Lone Pine, California: Monument And Mass Grave For 1872 Earthquake Victims

An 8.3 earthquake leveled the town of Lone Pine in 1872, killing 27 people. Most of them are buried together near a stone memorial. The upthrust block of the main fault that caused the quake runs right underneath.

Address:: 1435 N. Main St., Lone Pine, CA
Directions:: A little less than three miles north of the intersection of US 395 and Hwy 136, and just south of the intersection of Pangborne Lane. On the west side of US 395, just where the shoulder narrows. Look for the tiny sign, "Grave of 1872 Earthquake Victims." Park and walk up a short path to the monument and mass grave.

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Earthquake Monument.

Monument And Mass Grave For 1872 Earthquake Victims

The plaque on the monument reads:

"On the date of March 26, 1872, an earthquake of much proportions shook Owens Valley and nearly destroyed the town of Lone Pine. Twenty seven persons were killed. In addition to single graves 16 of the victims were interred in a common grave eclipsed by this fence."

The plaque laid before the flagpole, dedicated March 26, 1988, reads as follows;

"116 years ago this date, an 8.3 earthquake hit Lone Pine. People died. 16 are buried at this site in a common grave. Alice Meysan (family still resides in Independence), Manuel yBatera, Anthony Montoya, Maria Terrazonnna & her children. The rest of French, Irish, Chilean, Mexican, Native American ancestry are known but to God."

[Robert Page Jones, 05/05/2010]