Pioche’s Boot Hill

A mining town from the late 1860s, Pioche is one of the most intact historic communities in Southern Nevada. Named for Francois L.A. Pioche, a San Francisco financier who, with partners, acquired some of the earliest claims in the area, the town grew quickly. Its isolation led to a lawlessness which was as famous as its mines.

The many murders in the area led to the creation of Boot Hill, the earliest cemetery in Pioche. There were six deaths from lead poisoning in the town before the first person died of natural causes, and this cemetery was in active use during the boom years. Though religious and fraternal cemeteries were later created, Boot Hill continued to be used for many years. Though in use today, Boot Hill remains a part of the history of Pioche. Let us not forget those who are buried here, for they too are a part of our heritage.

Dedicated this 9th day of May, 2009
by the Queho Posse Chapter 1919
E Clampus Vitus
in cooperation with the Pioche Chamber of Commerce

• E Clampus Vitus Historic Markers
• Boot Hill Cemetery

The Railroads of Pioche

Railroads were the best option for moving ore in the nineteenth and twentieth centuries. For the mines of Pioche, four railroads eventually served the area.

The first was started in 1872. Originally called the Pioche and Bullionville, it was reincorporated as the Central Nevada Railroad in 1873, and renamed the Nevada Central, though not related to the railroad near Ely. It went out of business in 1880.

In 1889, the Pioche Pacific Transportation Company, known as the Jackrabbit Line, built a new narrow-gauge line. The Pioche Pacific connected with the Jackrabbit Mine to the east. It did not finally close until 1948.

Next was the Caliente & Pioche Railroad. It was built by San Pedro, Los Angeles, and Salt Lake Railroad starting in 1907, and connected Pioche to the outside world. It became part of the Union Pacific.

The final Pioche railroad was the Price Consolidated Railroad which began constructed in 1912. It too became part of the Union Pacific in 1940.

This plaque (located at Pioche Town Park at 186 4th Street in Pioche, Nevada) was placed by the Queho Posse, #1919 of the ancient and honorable order of E Clampus Vitus, with the Town of Pioche and the Pioche Chamber of Commerce.