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Finding the current value of your home takes effort. There are folks that like to take shortcuts and use the instant results on sites like Zillow, but these are seldom very accurate.

To find out your houses value call me, or for the do it yourselfers out there, follow these steps. You should find a house value close to reality. Just remember, there is no substitute for an appraiser. Even a Broker Opinion valuation only goes so far.

Here is a quick guide to try out at home.

Use my Arizona MLS - IDX to search the MLS and find homes near yours. Use the IMAPP system at Maricopa County to find data from the county assessor. Shake or stir.

Find comparables, or homes that are like yours that have sold recently. They should be as close in distance as possible from your own home. Not more than a mile, unless your home is built on a large lot. It is best is if the home is the same model as yours, in the same subdivision and build by the same builder in the same year. That is asking a lot, but I have to ask.

Recent sales in a market like ours really means 3 months or less. Finding homes that are under contract and those already listed helps determine competition. Look at the amenities of the other homes and compare them to your home. Do you have a pool or a three car garage? Did they?

Find at least 3 homes that are as close to your home as possible. The average price of these three is likely the value of your house.

There are lots of factors that impact the price of a property, so only use this information only to amuse your friends and family. When you really want to find the value of your house, give me a call. I will be happy to help you out.

Jerome is in Northern Arizona . It is in Yavapai County. It is located overlooking the Verde Valley in the Mingus Mountains on top of Cleopatra Hill in the Prescott National Forest. You can get there from Phoenix or Tucson by taking Interstate 17 north out of town. Continue up to the town of Camp Verde where you will exit and head west on State Highway 260. Then travel along on State Highway 260 to Cottonwood. Once you cross State Highway 89A, take State Highway 89A west and follow it up to Jerome. If you are coming from Flagstaff take State Highway 89A southwest out of town and travel through Oak Creek Canyon, Sedona and on up into Jerome.

Jerome is a unique town to learn about mining and to take in its small town charm. It is a town that began as a mining town. Today Jerome’s population is 400. The town sits at an elevation of 5,435 feet. It has a moderate climate. The low temperature in the winter is 30 degrees and the high temperature in the summer is 97 degrees. Jerome is an interesting town, in that it was designated a National Historic Landmark in 1967. Its homes and streets cling precariously to the sides of Mingus Mountain. You will find picturesque vistas, which attract both artists and photographers. The town became deserted after the mining stopped, but today it is making a comeback with tourism. Antique, craft and gift shops line the streets. There are also art galleries and boutiques.

There are some terrific attractions near Jerome. The Jerome State Historic Park is a great place to stop and sample what life was life for the famous copper baron, James Douglas. The Jerome Historical Society Mine Museum has a photo collection worth stopping in to take a look. The Gold King Mine and Ghost Town is a quaint place to browse through antique machinery. The kids will love the petting zoo. The Verde Canyon Railroad is a wonderful experience. Visitors will travel down the railroad lines viewing scenic spots and wildlife. This is a very popular attraction. Tuzigoot National Monument is an old Indian dwelling. This national monument gives visitors an opportunity to see the ancient culture up close through several hiking trails.

Jerome has so many outdoor activities. Dead Horse Ranch State Park is so close to town. This park has a variety of things to offer its visitors. You may go camping, horseback riding or even fishing. The Sycamore Canyon Wilderness Area is a 26-mile canyon perfect for hiking. This canyon is one of the most breathtaking spots in the area.

Spanish explorers were the first to discover the mineral wealth in the area. Yet, the rough terrain caused the rock to be hidden for many years.

Then in the 1870s army scout Al Sieber worked on claims in the area, but he later gave up his claims. In 1876, some American prospectors staked claims, on Siebers advise, but they couldnt raise enough money to make a go of it.

Then Eugene Jerome, a wealthy lawyer and financier came along and offered to back those who would want to mine. Thus, the name of the town and the United Verde Copper Company came into being. However, Jerome never visited the town. The town sits halfway up Cleopatra Hill, which is a part of the Mingus Mountains. In 1882, the United Verde Copper Company began operating and the town went wild. Good and bad times depended completely on the copper prices. By 1884, the cost of hauling the ore to the town of Ashfork had become too expensive and labor problems were becoming difficult. So Jerome put the mine up for sale. He was offering $300,000. Phelps-Dodge wanted it, but thought that they could get it cheaper because Jerome was going through tough times. Phelps-Dodge offered $30,000, which Jerome declined and instead sold it to William Andrews Clark for the full asking price. Phelps-Dodge made a counter offer, but it was a day late. Ironically Phelps-Dodge became the owner, only after much of the minerals had been mined.

