Jerome Arizona

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 Arizona

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.

Wupatki National Monument

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 Arizona

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.”

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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.

Ehrenburg Arizona

Ehrenburg is in Western Arizona . It is in La Paz County. The town is located in the Mohave Desert, east of the Kofa and Plomosa Mountains on Interstate 10. It is across the Colorado River from the town of Blythe, California. Phoenix is 142 miles to the east and Parker is 40 miles north.

Overview:
Ehrenburg is a desert community with the Colorado River on its west side and beautiful desert mountain views to the east. The southwest desert climate has a winter low temperature of 40 degrees and a summer high temperature of 104 degrees. Colorado River water fun, off-road trails, desert sand drags, beautiful desert scenery, mild winters and fishing have all drawn many visitors and residents alike. The town’s motto is “Come Grow With Us.”

Community Features:
Ehrenburg has several nearby outdoor activities. Visitors will want to head over the Kofa National Wildlife Refuge to see bighorn sheep and Arizona ’s only stand of native palms. Palm Canyon is a tight gorge in the Kofa Mountains south of town. These palms can be seen by taking a steep hike up Palm Canyon. The Imperial National Wildlife Refuge stretches 31 miles along the Colorado River. It is great for fishing, bird watching, canoeing and boating, but please check where these activities are permitted.

Events:

Founder’s Day Celebration October

History:

The town of Ehrenburg began as Mineral City in 1863. It was the site of William and Isaac Bradshaw’s ferry landing.
Mineral City was renamed Ehrenburg, in honor of Herman Ehrenburg in 1867. Ehrenburg was a surveyor and mining engineer. He had also become partners with Mike Goldwater, grandfather to the former Senator Barry Goldwater. They had built a mercantile store and warehouse in town. Ehrenburg lost his life in an ambush on his way to Dos Palmas, California in 1866. After his death, Goldwater requested the town’s name be changed to Ehrenburg. One year after his death, the town’s name was officially made Ehrenburg.
In 1870, many miners left the town of La Paz just north of Ehrenburg. They relocated in Ehrenburg, which gave the town a boost in population. Ehrenburg saw paddle wheel steamboats traveling up stream on the Colorado from the Gulf. The Colorado River was a main source of transportation into the interior of Arizona . Supplies where then passed on to places like Prescott and other mining communities. Soon, Ehrenburg became a major port along the river. It was also the place where many Californians headed to when crossing the Colorado River into Arizona , during the La Paz Gold Rush.
A school was established in 1872. Then, Ehrenburg really started to boom during the mid-1970’s with almost 500 people living in town. The town had two bakeries, a hotel, church, saloons, corrals and a blacksmith shop.
In the early 1900’s, Ehrenburg declined and eventually became a ghost town. However, the present day Ehrenburg is approximately two miles south of the mining ghost town of Ehrenburg. Visitors today can see the ruins of the river port town. Please remember not to disturb or take anything from the town. We want to preserve the past, as best we can.
Today, Ehrenburg is an unincorporated town that is experiencing economic growth from a manufacturing facility and trucking industry. Ehrenburg’s location, along the Colorado River offers visitors a variety of water sports ranging from fishing to speedboat racing.

Eagar Arizona

Eagar is in Eastern Arizona . It is in Apache County. The town sits on the edge of the Apache-Sitgreaves National Forest with the Little Colorado River flowing nearby. It is located on U.S. Highway 180, at the junction with U.S. Highway 60 and is 221 miles northeast of Phoenix. Eagar is the sister city to Springerville, located to its north. Both towns are in a mountain bowl called Round Valley.

Eagar is the gateway to a White Mountain adventure. Many people have journeyed to this high county destination to enjoy it natural and cultural qualities, whether in search of outdoor fun or relaxation. Today Eagar’s population is 4,560. The town sits at an elevation of 7,114 feet. The climate is cool all year round with a winter low temperature of 21 degrees and a summer high temperature of 90 degrees. Eagar enjoys experiencing the four seasons. The tradition of ranching and trading are still very much alive in this town.

You will find several unique attractions in and around Eagar. Little House Museum is special place. The museum displays many treasures from the town’s past. There is terrific collection of music boxes and a rare Violina Virtuoso. The museum is only 7 miles east of Eagar on the X Diamond Ranch. Round Valley Ensphere is the only high school domed football stadium in the United States.

