Gold Point was initially called Lime Point for lime deposits found in 1868. Processing difficulties in the 1880s discouraged local silver mining. Goldfield ore discoveries in 1902 stimulated mining interest in the area, and high grade hornsilver was discovered here in 1908. The place was renamed Hornsilver, and a typical mining camp developed with a newspaper, post office, stores, and saloons, while a town of more than 225 wood-frame buildings, tents, and shacks appeared. After 1930, the camp assumed the name Gold Point when more gold than silver was being mined. In October 1942, miners were drawn away to essential World War II industries, and major mining efforts at Gold Point ceased.