Shoshone

Shoshone. . Located at Metbury Spring on the Tonopah and Tidewater Railroad, Shoshone was founded in 1910 by Ralph Jacobus "DAD" Fairbanks. After the collapse of the mining camp of Greenwater (approximately 20 miles northwest of here), "DAD" Fairbanks came to Metbury Springs hoping to capitalize on the increased traffic through the area brought about by the railroad. Fairbanks, his sons and his son-in-law, Charlie Brown, moved the salvagable buildings and scrap from Greenwater to his new town of Shoshone. The town quickly prospered and soon a store was opened as well as an eatery for passengers on the T&T. In 1919 "DAD" moved on, leaving the operation of the town to Charlie Brown and his wife Stella. Shoshone continued to grow, adding a restaurant and two motels. Charlie Brown became an important figure in the region as well, representing Inyo, Mono and Alpine counties in the California State Senate. Upon his election, Charlie Brown handed management of the town over to his daughter and son-in-law, Bernice Brown-Sorrells and Maury Sorrells. Even after the Tonopah and Tidewater Railroad discontinued operations in 1941, Shoshone continued to be an important hub in the eastern Death Valley country, serving travelers on highways 127 and 178. The town is still managed by a member of the Brown-Fairbanks Family and her husband.