[2] Most remaining structures are frame, two-story company houses on stone foundations.

The district also contains the well-maintained Central Mine Methodist Church, which is in nearly original condition.

[2] In 1854, John Shawson, an agent of the Cliff Mine, discovered native copper in the bottom of an ancient pit (apparently dug by Native Americans) several miles from Cliff Mine.

Between 1856 and between then and the end of the 19th century the company built over 130 structures for the mine and the community of workers.

[2] At the peak of production in 1868, the town of Central was home to over 130 people, primarily immigrants from Cornwall, England.