In 1873, miners filed claims here, where three rivers came together, "Three Forks." It was later called, Forks of the Animas." Then it was just shortened to Animas Forks. Animas Forks sits at an elevtion of 11,160 feet. By 1875, Animas Forks was granted a post office. Located at such a high elevation, Animas Forks suffered from severe winters. Avalanches and extreme isolation were the norm as the winter dragged on. Due to the extreme conditions, most miners and other townspeople left for the winter and returned the next spring. As the mines played out, the mining had nearly ceased by 1891. Then in 1904, The Gold Prince Mill was built and the town experienced a short lived revival. At this time, Otto Mears extended his Silverton Northern Railway to Animas Forks. The Gold Prince Mill lasted until 1910 and closed. By 1915, the post office was also closed. The town again was a ghost.
Today, many building still stand, many in great shape. The Duncan residence is among one of the most often photographed structures at any ghost town in the west. This town is defenitely worth the trip.
Start in Silverton and take Highway 110 east (hardly a highway). Continue on to Howardsville. Continue on as it becomes 2 Road. It is 4 miles north of Eureka. It is about a total of 12 miles notheast of Silverton.
