This town, located near the western base of Argentine Pass, was originally called Decatur. It was named for Commodore Stephen Decatur who laid out the town in 1868. Due to low-grade ore and transportation problems, its growth was slow until 1879. That year, J.M. Hall discovered the Pennsylvania Mine that produced more than $3 million worth of ore during its time.

Soon 1,000 people were in the area, and Argentine experienced its greatest boom. By 1880 there was a hotel, the Sautell House.

Argentine Pass was built in the 1860s, and originally named Sanderson Pass. It existed as a toll road for more than a decade.

The Pennsylvania Mine was the best producer in the area. Peak silver production was in 1893, and in 1910 the mine produced 594 ounces of gold. The Mine and Mill (pictured at right) have stood up relatively well and are very interesting to visit. The trail over Argentine Pass is easily seen a short distance up the valley. It is not for motor vehicles, but a nice hike over the top will land you in Waldorf, another ghost town.

20 of Colorado's best ghost-town sites are discussed in My Favorite Ghosts: