Answer:
Many of those who went west sold most if not all of their belongings in hopes to make it rich in the golden west. However, as they came to know, even through their hardships and perils, few that made it out there struck richness. Instead, as they toiled in the sunlight, they slowly ran out of money and supplies. Those who were fortunate enough headed back east, or set up shop with what other skills they had. This is how most mining towns grew. Those with skill stayed and sold items to those who made it rich or at least livable, and the towns slowly grew from other settlers arriving.
In essence, those who did not make it rich either went back home east, or else stayed and tried to make a living through some other means.
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