Atlantic City was founded during the same mining boom that created South Pass City. It became a solid community with the usual businesses and services, including one truly sophisticated touch: a cigar store.
Like its neighbor, Atlantic City was mostly dead by the 1870s, but a resurgence took place in 1884 when French mining engineer Emile Granier attempted to use hydraulic mining to tap the riches of Rock Creek. After an investment of $250,000, the project failed in 1902.
St. Andrew’s Episcopal Church is one of two excellent buildings in Atlantic City. This photo was taken in August 2000. The major change since then is that the church now has a ramp for handicapped access.
In 1960, United States Steel opened the Atlantic City Iron Ore Mine, which gave a modest rebirth to the community that accounts for several modern structures in town. That mine ceased production in 1983.
WALKING AND DRIVING AROUND ATLANTIC CITY
You might be a little disappointed when you enter town on Atlantic City Road. It lacks the charm of South Pass City because of many modern elements amid the historic structures—and a certain amount of clutter. The best building in town, and the center of activity, is the Atlantic City Mercantile, built in 1893 by German immigrant Lawrence Giessler of adobe brick with a pressed-tin false front. Within its current incarnation as a steakhouse and bar, you can examine the mercantile’s historic interior, complete with old photographs, various articles of antiquity, and a small museum. Also available is a self-guided Atlantic City tour pamphlet.
Another fine building is the 1913 St. Andrew’s Episcopal Church, which was carefully restored between 1965 and 1967. Inside is attractive wainscoting matching the wooden ceiling. Both the church and the mercantile are on the National Register of Historic Places.
A tiny private cemetery sits just west of Dexter Street on the west side of town. The public cemetery is east of town up on the hill as Atlantic City Road turns northeast toward Miner’s Delight.
WHEN YOU GO
To reach Atlantic City from South Pass City, retrace your route past the Carissa Mine for .6 of a mile and turn right. Atlantic City is 3.7 miles down that road.