In 1892, Clark built a narrow gauge railroad into Jerome from Chino Valley. Clark became extremely wealthy. He would anything in his power to continue to build his wealth. It was also during this time from 1897 and 1899 the town endured three fires. The fires destroyed businesses and homes. Yet, each time Jerome was rebuilt and went on growing.

Then in 1899, Clark decided he wanted to become a senator, so he ran in Montana and won. However, the Senate Elections and Privileges Committee would not seat him. Eventually he gave up after winning two elections. In 1914, Clark built a smelter in the town of Clarksdale at the base of Mingus Mountain, below Jerome. He also established a railroad line to the town.

Jimmy Douglas came to Jerome in 1912. He bought the Little Daisy Mine at the foot of Cleopatra Hill. After two years of trying he finally hit a vein. This became one of the richest ever found in America. The town went crazy. Everyone was making money. By 1929, fifteen thousand people lived in town. Jerome was one of the largest cities in Arizona . Saloons, gambling dens and brothels opened up. It was once reported that Jerome was the wickedest town in the west.

Years passed by and the minerals soon started to dry up. The stock market crashed and the Depression began and many of the towns residents left. The population dropped to 5,000.

William Clark died in 1925 and his fortune was left for his family to fight over. Eventually, Phelps-Dodge bought the operation in 1935. Jimmy Douglas died in 1949, after becoming a multimillionaire and mining out all that was there. During the towns heyday, the town produced over one billion dollars of copper, gold, silver and zinc during its 70-year active life.

Finally, the fall of copper prices and the closing of the Phelps Dodge Mine in 1953, Jerome became one of the largest ghost cities. The town started to disappear. It was during this time only 50 residents lived in Jerome.

Miraculously the town rebounded in the 1960s, when many retirees, artists and tourists started coming to Jerome. Jerome has endured a lot and has always risen from the dust.

The Jerome Historical Society Mine Museum opened its doors in 1953. It was created by the townspeople of Jerome, with the purpose of preserving the rich copper mining history of the Verde district. It is a combination gift shop and museum. Visitors will see a variety of interesting artifacts about the mining town. Paintings, tools, mineral samples and stock certificates help retell the towns past. A collection of over 1,000 photographs is on display.

The museum is open everyday from 9:00 to 4:30 pm, except Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Years days. The admission charge is 50 cents for adults and children under 12 are free. If you would like more information on the museum, you may call 520-634-5477.

You can get to the museum from Jerome by going to the corner of Main (which is also called State Highway 89A) and Jerome Avenue. If you are coming from Phoenix or Tucson you will take Interstate 17 north out of town. When you get to the town of Camp Verde, you will exit and take State Highway 260 northwest through several small towns and on up into Jerome. Then continue into town, when you get to the intersection of Main (which is also what you are traveling on, State Highway 89A) and Jerome Avenue you have arrived at the museum. If you are coming from Flagstaff, you will take State Highway 89A southwest out of town. You will travel down Oak Creek and through Sedona. Then you will continue on up to Jerome. Travel through town until you get to the intersection of Main (which is also what you are traveling on, State Highway 89A) and Jerome Avenue then you have arrived at the museum.

Jerome State Historic Park features the former Douglas Mansion, which has been converted into a museum. The mansion was donated to the Arizona State Parks in 1962 and opened to the public in 1965. The mansion was built on two acres in 1916 and sits regally atop a hill overlooking the Verde Valley. The 8,700 square foot mansion cost $150,000 to construct. The mansion served as a hotel for visiting mining officials and investors. It was also the home for Rawhide James S. Douglas and his family. Douglass became a multimillionaire when his Little Daisy Mine struck a five-foot thick vein of copper.

The mansions well-appointed interior and thick adobe architecture reflect the high-life experienced by the mining baron. Your visit will give you a taste of what life was like for the copper king. The marble paneled bathrooms, a built-in vacuum cleaning system (one of the first of its kind), a wine cellar along with the wide sweeping balconies, which can be seen many miles away.

The park has displays that feature local mining history and methods. There is a video describing the many changes that Jerome has gone through. A three-dimensional model of Jeromes mine shafts is upstairs in the mansion. Jerome was once one of Arizona s most productive copper mines in the area. Yet, during the Depression, copper prices dropped and Jerome fell too.

Outside the mansion there is a giant stamp mill and more primitive wheels used to crush ore. While walking around the grounds, you will also discover fabulous views of the valley below. Jerome State Historic Park is situated on three areas at an elevation of 5,240. There are placards at a variety of viewpoints identifying several of the landmarks below.

The park is open everyday, except on Christmas Day. Its hours are 8:00 to 5:00 pm. Admission into the park is $2.00 for adults and $1.00 for children between 12-17. The park has restrooms and a picnic area. If you are interested in learning more about the park, you may call 520-634-5381.

