About Chloride
Chloride is an unincorporated community and census-designated place (CDP) in Mohave County, Arizona, with a population of 229 as of the 2020 census, down from 271 in 2010. Nestled in the Cerbat Mountains, 15 miles northwest of Kingman and near historic Route 66, Chloride is one of Arizona’s oldest continuously inhabited mining towns, offering a unique blend of history, art, and outdoor recreation.
History and Origins
Founded in 1863 after silver chloride discoveries, Chloride became a bustling mining hub by the late 19th century, with over 70 mines producing silver, gold, lead, and turquoise. At its peak in the 1920s, the town had nearly 2,000 residents, a railroad, and amenities like saloons and theaters. Named for the silver chloride ore abundant in the area, the town survived the decline of mining in the 1940s, transitioning into a quirky, historic destination. Chloride’s post office, established in 1873, is one of Arizona’s oldest still in operation.
Geography and Environment
Located at 35°24′52″N 114°11′57″W, Chloride covers 1.5 square miles at an elevation of 4,022 feet. Situated in the Cerbat Mountains, it offers rugged desert landscapes with panoramic views of the Black Mountains and Hualapai Valley. The semi-arid climate features hot summers and mild winters, ideal for hiking and exploring. The area has a low risk of natural disasters but moderate earthquake potential and high UV exposure, typical of Arizona’s desert regions.
Demographics and Economy
Chloride is a low-income community with a median household income of $32,500 and a median real estate price of $150,000, more affordable than 90.2% of Arizona neighborhoods. Housing consists primarily of historic homes, cabins, and mobile homes, with 75% of residents owning their properties. The economy relies on tourism, small businesses (antique shops, cafes), and art, with many residents working in nearby Kingman (15 miles south). The median age is 62.3, reflecting a retiree-heavy population, with ancestry including German (22.4%), English (18.9%), and Irish (14.7%).
Did You Know? Chloride stages mock Wild West gunfights on the first and third Saturdays of each month, performed by the Chloride Historical Society, drawing visitors for a taste of its rowdy mining-era past.
Education and Community Services
Chloride is served by the Kingman Unified School District, with students attending schools in Kingman, such as Cerbat Elementary and Kingman High School, a 20-minute drive away. The Chloride Volunteer Fire Department provides emergency services, and the nearest medical facilities are in Kingman. The community has a small library and a general store, with residents relying on Kingman for additional amenities.
Recreation and Attractions
- Historic Sites: Explore the Chloride Historic District, including the old jail, Santa Fe Railroad depot, and Tennessee Mine ruins, offering a glimpse into the town’s mining heyday.
- Murals and Art: The Chloride Murals, painted by artist Roy Purcell in 1966, depict desert scenes and mining history on boulders along a 1.5-mile trail, a must-see for art lovers.
- Cerbat Mountains Trails: Hiking and off-roading trails, like the Cherokee Loop, offer stunning views and access to abandoned mines (exercise caution due to open shafts).
- Route 66 Proximity: A short drive to Route 66 connects visitors to nostalgic stops like the Hackberry General Store, 30 miles east.
Lifestyle and Appeal
Chloride offers a rural, eclectic lifestyle with a low population density of 153 people per square mile. The average commute time is 20–25 minutes, typically to Kingman. The community attracts retirees, artists, and history buffs drawn to its affordable living, historic charm, and creative spirit. Annual events, like the Old Miners’ Day festival, feature parades and mining demonstrations, fostering community pride. Residents are accustomed to moderate risks of wildfires and extreme heat in summer.
Plan Your Visit
Reach Chloride via U.S. Route 93 from Kingman (15 miles south) or Interstate 40, exiting at Santa Fe Ranch Road. Wander the historic streets, admire Roy Purcell’s murals, or catch a mock gunfight. Explore nearby Cerbat Mountains trails or take a short drive to Route 66 attractions or Las Vegas (90 miles northwest). Chloride is a captivating destination for those seeking a quirky, historic escape in Arizona’s high desert.