The Ensphere is a multi-use facility covering 120,000 square feet and reaching 104 feet high. The dome is available in the mornings for walks and tours can be scheduled. Casa Malpais Indian Ruins is an archaeological park. The ruins are from the Mogollon Indian Culture, including the Sinagua, Anasazi, Hohokam and Mogollon Indians.

One outstanding outdoor activity is a scenic drive. The Coronado Trail Scenic Byway travels between the towns of Morenci and Springerville, along U.S. Highway 180 or 191. Francisco Vasques de Coronado first used the trail in 1420, during his search of the Seven Cities of Cibola. The drive passes by gorgeous landscapes and through dangerous switchbacks. It is one drive you will want to make.

Events:
Annual Eagar Daze August

History:
The purpose for creating the town of Eagar was to combine all the settlements in the area and place it under the Union’s name. The community began in 1887 with John Thomas Eagar, his brothers Joel and William and the Robertson family. The name Eagarville was chosen to honor the three brothers who helped found the community. It wasn’t until the establishment of the post office, that the town of was created in 1888. By 1892, the name was shorted to Eagar.

Eagar was incorporated in 1948. Today, the town continues the strong tradition of ranching and trading. Tourism is a popular industry because of the town’s location, along the northeast slopes of the White Mountains.

Douglas Arizona

Douglas is in Southern Arizona . It is in Cochise County. The town is located on State Highway 80 near the Mexican border. You can get to Douglas from Phoenix and Tucson by taking Interstate 10 south out of town. It is approximately 120 miles southwest of Tucson. After you pass through Tucson, you will find that Interstate 10 gradually heads east toward the New Mexico border. You will need to continue until you come to the town of Benson. Take State Highway 80 south, at Benson. You will travel on State Highway 80, until you come to Douglas. You can get to Douglas from Nogales by taking State Highway 82, northeast out of town. When you come to State Highway 80, turn left and head south down to Douglas.

Douglas is a great spot to learn about the Old West. There are many adventures that are close to this town. It is a small town that began as a mining town and then on to cattle ranching. Today Douglas has three manufacturing plants. These plants produce items ranging from clothing to auto parts. The location of Douglas, near the Mexican border, has made it an international commerce point. Agua Prieta is the name of the town across the border. These two towns use each other’s strengths to prosper. With colorful Mexico at its back door and a host of scenic areas only a few hours away, Douglas has much to offer the vacationer. The population of Douglas is 13,784. The town sits at an elevation of 3,990 feet. Douglas has a pleasant year-around climate. The town has low winter temperatures near 39 degrees and summer highs around 99 degrees.

There are many attractions in and around Douglas. The Gadsden Hotel is a historic and elegant place to see. This hotel holds many tales of the past. Agua Prieta is a small Mexican town full of shopping and restaurants. You won’t want to miss an opportunity to go across the border to take in the culture.
Douglas has a variety of outdoor spots for visitors to see during a trip. The Chiricahua Wilderness is in the Chiricahua mountain range in the Coronado National Forest. Visitors will have a choice of camping spots and hiking trails. The Chiricahua National Monument is a part of the Chiricahua Mountain Range. It is wonderful place to see. Here at the visitor center you will learn about the history of the mountain range. The San Bernardino National Wildlife Refuge is a special place to see beautiful plants and water life, along with the home of one of Arizona ’s great cattle barons. Douglas combines the charm of the Old West with the comforts and pleasures of today.

The town was originally named Black Water. In the beginning, the water was so bad that many wouldn’t look at it when taking a drink. In those days, water wasn’t easy to come by and the town’s people got use to it. Although, the city on the other side of the border from Douglas still holds the original name, Agua Prieta meaning black water.

In the 1880’s and 1900’s the land around Douglas was perfect for cattle. The open grassy valley became the spot for roundups. Ranchers would gather their cattle to brand and haul them out.

In the early 1900’s, the Phelps Dodge Company discovered the Bisbee smelter was too small. It was also inconveniently located. The company began looking for a new spot to locate its smelter. Douglas was founded in 1901 as a mining site for a copper smelter. The town was then renamed after Dr. James Douglas, the president of Copper Queen Consolidated. It was Douglas, who developed some mining techniques that improved the process. Dr. Douglas also built his own railroad, after the Santa Fe Railroad raised their rates. His El Paso and Southwestern railroad line traveled from Bisbee to El Paso, along with the line from Bisbee and Nacozari, both of which came right through Douglas.