You can get to Jerome State Historic Park from Jerome by taking State Highway east out of town. It is just below the town. If you are coming from Phoenix or Tucson you will take Interstate 17 north out of town. When you get to the town of Camp Verde, you will exit and take State Highway 260 northwest through several small towns and on up into Jerome. You will see the signs for the park, before you get to town. If you are coming from Flagstaff, you will take State Highway 89A southwest out of town. You will travel down Oak Creek and through Sedona. Then you will continue on up to Jerome. Before you get to Jerome, you will see the signs for the park.

The Gold King Mine was once Haynes, Arizona . In 1890, the Haynes Copper Company dug a 1,200 foot shaft. The company was in search of copper, but that wasnt what they found. Instead, they found gold. When the gold dried up the town was abandoned.

Today, you will find many interesting sights and activities at the mine. When you arrive you will go through the gift shop and on into the mine area. You may take a walk in the mine and see demonstrations of antique mining equipment. There are displays of antique trucks and a tractor collection. Visitors will see the worlds largest gas engines. If you are interested in gold panning, there are lessons given for a fee. The kids will enjoy the petting zoo.

The Gold King Mine and Ghost Town is open everyday from 9:00 to 5:00 pm. Admission is $3.00 for adults, $2.00 for children 6 to 12 and $2.50 for seniors over 65 years of age. There is parking ample and restroom facilities available. If you would like more information on the mine, you may call 520-634-0053.

You can get to the Gold King Mine and Ghost Town from Jerome by traveling one mile north of Jerome on State Highway 89A to Perkinsville on Forest Road 72. If you are coming from Phoenix or Tucson you will take Interstate 17 north out of town. When you get to the town of Camp Verde, you will exit and take State Highway 260 northwest through several small towns and on up into Jerome. Continue through the town and proceed one mile past Jerome toward Perkinsville on Forest Road 72. You will see signs for the mine. If you are coming from Flagstaff, you will take State Highway 89A southwest. Continue through the town of Sedona and proceed one mile past Jerome toward the town of Perkinsville on Forest Road 72. You will see signs for the mine.

Superior is in Central Arizona . It is in Pinal County. Superior is in a mountainous setting. There are many imposing peaks such as Picket Post, Apache Leap and Iron Mountain soaring 6,056 feet. The town is located on U.S. Highway 60, at the junction of State Highway 177. It is 60 miles east of Phoenix.

Overview:
The rugged mountains surrounding Superior cause one wonder, just how could copper ever be found in this harsh terrain. Copper mining made this town. Today Superior has a population of 3,485. The town sits at an elevation of 2,882 feet. The warm southwest climate has a winter low temperature of 43 degrees and a summer high temperature of 97 degrees. The scenery is superb with dramatic formations and rocky pinnacles. Visitors will enjoy learning about the history of the area, along with visiting the nearby arboretum.

Community Features:
Superior features several attractions. The Boyce Thompson Southwest Arboretum is only four miles from town. The arboretum is world famous for its collection of 10,000 desert cacti, flowers and trees. The 350 acres contain rare beautiful plants and flowers with special attention given to the southwest flora. You won’t want to miss a tour of Picket Post House. This is the mansion built by William Boyce Thompson, the copper magnate in the 1920’s. The mansion is listed on the National Register of Historical Places. The arboretum’s location on the edge of Picket Post Mountain makes it a perfect setting for plants. The Superior Historical Society has created the Bob Jones Museum. The museum is inside the home of Bob Jones, who was Arizona ’s sixth governor.
You will enjoy the outdoor activity near town. Oak Flats Campground is east of Apache Leap Mountain. It is a great spot for campers, hikers and rock climbers. The campground offers picnic tables, grills and pit toilets. There is no water available at the site. Oak Flats is located four miles east of Superior on U.S. Highway 60, then turn onto Magma Mine Road.

History:

Many were in search of silver in the late 1800’s. There were rumors that the area around where Superior is today was an excellent place to look. Then in 1870, silver was discovered and the Silver King Mine was established. The Silver King became the richest silver mine in Arizona ’s history.
This caused more to prospectors to look for the precious mineral. During a search in 1880, an outcropping was found near Superior. The ore wasn’t as rich as the Silver King Mine, so the mine was named the Silver Queen.

In 1900, George Lobb arrived in the area. He laid out a town and called it Hastings. At this same time, there were many mines scattered in the hills around Superior. Hastings was a central location to most of these mines. One influential mine located near town was the Lake Superior and Arizona Mine. The mine was named after its investors living in Michigan. Lake Superior and Arizona Mine boosted the economy and increased the town’s size. So in the mine’s honor, the town changed its name from Hastings to Superior. Lobb became the first postmaster of Superior in 1902.

