Nestled in the heart of the Mojave Desert, Barstow, California, stands as a testament to the enduring spirit of American expansion and innovation. This vibrant desert city, Barstow, California, was officially founded in 1888 with the arrival of the Atchison, Topeka & Santa Fe Railroad, fundamentally shaping its destiny as a pivotal transportation hub. Even before the trains brought bustling commerce, the area had already begun to flourish, following the significant discovery of silver in the nearby Calico Mountains in 1882, attracting prospectors and laying the groundwork for a burgeoning community.
Early Foundations: Mining, Railroads, and Growth
The establishment of Barstow was a direct result of the westward expansion of the railroads. Named in honor of William Barstow Strong, the then-president of the Santa Fe Railroad, the town quickly became a crucial waypoint. Its strategic location on the Mojave River, coupled with its proximity to rich silver mines, positioned Barstow as a supply and transportation center for boomtowns like Daggett and Calico. While these mining communities eventually waned as their precious metal reserves depleted, Barstow demonstrated a remarkable resilience, evolving beyond its initial role to become an indispensable rail hub.
The early days of Barstow were characterized by the constant hum of industry. Trains brought goods and people, facilitating trade and connecting the remote desert outpost to the wider world. This period saw the construction of essential infrastructure, transforming a barren landscape into a thriving settlement. The future of Barstow, unlike its mining-dependent neighbors, was intrinsically tied to the permanence and expansion of the railroad, a factor that would prove instrumental in its long-term survival and prosperity.
The Glamour of the Harvey House Era
The Original Harvey House and its Successor
Central to Barstow’s early identity was the renowned Fred Harvey Company, which established a Harvey House around 1885. These establishments were legendary for their unparalleled service and quality, transforming rudimentary rail travel into an experience of luxury and refinement. However, disaster struck on September 20, 1908, when the original Barstow Harvey House tragically burned down. Undeterred, the Fred Harvey Company embarked on an ambitious rebuilding project, culminating in the grand opening of the Casa Del Desierto in 1911. This magnificent new hotel and restaurant once again offered gourmet cuisine served on exquisite china, catering to the sophisticated tastes of travelers traversing the American West.
A Hub of Hospitality and Social Life
The Casa Del Desierto was more than just a place to eat and sleep; it was the social heart of Barstow. Weary rail travelers found comfortable, luxurious rooms, while the iconic