As the town grew, a hospital and homes were built for the many employees at the smelter. During the town’s peak more than 375,000 tons of ore a day were brought to the smelter to be processed.
During the early beginning of Douglas, the town became know for its lawlessness. In the same year that the town was founded, in 1901, the Arizona Rangers were sent to Douglas to establish their headquarters. The rows of saloons in town were a problem and so were the cattle thieves. It took some time to get the town under control.

From 1911 to 1935 the airport in Douglas served as an army airfield by helping smooth over border troubles with Mexico. In 1928, the first international airport in the United States opened in Douglas. The runway was part in the United States and part in Mexico. Famous pilots flew into the airport, such as Amelia Earhart. Commercial flights discontinued several years ago, although private flights are welcome.

The smokestacks stopped in 1987, but Douglas continues to grow with the help of the sister city across the border, Agua Prieta. Both of the town’s have turned to manufacturing and tourism and continue to prosper.

The Gadsden Hotel was first built in 1907. The architect H.C. Trost created its design. The Gadsden is a elegant 5-story, 160 room hotel. Nothing was held back during its construction. The Gadsden became the best hotel in the west.
When the Gadsden Hotel was being built, the area around it was in battle with the Apaches and cattle rustlers. Arizona was not even a state yet. The Gadsden was named after James Gadsden, who negotiated the purchase of land that later became part of Arizona and New Mexico. The Gadsden Purchase took place in 1853 for a price of $10 million dollars.

The hotel was known to be the place for the wheeling and dealing of cattle and mining barons. It was also a home and place to rest for many cowboys and miners. The Saddle and Spur Saloon offered cattlemen an opportunity to place their brand on the wall.

There are tales about how Douglas residents climbed to the roof of the hotel to watch the Mexican Revolution being fought across the border. Another tale describes an impromptu ride up the marble stairs by Pancho Villa himself. You can even see the chipped surface on the seventh stair where this ride took place.

Then in 1927, a fire destroyed the original hotel. But, in 1928 the new owners the Mackeys rebuilt the hotel. The hotel was built as a replica of the original hotel. This time, however, steel and concrete were used instead of wood.
In 1988, the hotel had fallen into disrepair. In the same year, the Brekus’s family purchased the hotel. Their love and care of this building has made the hotel a success once again. Today the Gadsden Hotel is a National Historic Monument and nearly every Arizona Governor has stayed in the hotel. The hotel includes a lobby with a sweeping Italian marble staircase, Victorian chandelier, a gold leaf ceiling, marble columns, a Tiffany vaulted sky light and stain glass mural.

Guests in the hotel have a variety of services to chose from during their stay. The Gadsden offers wedding services, tours, convention facilities, banquet rooms, a dress shop, a beauty shop, suites, a dining room, a coffee shop and a tavern. Visitors can view over 200 registered cattle brands in the famous Saddle and Spurs Tavern.

The Gadsden Hotel is located in Douglas at 1046 G Avenue.

Agua Prieta is a town across the border from Douglas on the Mexican side. It is the sister town to Douglas. There are nearly 100,000 residents in Agua Prieta. These two towns use each other strengths to prosper. Douglas has three manufacturing plants and Agua Prieta has thirty-three. These plants make items like clothing, seatbelts and plastic injection molding. It is estimated that 80 percent of the personal income from Agua Prieta is spent in Douglas.

However, Agua Prieta does lure shoppers and sightseers. Visitors can walk across the border to see the Old Mexico town. Agua Prieta has quaint streets filled with shops, plazas and restaurants. The authentic Sonoran Mexican cuisine is delicious and modestly priced.

When making a visit to Agua Prieta, U.S. citizens should carry proof of citizenship. A valid U.S. passport is the best, because it serves both as photo identification and works well when using cashiers checks. A U.S. birth certificate that is a certified copy is also acceptable. Visitors should be aware that a driver’s license is not proof of citizenship. If you are planning on staying in Agua Prieta for more than 72 hours, you need to get a tarjeta de turista (a Mexican government tourist card). Please check with U.S. customs at the border, if you have any questions or concerns. The U.S. customs office is open 24 hours a day.