In 1912, Boyce Thompson bought the Silver Queen Mine and established the Magma Copper Queen. His mine discovered that underneath the silver cap was copper. The Magma Copper Queen Mine soon became a great copper producer. A narrow gauge railroad was built in 1914. The Magma Arizona Railroad was once the longest steam operated common carrier in the United States. Later, a smelter was constructed in 1924.

Boyce Thompson began to build his 26-room mansion in the nearby foothills of Picket Post Mountain in the 1920’s. He also developed the land around his home. Today, visitors can tour Boyce Thompson Arboretum where more than 1,500 species of plants from all over the world thrive.

The mine remained in operation for 47 years. Then in 1971, the Magma Copper Company smelter closed and later in 1982, the mine closed its doors. The Magma Copper Queen Mine had taken out $25 million worth of copper ore. However, the mine did reopen in 1990 and has a number of employees.

There is a legend still told in Superior. It is about the Apache Leap Mountain, which is located on the eastern side of Queen Creek Canyon on U.S. Highway 60, east of town by the Queen Creek Bridge and Tunnel. The story began in the 1870’s, when a group of 75 Apaches warriors were cornered at the top of the mountain by the cavalry detachment from Camp Pinal. The Apaches did not want to surrender. Unwilling to face the humiliation of surrendering, they leapt from the mountain to their death on the rocks below. Visitors traveling by will see the mountain face is streaked with red. The legend doesn’t end there. Upon hearing of the deaths, the Apache women became so upset that they cried tears that turned to stone. Today, there are black, pearly stones that can be found nearby. These stones have been appropriately named “Apache Tears.”

The town of Superior was incorporated in 1976. Today Superior has mining, trade and service as influences on the economy. Tourism is becoming a bigger part of the town.

The Museum of Northern Arizona is the best place to visit and learn about the Native American cultures of Northern Arizona . The museum is internationally recognized for its research on the Colorado Plateau. The Plateau includes Northern Arizona and the Four Corners region taking in the Grand Canyon, Bryce and Zion National Parks, along with the Hopi and Navajo Indian Reservations. The museum is devoted to the geology, anthropology and fine arts of the area. One of the most popular exhibits at the museum is the “Native Peoples of the Colorado Plateau”, which shows the development of the people from the Anasazi to the Native Americans of today.

The museum was constructed in 1928 to house the galleries and ever changing exhibits. The Exhibit Building covers nearly 13,000 square feet. Children will enjoy seeing the life-sized model of Diloposaurus, a carnivore dinosaur, who once roamed Northern Arizona . There is something that will interest all who come to visit. During the summer, the museum has demonstrations and dances done by Native Americans.
This is a must see, if you are in the area at this time. You will want to call in advance to find out exact times and events.

The museum boasts a reproduction of a Hopi kiva. The kiva is a circular meeting room. The kiva has a loom and rug making display, along with information about the native people who used the kiva. The gift shop has numerous authentic Native American art pieces for sale. There is a large selection of Indian arts, books and other items that will remind you of your visit. Outside the museum there is a half-mile nature trail, which takes you along a creek and a canyon rim.

The Museum of Northern Arizona is open daily from 9:00 to 5:00, except on New Year’s Day, Christmas and Thanksgiving. The cost of admission is $5.00 for adults, $4.00 for seniors over 55, $3.00 for students with an ID, $2.00 for children ages 7 through 17 and children under 7 are free. You can find out more about the museum and special activities by calling 520-774-5213 or 520-774-5211.

The museum is located at 3101 North Fort Valley Road. You will take U.S. Highway 180 north out of Flagstaff for about three miles until you come to the museum on your right. If you are coming from Tucson or Phoenix take Interstate 17 north out of town to Flagstaff. Once you are in Flagstaff, travel through town on Milton Road and continue heading north on Humphrey’s Road/Fort Valley Road or U.S. Highway 180 to the Museum. The museum will be on the left side of the road, approximately two miles from downtown Flagstaff.

Almost 100 years ago, geologist Daniel Barringer developed a theory. He believed that a meteor had slammed into earth and created the crater just outside of Flagstaff. Those around him did not agree. They felt that the area around Flagstaff was known for its volcanic activity. A volcanic eruption was a better explanation of the crater’s creation. Barringer disagreed and staked a mining claim on the crater. He also began a search for iron and nickel, which he believed laid at the bottom of the crater. Barringer was partially correct about the crater. A meteor had created the crater, however the minerals he was in search of were never discovered. Today the Barringer family has opened the crater for visitors. You can see it for yourself.

