Page "Ghost town" Paragraph 33

The Antarctic island of South Georgia used to have several thriving whaling settlements during the first half of the 20th century, with a combined population exceeding 2, 000 in some years.

These included Grytviken ( operating 1904-64 ), Leith Harbour ( 1909 – 65 ), Ocean Harbour ( 1909 – 20 ), Husvik ( 1910 – 60 ), Stromness ( 1912 – 61 ) and Prince Olav Harbour ( 1917 – 34 ).

The abandoned settlements have become increasingly dilapidated, and remain uninhabited nowadays except for the Museum curator's family at Grytviken.

The jetty, the church, and dwelling and industrial buildings at Grytviken have recently been renovated by the South Georgian Government, becoming a popular tourist destination.

Some historical buildings in the other settlements are being restored as well.