In 1881, the 11th Territorial Assembly established Cochise County. The name Cochise came from a famous Apache Indian chief. The first county seat went to Tombstone. The town was an obvious choice, in that it was one of the largest cities in the western United States. Tombstone became a magnet to so many because of its mines. The honor of county seat remained in Tombstone throughout its difficult times. Even in 1887, when the silver mines were flooded. Tombstone lived up to its nickname as the "Town too Tough to Die." 
Then in 1929, the county seat moved to Bisbee. Bisbee was another mining town. It is the site of the Copper Queen Mine, which was discovered in 1877. Today, Phelps Dodge owns the mine.
The San Pedro River flows north through the county before it joins the Gila River. Many explorers and travelers used the San Pedro as a natural pathway. Not only does Cochise County have a river valley, but it also has magnificent mountain ranges. In the east, the Chiricahua Mountains form unusual rock shapes and in the southwest the Huachuca Mountains is a premier birding spot in the United States.
There are many attractions you will want to make time to see during a visit to Cochise County. Kartchner Caverns State Park is one of Arizona 's new homeest parks. Visitors will have the opportunity to step deep into the earth and see its marvelous formations. The caverns are just south of Benson. The Coronado National Memorial is a part of the Coronado National ForestChiricahua National Monument is a section of the Chiricahua Mountain Range. The monument has large stone columns, rocky spires and rocks perilously balanced on top of each other. Scientists believe that this area was created nearly 25 million years ago. Visitors will learn more at the visitor center and by enjoying the hiking trails.
Cochise County is a diverse place. There is something for everyone ranging from wild west mining towns to a military fort. Come see Cochise County!