Meteor Crater is a gaping hole in the ground, nearly 570 feet deep and more than 4,000 feet in diameter. This hole was made by a several hundred thousand ton meteor, which came crashing to earth at 40,000
mph, nearly 50,000 years ago. Meteor Crater is considered to be the best-preserved impact site on earth. The sheer size of this hole is hard to imagine. Try and picture a chasm deep enough for a 60-story building
and wide enough for 20 football fields. It is an amazing sight! The terrain of the crater is similar to that of the moon. This similarity interested NASA and in the 1960’s NASA decided to use the Meteor Crater for training. The Apollo astronauts used the crater as a practice ground for the moon landing.

At Meteor Crater visitors can see exhibits, movies and listen to talks about the crater. Meteor Crater’s Museum of Astrogeology gives a presentation on meteor devastation, along with the role it plays in the study of earth and space science. The largest meteorite ever found in the area is on display to see and touch. Meteor Crater honors the brave Americans who have ventured into space. The Astronaut Hall of Fame commemorates space flight. There are photographs, spacesuits and other exhibits honoring space missions. An Apollo Space Capsule can also be seen at the crater.

One of the most exciting experiences at the crater is the rim walk. The rim itself is about 150 feet above the surrounding plateau and 570 feet above the bottom of the crater. The sides are practically vertical below the rim. You can take the three and a half mile rim trail at the top of the crater, weather permitting. Hikers do need to have the proper footwear for the walk. However, hikers are not permitted into the crater. Astronaut Park is available for picnics and relaxing after an exciting day at the crater. The gift store has many unique items to take home. There is also a Coffee Shop on the grounds to sit and take in the experience.

Meteor Crater is open all year round. During May 15 through September 15 the hours are 6:00 to 6:00 and during September 16 through May 14 the hours are 8:00 to 5:00. The admission charge is $8.00 for adults, $7.00 for individuals over 60 and $4.00 for children 6 to 17. It is important to allow two hours for your visit to Meteor Crater. If you would like more information, you may call 520-289-2362.

You can get to the crater from Flagstaff by taking Interstate 40 east out of town for 22 miles. Then take exit 233 and follow the signs. It is only minutes south off of Interstate 40. If you are coming from Phoenix or Tucson take Interstate 17 north out of town to Flagstaff. Once in Flagstaff, take Interstate 40 east out of town. When you come to exit 233 take it and follow the signs to Meteor Crater. You can get to the crater from Winslow by taking Interstate 40 west out of town for 20 miles. Then follow the signs for the turnoff from the Interstate.

Flagstaff is in Northern Arizona . It is in Coconino County. Flagstaff is the seat of government for Coconino County, which is Arizona ’s second largest county encompassing 18,629 square miles. Flagstaff is nestled at the base of the towering San Francisco Peaks. Mount Humphrey’s is the tallest of the peaks and is one of Arizona ’s highest mountains. Flagstaff is surrounded by the largest stand of Ponderosa pine forests in the world. Most Arizona residents affectionately call Flagstaff “Flag”. The town is located at the junction of Interstate 40, running east and west and Interstate 17, running north and south. You can get to Flagstaff from Phoenix and Tucson by heading north out of town on Interstate 17, until it ends in Flagstaff.

Flagstaff is sometimes called “The City in the Pines” because the town sits in the middle of a Ponderosa Pine stand in the Coconino National Forest. The town is also called “The City of Seven Wonders” because of it proximity to the Grand Canyon, Oak Creek Canyon, Walnut Canyon, Wupatki National Monument, Sunset Crater National Monument and the San Francisco Peaks. It is a wonderful town close to many outdoor activities. Today Flagstaff’s population is 50,708. Flagstaff is a lively place with Northern Arizona University students accounting for almost 20 percent of the town’s population. The town sits at an elevation of 7,000 feet. The climate is cool all year round. The low temperature in the winter is 23 degrees and the summer high is 80 degrees. These temperatures give Flagstaff four seasons. The town receives close to 20 inches of precipitation and about 84 inches of snow a year. This snowfall makes Flagstaff a ski resort town and hosts the state’s largest ski area. Flagstaff is a wonderful base to use to see the variety of outdoor spots and attractions. After a busy day of seeing the sights Flagstaff is the perfect place to come back to and relax.

