Love Stories from Death Valley
Many people have fallen in love with Death Valley, drawn to its stark beauty and rugged, otherworldly landscapes. The vast expanse of the desert can be both intimidating and captivating, inspiring a sense of awe and wonder in all who visit. However, it's not just the landscape that has captured people's hearts. Throughout its history, Death Valley has also been the backdrop for many love stories, from early pioneers to modern-day adventurers. Each story is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit. Join us on a journey through time as we explore these tales of passion and perseverance in the face of adversity. Through the trials and triumphs of these couples, we glimpse the deep and enduring connections that can be forged in even the most unforgiving of landscapes. Here are just a few of the many love stories associated with Death Valley National Park.
ALBERT & BESSIE JOHNSON
Albert and Bessie Johnson were a couple who visited Death Valley in the 1920s and fell in love with the area. They were so taken with the park’s beauty that they moved there permanently. They built Scotty’s Castle and lived in the park for over 30 years, becoming known as some of the area’s most dedicated supporters.
CLARK GABLE & CAROLE LOMBARD
Lombard and Gable were both avid fans of the outdoors and frequently took trips to Death Valley and other wilderness areas. During one of these trips in 1939, Gable reportedly proposed to Lombard. Lombard reportedly responded with the playful quip, “Okay, Pappy, let’s get hitched.” They were married just a few months later. The couple reportedly frequently visited Death Valley during their marriage. This tale appears in various articles and books, but its origins are hard to trace. It’s important to approach such stories with a critical eye, as they may be embellished over time; an instance of Hollywood folklore.
MARY AUSTEN & JOHN HAYS HAMMOND
Mary Austin was a writer and poet who fell in love with Death Valley in the early 1900s. John Hays Hammond was a mining engineer who shared her love of the park. The two met in Death Valley and fell in love, although their relationship was often tumultuous. Despite this, they remained connected through their shared love of the park and its rugged beauty.
TIMBISHA SHOSHONE LOVE STORIES
As people who are not members of the Timbisha Shoshone community, we want to approach their cultural stories with respect and sensitivity. While there may be Timbisha Shoshone legends that touch on themes of love and relationships, it is important to note that cultural stories are often sacred and not intended to be shared outside of the community. As such, we do not feel confident in our ability to accurately and sensitively share their stories. Therefore, we highly recommend seeking guidance and permission from members of the Timbisha Shoshone community before sharing or retelling their stories.
LGBTQ+
LOVE STORIES
The LGBTQ+ community has been an essential part of the history and culture of the American West, which includes the region where Death Valley NP is located. Many LGBTQ+ people have lived and worked in the area, including those drawn to the region’s natural beauty and rugged landscape. Mining history in the American West has often been intertwined with LGBTQ+ history, as many LGBTQ+ individuals found acceptance and community in the rough-and-tumble world of mining camps and boomtowns. While the specific experiences of LGBTQ+ miners in Death Valley may not be well-documented, it’s essential to recognize their contributions and the challenges they faced and continue to face. While we don’t have any specific queer love stories to share, it’s important to recognize and celebrate the diversity of experiences and perspectives that make up the history and culture of Death Valley National Park and the American West.