First of all, it is interesting to note that the founder of Adin, Adin G, McDowell, was a member of the prospecting party that discovered gold in what would become known as Hayden Hill.
In the summer of 1870, once the word spread of the gold discovery at Hayden Hill, it was reported over 500 prospectors rushed there. Adin, located twelve miles north of Hayden Hill was the nearest community and this influx accelerated Adin’s development. Of course, Hayden Hill, went through many boom and bust cycles, and that too had an effect. on Adin. One of those glory times occurred in 1878 with a bustling Hayden Hill. This allowed Adin to flourish and for a period it was Modoc County’s largest community.
Another way Adin benefited from Hayden Hill was during the winter months. Winters can be harsh on Hayden Hill and many sought comfort at Adin, which was not only substantially lower in elevation, but was more protected from the wind, than the exposed Hill..