There are many attractions in Flagstaff that you will want to plan to visit during your stay. During the winter months Arizona Snowbowl is the most popular skiing area in Arizona . When summer arrives, Snowbowl turns into a wonderful viewing area atop the mountain by way of the ski lift. Riordan Mansion State Historic Park is located near the Northern Arizona University Campus and is the largest mansion built in Flagstaff by two logging brother barons. Tours of this mansion are offered daily with a glimpse back in the early days of the town. The Museum of Northern Arizona is an outstanding place to learn about the Colorado Plateau and its geology, anthropology and fine arts. Lowell Observatory sits atop the hill near downtown Flagstaff. It was here inside the silver dome, that the planet Pluto was discovered. The Observatory has wonderful displays and tours. The Arboretum at Flagstaff sits on 200 acres. The Arboretum has a variety of plants, including many native to the area. Flagstaff has so many outdoor activities. Wupatki National Monument is located just north of Flagstaff. Here you will see countless ruins of community from long ago. The three story dwelling at Wupatki is the most striking. Walnut Canyon National Monument is another spot full of ancient ruins. The steep sides of the canyon walls hold cliff dwellings of the Sinagua people. Sunset Crater Volcano National Monument is
a spectacular sight. There are two trails that visitors can take to get an up close look at the volcanic formations. Meteor Crater is truly amazing. A 570-foot deep and 4,000 foot diameter hole was created after a meteor slammed into the earth. Meteor Crater has a rim walk that lets you see the crater from all angles.

Events:
Flagstaff Winterfest (520) 774-4505 February
Archaeology Day (520) 774-5213 March
Wool Festival (520) 774-6272 June
Pine Country Rodeo (520) 526-9926 June
Coconino County Horse Races (520) 774-5130 July
Flagstaff Summerfest (520) 774-5130 August
Coconino County Fair (520) 774-5130 September

There were four military surveys that passed through Flagstaff before the town came into existence. The first was by Captain Lorenzo Sitgreaves and Lieutenant James Simpson in 1851. Then in 1853, Lieutenant Amiel W. Whipple journeyed through the area. The next survey was in 1858 with Lieutenant Joseph Christmas Ives. Finally Lieutenant Edward F. Beale came through with camels used as beasts of burden.

All of these military surveys proved to be beneficial when it came to the railroad heading west. However, it wasn’t until 1876 when the first group of Bostonians arrived to start a new life in the west. This group did not last long. After being disappointed with the farmland and not finding any gold they headed back. Then in 1876 another group from Boston arrived. It was with this group that the name Flagstaff was created. There are many stories surrounding the manner in which Flagstaff got its name.

However, this one story seems to surface most frequently. The story refers to a lofty pine stripped of its branches and used to hang an American flag with rawhide strings for a Fourth of July celebration. The flagstaff became a symbol for the valley and could be spotted miles away. It was said that those journeying west were told to travel straight west, until you come to a flagstaff where you will find a good place to camp. Still, the second group of Bostonians did not like the area and they to left too. However, it was in this same year that Thomas F. McMillan arrived and set up his home near a spring. He is recognized as being the town’s first permanent settler. He built a cabin at the base of Mars Hill. Then in 1881, the first post office opened and the railroad barreled into town. Flagstaff began to grow. The town had timber, sheep and cattle and by 1886 Flagstaff was the biggest city on the main line between Albuquerque and the Pacific coast.

By 1891, Flagstaff had grown to 1,500 and Coconino County was established. The county soon became the second largest county seat in the United States. The famous Lowell Observatory was built in 1894. Dr.
Percival Lowell chose Flagstaff for its great visibility. This proved to be correct when the planet Pluto was discovered at the observatory in 1930.
In 1899, Flagstaff was home to the Arizona Teachers College. Later, in 1966 it became Northern Arizona University and is still regarded as one of the best small colleges in the United States. During the 1920’s, Route 66 was built and passed right through town making Flagstaff a popular tourist stop. It also became an important source of income for the town. Flagstaff was incorporated as a city in 1928.

Flagstaff continues to grow today. The city has so much to offer with outstanding outdoor activities minutes away and many attractions surrounding Flagstaff.

The Arboretum at Flagstaff is a great place to visit, especially if you have a green thumb. By the time your visit ends, you will be green with envy with the display of plant life at the Arboretum. Your experience will include native plants to the alpine tundra, coniferous forest and high desert.

The Arboretum covers 200 acres. There is so much to see, ranging from display gardens, a solar greenhouse, children’s garden, wildflower meadow, herb garden, wetlands, riparian area and nature trails. The Arboretum supports the conservation of rare and endangered plants. Research is done to help save a variety of plants.
You will want to stop in at the visitor center to plan out your day. The gift shop is another place you won’t want to miss. You will find something here to remind you of your visit.

The Arboretum of Flagstaff is open Monday through Saturday from 9:00 to 5:00 during April through December 15 and during the summer 12:00 to 3:00. For more information, call 520-774-1442.
The Arboretum of Flagstaff is located just 4 miles south of Flagstaff off of Interstate 40 on Woody Mountain Road.