Your short walk across the border into Agua Prieta will prove to be a great day full of culture, shopping and delicious food.

Duncan Arizona

Duncan is in Eastern Arizona . It is in Greenlee County. The Gila River flows along the east side of town. The town is located near U.S. Highway 191 and State Highway 75. Duncan is just a few miles from the New Mexico border, 166 miles northeast of Tucson and 204 miles southeast of Phoenix.

Overview:
Duncan has many natural resources such as copper, zinc and contains the largest fire-agate field in the nation. Today Duncan has a population of 500. The town sits at an elevation of 3,535 feet. The climate is mild all year round with a winter low temperature of 31 degrees and a summer high temperature of 100 degrees.

Community Features:
One important attraction that you won’t want to skip is the Greenlee County Historical Museum, which is located at the west end of Chase Creek in Clifton. The museum is packed full of interesting memorabilia from the surrounding area. Visitors will discover Supreme Court Justice Sandra Day O’Connor, Apache warrior Geronimo and Ted De Grazia were all born nearby. The museum has artifacts that make the west come alive. It is a stop worth taking.

There are a couple of outdoor activities nearby. The Coronado Trail Scenic Byway travels between the towns of Morenci and Springerville, along U.S. Highway 180 or 191. Francisco Vasques de Coronado first used the trail in 1540, during his search for the Seven Cities of Cibola. The drive passes by gorgeous landscapes and through dangerous switchbacks. The Black Hills Rockhounding Area is north of Duncan off of U.S. Highway 191. The road off the highway is not regularly maintained. Therefore, visitors should come prepared. Many rockhounds have found fire agates in this area. It is an adventure.

History:

The land in and around where Duncan is today was originally called Purdy. As the town grew, it became a marketing center for farming and shipping point for cattle and ore. The town was a rail stop, along the Arizona and New Mexico Railroad. In the 1880’s, the town’s name was changed to Duncan.

There are a variety of opinions as to how the town’s name originated. One story says it was named after James Duncan, who was the director of the Arizona Copper Company. The other story refers to Duncan Smith, who owned the property on which the rail stop was located.
During Duncan’s early years, it was known as a “tough town.” The town was always protecting itself from attacking Apaches and notorious outlaws. It was believed that “Black Jack” Ketchem and his gang used Duncan as a stopover. “Black Jack” and his gang were known stagecoach robbers.

In 1880, Henry Clay Day homesteaded a piece of land just a few miles from Duncan. He named his ranch “The Lazy B.” Henry eventually turned the ranch over to his son Harry. Harry married Ada Mae Wilkey and they had three children, Sandra, Ann and Alan. Sandra went to college, became a lawyer in Phoenix and held the position of Arizona Senate Majority Leader. Sandra Day O’Connor went on to become the first woman appointed to the United States Supreme Court. The Lazy B Ranch is also known for having the largest fire-agate field in the nation.
The town of Duncan was incorporated in 1938.

Marana Arizona

Marana Arizona

Marana is in Southern Arizona . It is in Pima County. The town is located along Interstate 10 between Tucson and Phoenix. Tucson is one mile to the south of town.

Overview:
Marana has long been a transportation center for farming and ranching. It is a pleasant rural community, enjoying the benefits of being located near a large metropolitan city. The town sits at an elevation of 2,055 feet. The warm desert climate has a winter low temperature of 40 degrees and a summer high temperature of 100 degrees. The town’s goal is to be the best place in the state to live, work, play and learn.

Community Features:
Marana has several outdoor activities. Picacho Peak State Park is 15 miles to the north. Picacho Peak was an early landmark for those traveling the desert and the site of the Arizona ’s only Civil War battle. The park offers hiking, camping and picnicking. Twenty miles to the east is Catalina State Park. When the early Spaniards passed through the area, they thought the mountains took on a cathedral-like appearance. They named them La Iglesia, meaning, “church.” Today, the mountain range is called the Santa Catalina Mountains. The park offers camping, picnicking and birdwatching. There is also an equestrian center that is a staging place for trail riders and trailer parking.

