A silver-bonanza couple: Jim and Belle Butler
Jim and Belle Butler in Tonopah

Hanging out proud and prosperous at the Oddie Avenue/Main Street intersection

Jim and Belle Butler made some of the richest silver strikes in Nevada history (see Historical Marker Database). The Jim and Belle Butler monument in Tonopah—memorizing this lucky pioneer couple—was dedicated by Tonopah citizens in May 2017. The marker at the site of the metal-built sculpture next to the Tesla Charging Station on Main Street summarizes the Jim and Belle story:
In May 1900, Jim and Belle Butler came prospecting from their hay ranch at Belmont to stake the claims that gave rise to Tonopah. This was the first silver bonanza of the 20th century. It prompted a mining renaissance and this heritage is Tonopah's greatest attraction, along with good food, lodging and all necessary services.
The marker also tells us that the monument was designed and built by local artist Adam Skiles. Statues created by Skiles, depicting local heroes and war veterans, have been installed in various places around Tonopah (see “Making New Mark” section).
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In and around Tonopah