going all year since Covid. Being able to check in on this every so often has been great fun - Thanks Brett from the UK 🇬🇧
I just want to say, that your perseverance makes me want to keep going. I currently feel tired, exhuasted; but we all feel this way. It's all part of the journey, thank you for your messages!
I am an Aussie and love watching ghost town living. love getting on google maps and checking out the area of Cerro Gordo hills and valleys. I love the passion Brent has for Cerro Gordo history
Hi Mat, I am also an aussie I live in WA. My son and I love these videos and everything Brent stands for.
You guys should visit
Me too... I go straight to Google map
☺☺☺☺☺☺☺
@@007nadineL I have all so been using google earth as it can give a little better picture.
@@Nessal83 I lived on the China Lake Base nearby for 7 years. The wind is a booger sandwich but you will never forget the Sunrise and Sunsets when you leave. If you are lucky you will get to see a bright golden/red one that almost fills the entire sky.
I do not live in the USA, have never been and very unlikely I will visit in the future but..... Ever since I came across Ghost Town Living I am eager to watch every new post, every new find It is so exciting for me, I can even believe I once lived there in my mind. You are very special person to me keeping the history of the USA alive and exciting for the new young and old "historians" who may help or visit you now and in the future. I so wish I could. Please keep up the good work for those who will follow.
Hey! I'm from the USA. If you're ever Interested in being pin pals, let me know!
Suzanne are from England 🇬🇧 by any chance?
I hope your wish to visit is fulfilled while you can enjoy it to the fullest. If you enjoy this channel there are a lot of similar locations in California. I lived there for my first 30 years on this world and now reside in Colorado. The biggest difference between the two states is Colorado doesn't have a Coastline, so no ocean surfing, but whitewater rafting is a close second. ;)
I’m watching from the uk 🇬🇧 and it blows my mind to see the love you recieve from all your countrymen and women. It’s awe inspiring and a testament to you for investing and bringing this place back to life well done mate you’ve done something that will be here when you are not …massive love and respect
I am currently studying archaeology, and I've had an interest in it for many years. Documentation is incredibly important, so I am glad to hear that you're making efforts to record the location of these artifacts
Good for you Luke
What I love about you is how you come across as genuinely humbled and amazed from the success you have had with Cerro Gordo. Your joy comes through the screen and we can feel it. Plus your respect for the history you are a caretaker for is inspirational.
Brent, I love seeing the natural beauty of Cerro Gordo in your videos, I love hearing about its history and the stories you tell about your experience in bringing it back to life, but mostly, I love the way you get thoughtful about things. The burden of dreams, the dog days of a big project... you are a true educator. So glad i found you out here.
The people who used to live in this town would be so amazed and proud of what your doing. This is super cool. Your whole process. been watching for awhile and it’s inspiring
I dunno they murdered each other a lot.
@@pokeybit actually?
@@Humanlettuce73 There was a fair few murders. It was the norm for the time though.
@@rasta4082 Maybe the presence of human life did in fact contribute to that disaster, yet laying your reptilian response aside do you not feel he has taken on the responsibility of that and is doing more than both you or I could ever do, to remedy an unfortunate situation?
@rasta deleted his diatribe bless. Thank you Rasta
Hey Brent, great video. As far a cataloging the stuff you find, I was thinking that you could get a GIS intern to set you up with an app from ESRI called Field Maps. I use it at work for exactly what you’re doing. Basically, you can catalog everything with your phone (pics, documents, etc) and it maps it, then places it into a database that you can use. It’s a great way to visualize an area and extremely user friendly. Just a thought that I’ve had watching your series. I majored in GIS at Sac State; there are a lot of GIS students looking for capstone projects and this would be a great one!
I was thinking the same thing: utilize local graduate students to accomplish these things
I love the way this project is bringing People together from all over ! Bret is like a modern day Huckle berry Finn :)
Cool
Awesome idea!
This is a great suggestion!
