Tragedy Strikes In The Ghost Town of Cerro Gordo

Around 2am June 15th, 2020 the American Hotel burned down at Cerro Gordo.⁣

The American Hotel was the crown jewel of Cerro Gordo. It was my favorite building. It was almost everyone’s favorite building. You couldn’t take a picture of Cerro Gordo without the American Hotel. It’s where we gathered, laughed, entertained, and basked in an iconic piece of American history. It was a place I couldn’t wait to show off visitors when they came. I even would sketch the front of the building when I wasn’t there, thinking of it.

I’m beyond devastated and haven’t really slept since but did want to get an update out.

The cause is believed to be faulty electric and/or rodents by an electrician we had out today. The buildings up here are extremely old and the wood very dry and fires have always been an issue.⁣

[codexaeterna]

My heart hurts at this loss. The hotel seemed so rich in history and character, and it only took an hour for it to vanish. I wish you the best of luck in rebuilding.

[mattingray]

Heartbreaking, man. The hotel has a lot of historical stuff and can NEVER be replaced.

[prachisaxena]

I haven't felt my heart sink like this at a caption before.. glad to know you are safe. Your hard work and videos have made this part of history immortal.we all love and support you! Big hug!!

[robertlarson]

Came back to watch this, now that the rebuilding has finally begun. It hurts to see how much was lost, but it's so inspiring to know that it'll be back soon.

[reychano]

I live roughly 4 hours away man, if I can and I will, I’ll dedicate every other weekend or even longer if I can to come help, you just let me know and I’ll do my best!

[MizPersnicket]

I'm so sorry. What a terrible loss. I'm glad you're physically okay.
I hope you are taking care of yourself, you are looking thinner. I don't normally comment on this sort of thing but it's concerning.
Sending you major mojo. Xo

[DashCamJournalsPH]

Stay strong and positive, you'll get through this. Keep safe.

[anothergone]

I'm back watching this after watching the live stream of the new hotel basement being DONE! It's been such an amazing journey watching this happen. I found you a year ago. And every video I watch feels like being part of history. What you're doing, with the help of the outstanding community, is amazing. I live about 7 hours away from Cerro Gordo. I am 100% going to visit.

[brooks]

Just so grateful you were in a safe place when this tragedy struck

[coastalbushrustique]

Thank god you didn’t have a hotel full of family, friends or guests when that dodgy wiring started an inferno when they all would have been asleep.... a blessing x

[yammydodger]

I stumbled across your vlogs by accident and have become fascinated with Cerro Gordo, you have a huge passion for the town and it's history, it's heartbreaking to see this happen, i live over in the UK with 30yrs experience in the construction industry, i wish i could get over and help rebuild this fantastic place.
Stay safe and strong.

[howardrodgers]

So sorry about the fire. Mama always told what doesn’t kill makes you stronger. I will be praying for you and help when I can.

[BeccaBlah]

Im sorry this happened, your reaction to it broke my heart, its obvious how much you love this place and how much of yourself you put into it. Keep strong ❣️

[sspRkk]

I'm a woodworker in Washington State. Dealing with a lot of reclaimed wood that has all the history my heart goes out to you.

I'll check out the links but I'd love to come down on vacation sometime and lend my skills!

Such a cool thing you're doing there. At the very least I'll be vacationing there as a guest.

[chillaxrelaxation]

I just discovered your channel and I can't wait to visit your town once it opens for guests. As heartbreaking as it is, I believe this is a blessing in disguise. Like a Phoenix, the hotel will be reborn from the ashes. Everyone wants to help, what a beautiful world.

[saphire]

im so sorry about what happened. You look skinnier man please take care of yourself as much as you can

[AmyLouiseYT]

One way to help is to allow the ads to run through. That’s how he will get the Ad Sense so he can put that towards the rebuilding of this beautiful historic town.

[genxguy]

I feel your pain. I had a cafe in Bali that took me 5 years to build and Covid killed it in a few months, Look through rubble, you might find a blessing. Stay strong brother #muchlove

[lisamaries]

Donated and shared. THANK YOU for reminding me exactly why we don't give up. I found your videos after my own personal tragedy and it was perfect timing. I will do my best to keep this getting as much attention as possible.

Strength, through adversity, is the truest definition of word. It is the most durable over time, & the best weapon against obstacles in the future.

Best of luck ♥️

[joedoakes]

You need to drill a hole on each side of the road about a mile back from the mine and install a heavy chain to prevent UNwanted visitors from UNscheduled visits, AND stealing anything they can haul out of there !