If you are coming from Tucson or Phoenix take Interstate 17 north out of town to Flagstaff. Once you are in Flagstaff take Interstate 40 west out of town for about four miles. When you come to Exit 191 take it and then take Woody Mountain Road and follow the signs to the Arboretum.

Percival Lowell founded Lowell Observatory in 1894. He chose Flagstaff to build the observatory because its clean air and high altitude, which create exceptional visibility. Lowell spent his time learning about the planet Mars. It was through Lowell’s twenty-two year study of the planet Mars and his theory of the expanding universe that led to the discovery of Pluto, fourteen years after his death. Clyde W. Tombaugh discovered the planet in exactly the position that Dr. Lowell had calculated. The Clark telescope that located Pluto is still at the Observatory, housed in a historic wooden dome.

The Lowell Observatory continues to be active in research and welcomes visitors to come explore sky. There are hands-on exhibits that will interest children and help explain concepts. The Pluto Walk gives visitors an up close view of the sequential order of planets through the use of models. Tours of the observatory are offered throughout the day. These guided tours begin with a slide show describing the history of the observatory and its founder.

Lowell Observatory is open every day from 9:00 to 5:00 during April through October and 12:00 to 5:00 during the remaining months of the year. The cost of admission is $3.50 for adults, $3.00 for seniors and
students with I.D., $1.50 for children 4 to 17 and $10.00 for a family rate.
Night Sky programs are available on Wednesday, Friday and Saturday at 7:00 and 7:45. These evening programs are becoming increasing popular. It is important to call ahead for more information at 520-774-2096 or 520-774-3358. Lowell Observatory is located at 1400 West Mars Hill, near downtown Flagstaff. If you are coming from Phoenix or Tucson take Interstate 17 north out of town to Flagstaff. Once you are in Flagstaff take Milton Road through town, until you come to a bend in the road. Take Mars Hill Road on the left and head up to the Observatory.

Wupatki National Monument is where the past meets the present. Just about 800 years ago, a large agricultural community sprawled across the base of the San Francisco Peak Mountains. It was the home for the Sinagua people, who farmed the land and traded with other cultures. Sinagua means “without water” in Spanish, which refers to their farming methods. It is believed that the today’s Hopi Indians are descendants from the original people that lived at Wupatki. At one time, this region must have been one of the most populated parts of northern Arizona .

Today, their masonry pueblos emerge from the rocks standing several stories high. The pueblos are so well preserved it is hard to believe that they have stood for so many years. One of the most impressive ruins is
Wupatki or “Tall House”. It contains more than 100 rooms and towered three stories high. A ball court is at one end of Wupatki. The court is similar to those found in Mexico. An open-air amphitheater is also
located in Wupatki. The circular amphitheater might have been used for meetings or ceremonies. If you look to the north of Wupatki, you will see a mesa about a mile away. On top of this mesa is another ancient ruin. There are hundreds of ruins all within the 35,253-acre NationalMonument. The Citadel, Nalakihu, Lomaki and the Wukoki are just some of the ruins that can be reached by short, self-guided hiking trails. Remember to please do not pick up any pottery shards. Each shard is an important piece to the past. Take nothing and leave only your footprints.

The Visitor Center has a room that has been built to recreate the interior of a room in Wupatki. There are exhibits describing the Navajo and Hopi people living nearby today. A collection of plant life and insects is also on display. A 15-minute talk about the culture from the past is offered at the Visitor Center. The Visitor Center has books, maps and posters for purchase. Visitors will find a picnic area available outside the Center.
The monument is open every day from 8:00 to 5:00 September through May and 8:00 to 6:00 June through August, except on Christmas. The admission charge is $3.00 a person and children under 17 are free. You
will want to plan for a stay of at least an hour to take in the whole monument. Please call to find out exact times.

If you would like more information on the monument, you may call 520-679-2365. Wupatki National Monument is located 39 miles north of Flagstaff, just off of Highway 89. You can get there from Flagstaff by taking U.S. Highway 89 north out of town, until you come to the turn off for Wupatki or Forest Road 545. Turn left and head east following the signs to the monument. If you are coming from Tucson or Phoenix take Interstate 17 north out of town to Flagstaff. Once you are in Flagstaff continue north on U.S. Highway 180, until you come to the junction with U.S. 89. Then take U.S. Highway 89 northeast to the turn off for Wupatki or Forest Road 545. Turn left and head east following the signs to the monument.