It’s so great when a plan comes together. Not having to wait 10 weeks for the road to be ‘fixed’ must have been like all your birthdays came at once. You have a very special gift of looking beyond what could have been a disastrous outcome and you can see that it has lifted your hopes and spirit. It was lovely to see all 100 metal detectorists and the joy on your face when they all brought in their booty. Worth its weight in gold to see you happy again. Take care, be safe. ❤️ Dorset, UK
HAPPY BIRTHDAY!🎂🎂
😂😂😂😂
You look like someone that is having SO much fun that they can't wait to wake up every morning. It's very inspiring.. and your life looks amazing. Thanks for sharing it with us.
Get a good handheld GPS receiver. Get a stack of 3X5 index cards and Consecutively number them in nice large figures. When you find something, put the card next to it and take your pictures. Save the location in the GPS as a waypoint using the index number as the name. Write any notes and such on the card. After you download the pics from your camera to your computer, rename the pic to match the index number. Rinse and repeat using a new card each time.
When you are done, you have a unique number for every item that you can use to find the location, find the pic, find the card with notes, etc. When the winter weather forces you indoors, you can spend a bit of time getting everything entered in a nice spreadsheet or database. If you label any item which you bring back with the number, anything in your museum that you pick up can be easily connected to date, location, pictures, notes, etc.
In short, treat the artifacts as inventory, the index number as a part number, and the entire property as a gigantic warehouse.
I would love to hear just the sounds of Cerro Gordo. Everything is soo peaceful there. I feel like the fact that you take such good care of everything the land gives back to you and slowly opens up to show you what it really had tucked away from everyone.
Socialism works.
Be cool if he did a live feed of just cameras setup around
lol :D
i mean, yeah, but where does that come from now?
@@jbb5266 Cerro Gordo ASMR when
Maybe when he gets that music studio going, they’ll have the recording, mixing, and mastering equipment to record and self-produce an ambient “Sounds of Cerro Gordo” album on the “Cerro Gordo Recordings” label, along with whatever else they plan to record up there…
I have to say, as Business major focusing on statistical modeling and information systems (databases, gps data, mapping software, etc.) the idea of the mines around Cerro Gordo being documented with LIDAR is so so exciting. Data is awesome!!
I like the way Brent centers himself often. "This puts everything into perspective" is such a great way to tackle just about anything in life, looking at things from both inside and outside of the box
Agree and you said it more to the point than I did
Thanks for continuing to share your life in that little town. It is beyond cool to see into the past the way you get to see it every day. I can't wait to have a stay in the American hotel one day. Keep on going Brent.
This one was deep. I have a level of respect for you not many earn. Thank you for your hard work and inspiration. I hear you. Thank you.
Me and my weld class at high school love you and everything you do! My students are mezmorized by you! Thank you for all you do💙
Back in the late 70s, I was hanging out at Picacho State recreation area near Yuma. The person who was overseeing the gold mine out there was really friendly with our group, and when flash flood exposed the remains of the assay office with its mining crucibles and cupels, he took us out there, and we had great fun finding these items, often in stacks.
Your closing statements touched me as I am over ten years into an engineering construction project, sometimes I feel like I take ant steps in a marathon, where a days work, or even a months work is almost nothing, when compared to the huge amount I still need to do. I don't have the energy I had when I began the project either, as now I'm closer to 70 years old than sixty, but it's true I would find it a lesser life if I were to live without my dream. So I will keep on pushing and I will get there somehow.
Embrace the suck!!!
When you’re in the middle of the maze you have no choice but to find your way out.
Your channel and videos are probably the only long videos I watch on UA-cam. I love history , ghost towns , and you put this stuff together so well and show the passion
I’m so impressed at the long term commitment you have dedicated to this project. Resurrecting a mining town of ages past is no small commitment! Godspeed in all you do out there in the desert!
I've been watching this channel pretty much since it started. I get excited when I see a new video is uploaded. Brent you sir are a an amazing story teller and please continue to upload these videos! I hope to visit someday and see this in person.
You look absolutely rejuvenated. Keep up the positive attitude, all will be well. Thank you for the video.
Beautiful and heart warming as always Brent. It is truly amazing the county was able to get equipment and operators free to get on the road so much earlier than originally expected. Someone knows the right people, in the right place, at the right time, and thankfully, they understand the importance of the timeline you are working with up there. Kudos to the county!
