Ruby City was a mining town settled in November 1863.[2] The town was the first county seat of Owyhee County and was born to serve the rich mines in the vicinity.[1]The Owyhee Avalanche, first newspaper in Owyhee County, started in Ruby City in 1865, but was moved to nearby Silver City just over a year later. The post office, which opened in 1864, closed in 1867.[2] In 1867, the county seat was also moved to Silver City, along with the better buildings and the end was in sight for Ruby City.[1]
Nowadays, only remains of a cemetery mark the town's location.[1]