History:

Marana appeared on the map in 1881, when the Southern Pacific Railroad arrived. The name Marana comes from the Spanish word, meaning “jungle” or “impassable tangle.” This was appropriate because railroad construction workers had to chop their way through the mesquite brush and catclaw to make way for the line.
During World War I, the population grew. Ranching and the railroad were the main contributors to prosperity. Marana established a school and a hospital at this same time.

In 1920, Edwin R. Post arrived in the area with a plan. He drilled wells into the desert floor and began pumping. The water was used for in an extensive irrigation canal system. The town boomed from 1920 to 1924 with cotton farming and for a short time the town was called Postvale.
Construction of the Marana Army Air Field began in 1942, just north of town. The base was used as an air transport basic training school. The highway was improved between Tucson and Phoenix to help in the military efforts. Then in 1945, the base was deactivated. During the Korean War, it was reopened. Today, it is used as a storage place for civilian planes.

In 1959, Titan Missile sites were established, as a part of the ballistic missile installations in and around Tucson. There are five sites near Marana.

The widening of Interstate 10 in 1961 had a big impact. Marana’s downtown business district had to be removed and relocated. This change ruined main street. Visitors upon arriving in town, will find that Marana does not have a true main street like so many other small towns.

In 1977, Marana was incorporated. Soon, the town began an aggressive annexation process. These annexations have encouraged new business growth.

Today, Marana has a variety of home developments. However, agriculture still plays a part in the town’s economy. The University of Arizona has even established an agricultural center. Tourism also is a part in the community. Three championship golf courses offer lots of outdoor fun. Visitors are close to many attractions and outdoor activities. Marana wants to be “The Biggest Little Town in America.”

Mammoth Arizona

Mammoth is in Southern Arizona . It is in Pinal County. The town is located in the broad San Pedro River Valley, with the Galiuro Mountains to the west and the Santa Catalina Mountains to the south, along State Highway 77. Mammoth is a part of a tri-community area, covering a 12-mile radius with the towns of Oracle and San Manuel. Tucson is 40 miles southwest and Phoenix is 140 miles northwest.

Overview:
Mammoth is a quiet town sprinkled with adobe buildings and a rich mining history. The town sits at an elevation of 2,353 feet. The warm desert climate has a winter low temperature of 40 degrees and a summer high temperature of 99 degrees. The community is surrounded by giant cactus, cholla and pastel painted mountains.

Community Features:
There is a terrific attraction just a few miles southwest of town. Biosphere 2 is world famous. It is a three-acre model of the earth’s ecosystem. The mission of Biosphere is to serve as a center for teaching, learning and research about the earth and its systems. There are tours offered daily.
Mammoth has several outdoor activities. The Oracle State Park and Center for Environmental Education is currently offering nature education programs for school aged children and is a wildlife refuge. The Arizona Trail passes through a seven-mile section of the park. This trail is available for hiking, horseback riding and mountain biking. If you are interested in learning more, call the Oracle State Park. The Pinal Pioneer Highway begins southwest of town on State Highway 79. The highway heads to the town of Florence passing by all kinds of desert fauna. There are plaques along the roadside with information on the various plants. It is a gorgeous drive.

Events:

Mexico’s Independence Day May
Chili/Salsa Cook Off October

History:
In 1883, Frank Schultz located the first mine in the area. The name Mammoth was given to the mine because it was believed that the gold ore deposits were of mammoth proportions.
The mines soon realized that is was impossible to work the ore at the mine site. A stamp mill had to be built to solve the problem and the best place for the mill was along the San Pedro River. The location of the stamp mill became known as Mammoth, named after the mine. In the beginning, the ore was hauled down to the mill by mule teams and wagons. Then in 1903, aerial trams were constructed. Bucket loads of ore were sent down from the mine to the mill.

Throughout the 1880’s, the town was one of the busiest mining camps in the country. The Mammoth post office was established in 1887.

The Mammoth Mine changed owners and work was shut down in 1895. During this time, the mine developed a new system of milling. When molybdenum was found in the tailings during 1936, the mine had a short-lived resurgence. The town was incorporated in 1958.

The discovery of the nearby San Manuel Mine brought Mammoth alive again. The San Manuel Mine opened in the 1950’s, bringing more jobs to the surrounding mining towns. Today, production of metal continues to play a large role in the town’s economy, along with ranching.

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