Your dedication and hard work are paying off. Even though it sometimes feels insurmountable, you are beginning the realize the power of the whole world pulling, praying and pitching in to bring back Cerro Gordo…to bring the history and the stories this community wants to tell the world.
Thank you for dreaming Brent. Thank you for wanting/needing to learn the history. And thank you for sharing it with the world. We are excited to see what each new video brings! Stay safe and stay healthy! ❤️❤️❤️
Woohoo so cool to see someone from my country able to help ❤ love from New Zealand
Thanks!
These videos mean so much to me. They give me inspiration to pursue my dreams. The scenery alone in these videos is breathtaking. And then you add to that Brent's inspirational words at the end of each video. It's perfect.
I had so much fun going up there for the metal detecting event. thank you again I love how much the town has come along.
its so beautiful seeing the amount of people that came to help you, this really shows that there is still hope in the world
Nah
The more you turn off the news. the more you will see this :)
@@emusunlimited exactly :), news only show the bad stuff happening because that it whats making them money
Ya tokenizing the wealth of America A.I. YA C.B.D.C is what i m talking about....
Listening to your stories and putting a prospective out there of your drive and all the volunteers to make this place whole again and left for the next generations is so heart warming. Thanks for hanging in there. Awesome video.
This whole thing really makes you think about just how hard it must have been and how long it must have taken to make the original road back in the day
When all they had was picks, shovels and dynamite.
@@wallacecallow2255mules and Fresno's... lol
It didn’t take as long as you would think, people work and harder and we’re far more determined in those times even though they had no modern equipment.
It was funny, at the beginning of the video when you said, "Guess what happened?" Or something like that? And the camera turns around to show the grader and other vehicles come to help fix the road. I was almost expecting to see "Big D" and his crew! Glad things are back under way. You're awesome Brett! Keep going, never give up!
FYI it’s “Heavy D” 😂 “Big D” is something quite different… or I don’t know, maybe not, but that’s Dave’s business, not mine 😆
@@AvanaVana
"Douche" perhaps? His money making scheme last year was deceptive.
@@randallsmerna384 With that crew, I personally had to click the “do not recommend channel” button on YT. I’m turned off by their hyper-commercialized content. IMO they’re just social media opportunists pushing garbage on people for quick $$$, also possibly to build a personal militia and weapons and materiel stockpile. It’s a little weird and scary.
I am really liking how you keep bouncing back after all the trials you have been given. never give up, you have so many people cheering you on
Happy to see you in good spirits again after the disaster!
I love the fact that you humanize everything you find. I think the same way whenever I find something that is, as my son puts it, from the "old world." You Chanel is worth watching.
I love that every video is like a mini history lesson. I'm glad the County could help sooner then they said they would, and I hope you (Brent) can get what you need done to the AH before Winter sets in upon you.
Hello BRENT !!! Brandon here from AZ. I've been following your channel since your 2nd video. It was a great pleasure touring Cerro Gordo last Friday. I was very pleased that you were able to take a few minutes to spend with me. Big thanks to Phil for giving my stepmom Cindy and myself the in-depth tour of all the amazing artifacts that you have recovered. It was also great to see/meet Scotty. The road was intense to drive up, to say the least. I am still amazed your little Toyota 2WD handles that road up. The county has done an incredible job of restoring the road. I will look forward to seeing the American Hotel come BACK TO LIFE --- Stronger and better than ever. I will try to return next year to see your progress on everything. Best wishes on all your future exploration.
man this is freaking amazing brent!! i really can’t believe how far everything and everyone has came! These videos i have watched over and over again because i just can’t get enough! The way you’re bring history back into this town is just absolutely beautiful man! need more people like you in this world brent! the smiles i see even when things are the hardest up there You are just a strong and kind hearted man! i really can’t wait to come up and visit you and be able to sit and talk about the mines and the houses and everything up there it’s such a beautiful thing that you’re doing brent! i’m only 16 years old and from NY i haven’t lived or really seen anything of this world due to money problems in the family but my biggest wish is to be able to come and help out and do whatever i can up there! again It’s a beautiful thing you’re doing brent! Can’t wait to come and see your beautiful town!
