The ghost towns of Nevada: Stunning photographs capture the eerie remains of once-prosperous frontier communities
The West was always been viewed as a new frontier for adventurers and fortune seekers who dared to leave the confines of the established East Coast colonies.
Whether it was religious freedom or the prospect of striking it big with gold, there were many persuasive reasons for people to move toward the uncharted territories.
The prospect of winning big was even more alive in Nevada than it's neighboring states like Utah and California as Las Vegas was synonymous with quick fortunes.
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Remnants of days gone by: A moving new collection of photos show abandoned towns in Nevada
Different era: The signage harkens back to another time
Irony: The looming gate is the only thing that stands in Metropolis (left) and the gate at the left is in even worse condition (right)
Back in the day: The rusted old car seems symbolically fitting for some of these deserted surroundings
Many of the westward explorers set up frontier towns that became their home bases, but now all that remains are a few decrepit structures.
A new collection of photos compiled by Buzzfeed give a glimpse into the hubs of activity that they used to be, but clearly are no longer.
One of the most marked examples comes from Metropolis, Nevada, where the name seems all but ironic as the daunting city gate stands alone in the non-existent skyline.
Black and white: The stark nature of the surroundings is highlighted by this photograph lacking color
Little church on the prairie: A number of people who moved out west did so for religious reasons
Decrepit: As people moved into cities, frontier towns became less valid options
Space: One thing that the rural towns had to offer was a great amount of land
Flashback: This outpost in Pioneer, Nevada is clearly no longer in use
On the railroad: Weeds have grown over the train tracks from lack of use
Fortress: Unlike many of the wooden structures in the Nevada frontiers, this one was made of long-lasting stone
Unexpected: This window provides a spot of light in an unexpected spot