Zzyzx is truly an intriguing place with a peculiar history. Located in California’s Mojave Desert, Zzyzx was a temporary community founded by self-proclaimed radio healer and minister Curtis Howe Springer in 1944. He chose the unusual name, Zzyzx, because he wanted his community to be the ultimate in health and wellness.

Springer claimed to have discovered therapeutic mineral springs in the area and used this as a lure to attract people seeking healing and rejuvenation. He built a complex with a spa, hotel, and other buildings designed to promote his vision of health and wellness. However, there was no scientific evidence to support his claims, and Springer was eventually evicted from the property for squatting.

After Springer was evicted, the property came under the control of the U.S. government and is now part of the Mojave National Wildlife Refuge. Today, visitors can see the ruins of the buildings that once housed the Zzyzx community, which have become a curious landmark in the California desert.

A city is born

Creating a city is a massive undertaking that involves a variety of processes, from land acquisition to urban planning, infrastructure, economic development, and public services. Here are some key steps in the city-building process:

1. **Site Identification**: Choose a suitable location with access to natural resources, transportation, and potential for urban development.

2. **Land Acquisition**: Acquiring land needed for the city, usually through purchase or legal process of appropriation.

3. **Urban Planning**: Develop a master plan that outlines the layout of the city, including residential, commercial, industrial zones, green areas, infrastructure, etc.

4. **Infrastructure**: Build basic facilities such as roads, electricity, drinking water, sewage, telecommunications and emergency services.

5. **Economic Development**: Attract investment and businesses to drive the city's economic growth, creating jobs and opportunities for residents.

6. **Public Services**: Establish essential public services such as education, health, public safety and waste management.

7. **Local Government**: Establish a local government structure, including creating laws, regulations, and institutions to govern the city.

8. **Community and Culture**: Foster a cohesive community and promote a unique cultural identity through events, cultural programs and public spaces.

9. **Legal Registration**: Comply with the legal and bureaucratic requirements for the incorporation of the city before state or federal authorities, if applicable.

10. **Sustainable Growth**: Plan and manage urban growth in a sustainable way, considering long-term environmental, social and economic issues.

While these are general steps, each city founding process is unique and may vary depending on the location, local laws, and specific circumstances.

The End of Zzyzx

After Curtis Howe Springer was evicted from the Zzyzx property for squatting, the area was acquired by the U.S. government and incorporated into the Mojave National Wildlife Refuge. Since then, the abandoned buildings and ruins of Zzyzx have become a curious attraction for visitors to the California desert.

Although Zzyzx as a planned community came to an end with Springer's departure and subsequent government intervention, its unique history and unusual name remain a part of the local history and culture of the Mojave Desert. The ruined buildings of Zzyzx are now part of the historic site and are protected as part of the nature preserve.