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Swansea Mine Labor Housing: A Glimpse into Arizona's Mining Past

Step back in time and explore the well-preserved ruins of Swansea, a historic copper mining ghost town in the Arizona desert.

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Explore the ruins of Swansea, a once-bustling copper mining town in the Arizona desert. See the preserved adobe structures that housed the miners and their families, and imagine life in this remote and challenging environment.

A brief summary to Swansea Mine Labor Housing

  • 5594+WJ, Parker, Arizona, 85344, US

Local tips

  • A high-clearance vehicle is recommended to reach Swansea, as the road can be rough in places.
  • Bring plenty of water, especially during the hot summer months.
  • Wear sturdy shoes and watch out for rusty nails and other hazards.
  • The open mine shafts and tunnels are dangerous and should be avoided.
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Getting There

  • Driving

    Swansea is located approximately 25 miles from both Parker and Bouse, Arizona. From Parker, head south, crossing the railroad tracks just outside of town. Turn left onto Shea Road and follow the paved road for about 13 miles, then turn south onto a dirt road marked by a county sign pointing to Swansea. Continue straight at the four-way stop until you reach Swansea. From Bouse, take the main road east through town, which bends north and turns to gravel just outside of town. Stay left at the first major 'Y' about three miles from Bouse. Stay left at Midway and travel about 10 miles more until you reach a four-way stop. Turn right and follow this road into Swansea. Be aware that the graded gravel road gets rough for the last few miles, and a high-clearance vehicle is recommended. There are no entrance or parking fees.

  • Taxi/Rideshare

    From Parker, you can take a taxi or rideshare service like Uber or Lyft to Swansea. The drive is approximately 25 miles and will take around 30-45 minutes. Keep in mind that cell service may be limited in the area, so it's best to arrange for a return trip in advance. A taxi ride from Parker to Swansea would cost approximately $50-$70. Uber and Lyft prices may vary.

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Discover more about Swansea Mine Labor Housing

Swansea is a historic ghost town in the Arizona desert, a testament to the state's rich mining history. Founded in the early 1900s, Swansea boomed as a copper mining town, complete with an electric light company, a theater, a hospital, and even an automobile dealership. The town's population swelled to around 500 residents. However, Swansea's prosperity was short-lived. Poor financial decisions and fluctuating copper prices led to the mines shutting down in 1937, and the town was slowly abandoned. Today, Swansea is a well-preserved ghost town under the care of the Bureau of Land Management (BLM). Visitors can explore the remains of the town, including dozens of adobe structures that once served as housing for the miners and their families. An interpretive trail with posted signage guides visitors through the town, providing historical context and information about the various structures. The BLM has also put up new roofing over some of the miner's quarters to help slow down decay. While exploring, be sure to keep an eye out for the old railroad depot, two cemeteries, and several mine shafts. Please note that the open mine shafts and tunnels are dangerous and should be avoided.

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