Silver and gold were discovered in 1873 in what was to become Taylor, a typical mining community supported chiefly by the Argus and Monitor mines. In seven years, the own boasted a population of 1500 people, seven saloons, three general stores, an opera house, a Wells Fargo office and professional services. By 1886, Taylor was the center of le county activity, a social highlight being the annual 4th of July celebration.

Mining continued intermittently until 1919. Then a 100-ton cyanide plant at the Argus mine gave new impetus, ut production declined when the price of silver plummeted. World War II renewed mining activity temporarily, lore than $1 million in silver, gold, copper and lead had been produced.