I would hope that Inyo County realizes that the rebuilding of Cerro Gordo will be a boon to tourism in Keeler.At
least,that is my hope for the town. So many people are now interested in the town that Keeler should be a jumping off point for CG tours. Vehicles that can easily traverse the 7 mile road will bring people who could not otherwise make the trip. I see a great opportunity in the future. Best of luck!
I thought the same just recently, that Cerro Gordo coming to life would additionally boost Keeler too
It's California you think they care ?? Really....
@@MegaBait1616 California isn't just LA and San Francisco.
@@Porty1119 , Know it well.. my family sold our ranch in the Central Valley after 118 years.. Fines for watering live stock, wouldn't let us rebuild our barn, homeless in our fields, illegal pot growing in our woods, illegals walking through the property, Anti 2nd. Amt., people saying we can only plow day time, cows smelled, no water, fires, fuel costs, electric costs, ect. So I do know California very well.. And the cities are shxxholes Now..
If the County was smart they would pave that road and help him build some concert and camping attractions, get the Mammoth drivers to pull in.
Thank you for sharing your beautiful home! You are are doing a great job of keeping history alive!
Hi Brent glad you rallied! My heart hurt for you after your last post. I’m a believer in everything happening for a reason. Glad to see you are feeling more optimistic and glad the county is available. Be well!
Brent, you have what my dad always said, "patience and perseverance". You have always endured. I am so happy things are rolling again for you.
On my bucket list of places to visit. Right up there.
Brent, continue being who you are, and people will continue to flock to you. Your dream is an inspiration to so many...you have a good grasp of the humbleness and respect for history and nature. Thank you for your persistence and drive. It's worth it. In more ways than you know.
I live treasure hunting. You are so lucky to have all that history. When I go to antique stores I always picture an item and the lives that once used that item. It's so neat to think about.
Those whom stand still. Will forever miss the future.
Hey Brent, long time viewer here, followed you from Day One, visited Cerro Gordo once in 2010, and was blown away. I've recently visited the Empire Mine in Grass Valley, and their visitor centre includes an incredible diorama/schematic display of the mines hundreds of passages. Its a large glass cabinet display and can be backlit. It gives you a very clear perspective on the numerous shafts, the depths they reached. Worth a visit. Good luck with the road, man, you have some bad luck, but I can't help but admire your never say die spirit and your sense of adventure. I know you'll come through and put Cerro Gordo on the map again! Namaste 😃
I just love how you can see your enthusiasm for this project when you're talking about it. Thats what it takes to accomplish a dream so big!
What I wouldn't give to spend a week or 2 in Cerro Gordo. You can almost feel the peace of the place through the TV.
P.S. Thanks for the origin of the 'Dog days'! I love little known knowledge like that!
Brent, Thank you for your videos. I am sincere when I say it is better than anything on TV and most movies. Your story, your insight, and positive attitude reaches people in ways that you can only imagine. The "Dog days" really suck. We HEAR your message and it is needed. You are making history. Keep doing what you do.
Should've asked Heavy D Sparks to give you a hand to rebuild the road!
The metal detecting even looked awesome! Uncovering so much history in a small area
Wow! Another amazing video. But I wanted to say, I love the community that supports Cerro Gordo. So much love and positivity. Obstacles are surmountable with support from the amazing community. Even Inyo county folks came through for you. ❤ It was so encouraging to see the monumental effort that it took to get the roads back in operation. You got this, Brent! Winter is coming and I am praying everything gets done in time.
This is the best channel on UA-cam!
I’d have never thought I could be captivated by a ghost town in America from here in the UK, but I am! Brent, your passion for the town, the mines and their history is infectious and captivating. I’ve added a visit to Cerro Gordo and a stay in the American Hotel to my bucket list.