Both Sunset Crater Volcano National Monument and Wupatki National Monument are located close together. A 36 mile paved loop road connects the two monuments crossing a lava flow and rejoins U.S. Highway 89. It is a terrific experience, if you have time to take in both of these monuments.
While attending Northern Arizona University, I would head out to Wupatki to study. I found great focus in the winds of a great past.

Eloy is in Southern Arizona . It is in Pinal County. The town is lies in the Santa Cruz Basin, in one of the state’s most fertile agricultural areas. The Picacho Mountains are to the east and the Sawtooth Mountains are to the southwest. Eloy is also situated along the growth zone between Phoenix and Tucson called the “Golden Corridor.”

Skydive Arizona - http://www.skydiveaz.com/
Tandem and accelerated freefall (AFF) instruction. Eloy, AZ.

Overview:

Eloy is known for its farming. The citizens are in the business of cultivating a once barren desert and into making it produce a great agricultural wealth. The town sits at an elevation of 1,568 feet. The warm desert climate has a winter low temperature of 40 degrees and a summer high temperature of 100 degrees. The “Golden Corridor” makes Eloy a town of potential.

History:

In 1902, the Southern Pacific Railroad built a switch about six miles west of the town of Picacho. The railroad named the switch Eloy. There is an unusual and hard to believe it is true story about the naming of the town. It is said that as the train passed through the area, a railroad employee glanced out the window and said, “Eloi.” This phrase in Spanish refers to the biblical “Eli, Lama Sabachthani?” meaning “My God, why has thou forsaken me?”

Years later in 1918, W.L. Bernard, J.E. Meyer and John Alsdorf purchased the land east of Eloy. They drilled a well and subdivided the land. They proceed to call it Cotton City. Eventually, they also bought the land west of Eloy. This section of land, they divided into tracts for farming cotton.

In 1919, an application was submitted for establishment of a post office. The name Cotton City was used, but it was rejected. The name Eloy was given to the town.

Eloy was incorporated in 1949. Agriculture plays a large role in the town’s economy. However, it is working on developing an industrial base. It is growing town with residents that are optimistic about the future.

Community Features:

There is a terrific attraction just 15 miles to the north of Eloy, near the town of Coolidge. The Casa Grande Ruins National Monument is the tallest and largest Hohokam building known to exist. The monument is a four-story structure built in 1350 A.D. by the Hohokam Indians. The monument covers 427-acres and is a must see stop.

Eloy has several outdoor activities. The Picacho Reservoir offers fishing and bird watching. There are many rare species of birds that are attracted to this area. The Ocotillo Raceway is a unique motocross racetrack stretching one mile in length. Riders will experience the right mix of sand and dirt to get the best grip possible when racing. There is also a mini-monster track for the little guys. Be sure to check in advance for hours and days.

Timothy and Michael Riordan built the Riordan Mansion in Flagstaff in 1904. The Riordan’s were owners of Flagstaff’s logging company and their wives were sisters. The brothers built two large mansions side by side on a 50-acre low grassy hill. The mansion was first called Kinlichi, which is Navajo for red hill. Charles Whittlesey was the architect for the mansions. Whittlesey later went on to design and construct El Tovar Hotel at the Grand Canyon. The craftsman style of architecture is evident in both homes and in El Tovar.

The mansions used pine, native volcanic rock and stone for its construction. Each of the two story homes includes approximately 5,000 feet and 40 rooms. A single story recreation room or billiard room connects the two homes. Riordan Mansion opened as a state park in 1983. Tours are offered daily. During the tour, you will see original artifacts, furniture and mementos left by the Riordan Family. The home contains a collection of furnishing from Edison, Stickley, Tiffany and Steinway.
The park has a visitor center and picnic tables. The visitor center offers an exhibit area, informative slide program and a children’s area. Visitors will receive a brochure when embarking on a self-guided tour of the mansion. The brochure describes the mansion and surrounding attractions.

The Riordan Mansion State Historic Park is open every day from 8:00 to 5:00 during May through September with tours at 9:00,10:00, 11:00, 2:00, 3:00 and 4:00. During October through April the park is open 12:30 to 5:00 with tours at 1:00, 2:00, 3:00 and 4:00. The cost of admission is $4.00 for adults and $2.50 for children under 13.

The park is located at 1300 Riordan Ranch Street in Flagstaff near the northwest part of Northern Arizona University. You can get to the park from Phoenix or Tucson by taking Interstate 17 north out of town toward Flagstaff. Once you junction of Interstate 17 and Interstate 40 continue to head north approximately a half of a mile on Milton Road. Then turn right on Riordan Road and follow the signs to the park. It is recommended that you call in advance for reservations and allow at least an hour for your visit. The number is 520-779-4395.