Hello Brent, I’ve been following for some time now. You are quite a guy! Hats off to all your volunteers and contractors and contributors helping bring your dream to life. I’m not sure what aspect speaks to my soul the most: the scenery, the history, the archeology, the ingenuity (thanks David Sparks), the tenacity, or the philosophy. It’s all amazing, keep reaching for the stars.
That first video of you walking in the snow & getting a bit lost has always been one of my favourites 👍👍👍👍
Great to see how well you have done collaborating with people like Dave Sparks , don’t look back to often but always remember how far you have come. 👍👍
This channel makes me emotional in a excited for history in the fashion of how I like history presented kind of way. Mystery, always learning, exploring and imagining what things where like. I especially love it because growing up my dad and I would explore the Mojave desert for mines and cool rock and go dirt bike riding etc. love the channel.
I really appreciate your way of story telling !
Life is difficult and we often go through difficult challenges. We have to find the strength to go through them the best we can.
Have a wonderful day !
I’m so happy for you Brent I pray all your dreams come true ❣️❣️❣️
It's so beautiful out there! I'm super excited to see this vision come true and all the trials along the way make it that much more special!
Please be super careful when traversing washes, we don't want you injured ! Great news that you are recording your finds, this is similar to the way many of us record metal detecting finds in the UK as it helps identify 'hot spots'
I just shared this channel with 2 of my close friends. This is the type of thing we all dream of doing. Thank you for the videos, and hang in there when it gets tough, you are reminding people of how hard people worked to build this country and why it worth preserving.
Your words at the end of the episode really struck something deep with me.
I admire your passion and am grateful for your words. I wish the best for the future of Cerro Gordo.
Thank you for the updates ! Wish you well Brent!
32:34 - 35:44 this bit resonated with me so much. Because while I wouldn't say I had quit, I wasn't doing. And a couple years down the road it's difficult again. I've had some help recently that got me over that hump. I really love your story telling, and openness to share yourself and what you're going through. This is just another moment in your videos that has helped give me perspective. Thanks you for the motivation!
You've got this, Brent. I honestly despaired when you were up against the concrete problem. You kept at it, and worked miracles. Keep going! Excellent that an archaeology paper has been written on you, too. Have been having a bit of a sh**tty time lately, and your video is soothing my ravaged nerves 💗🌵👍🌼🌃🎈
Thank you for your words of encouragement, I just moved to another state across the United States and it's been hard I can't lie. And I do find myself panicking sometimes but I have to realize that I'm stronger than I think, I will pull through. I was having a rough day paying all my bills the past couple days but your words helped me clarify today that I'm in my right place. Thank you.
So happy the County is working on the road. Good for you moving forward despite the recent flood. I'm sure there are plenty more things to uncover in Cerro Gordo. Enjoying the metal detecting events.
this is an awesome project Brent - one day it'll be opened-up again - thanks to you!
We love you Brent. Keep your chin up out there, we're here with you.
Another great video Brent. Thanks for allowing us along on the adventure. Keep the faith mate 👍🇦🇺
The spirits like what your doing so things are starting to reveal themselves... love ❤️ ...stay safe
You have an amazing office to work in every day . You have it made , not to underestimate how much work it is , when you love what your doing you’ll never work a day in your life. Food for thought yall !!!!!!!
How very true, I spent 37 years as a Children's Librarian, Loved going to work everyday and felt blessed to have found my path at the age of 17🤗
You mean the world to all of us all around the world🤗 I find myself with tears in my eyes so many times by the end of the video because you show us the true passion and love you have for Cerro Gordo and the surrounding beautiful landscape each and everytime.
I think you had some really awesome treasure you found, but the real treasure was everyone’s united contribution and enthusiasm to the whole project and event. This video really brought but me up from a low point. What a fun journey it has been following along! Stay safe out there 🍻
Congrats on the county coming through for you so soon. And I'm so happy for the community of volunteers you have. Glad to see you in good spirits.
you amazing dude, never give up, if I could Id drop everything in the uk and come and help for along as you needed,Remember to take breaks and appreciate the rest., modern day inspiration ❤ love from the uk
Your passion, determination and love for you home and the history of your home is so unique. I just love watching you and the way you keep forging ahead. Much love from Vermont.