Tag: Arizona

Arizona, located in the southwestern region of the United States, is renowned for its diverse landscapes and cultural richness. Home to iconic natural wonders such as the Grand Canyon, Monument Valley, and the red rocks of Sedona, Arizona offers a dramatic and varied terrain that ranges from arid deserts to pine-covered mountains. The state’s climate is typically characterized by hot summers and mild winters, with the southern parts being desert-like while the northern regions experience a more temperate climate. Arizona is also rich in Native American history, with numerous tribes such as the Navajo, Hopi, and Apache having deep roots in the region. The state’s cities, including Phoenix and Tucson, blend modern urban life with a strong appreciation for the natural environment and cultural heritage. Arizona’s economy thrives on tourism, technology, and agriculture, making it a dynamic and multifaceted state.

The Tombstone Epitaph

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The Arizona Historical Newspaper, the Tombstone Epitaph announces the gunfight at the O K Coral.
The Arizona Historical Newspaper, the Tombstone Epitaph announces the gunfight at the O K Coral.

The Tombstone Epitaph is a historic newspaper in the American West, closely tied to the lore of the Wild West and the famous town of Tombstone, Arizona. It was founded on May 1, 1880, by John Clum, a former Indian agent and the first mayor of Tombstone. The newspaper played a significant role in documenting the events of one of the most storied periods in American history.

Founding and Early History

John Clum founded the Tombstone Epitaph during a time when Tombstone was booming due to the discovery of silver in the nearby mountains. The town quickly grew into one of the largest and most notorious in the West, attracting miners, gamblers, outlaws, and lawmen alike. Clum, a staunch Republican and supporter of law and order, used the paper to promote his views and to support the efforts of the Earps, who were the town’s law enforcement at the time.

The newspaper’s name, “Epitaph,” was reportedly chosen by Clum as a nod to the violent and often deadly nature of life in Tombstone. He believed that the paper would serve as the “epitaph” for many of the stories and lives that would pass through the town. The Epitaph became known for its bold headlines, sensational stories, and fierce editorials.

The Gunfight at the O.K. Corral

One of the most famous events covered by the Tombstone Epitaph was the Gunfight at the O.K. Corral on October 26, 1881. The shootout between the Earp brothers—Wyatt, Virgil, and Morgan—and Doc Holliday on one side, and the Clanton and McLaury brothers on the other, was a pivotal moment in Tombstone’s history. The newspaper provided a detailed account of the event, and its coverage helped shape the public’s perception of the Earps as lawmen battling against lawlessness.

Decline and Revival

As Tombstone’s silver mines began to decline in the late 1880s, the town’s population dwindled, and the Tombstone Epitaph faced financial difficulties. The paper struggled to survive but managed to continue publishing, albeit with less frequency. Over the years, the Epitaph shifted from being a daily to a weekly, and eventually to a monthly publication.

In the 20th century, the Tombstone Epitaph experienced a revival as interest in the Old West and its colorful history grew. The newspaper became a cherished piece of Americana, and its archives were preserved as valuable historical records. In the 1960s, the paper was revived as a historical publication, focusing on the history of Tombstone and the American West. It continues to be published today, both as a historical monthly and as a tourist newspaper, providing visitors with stories and insights into the town’s storied past.

Legacy

The Tombstone Epitaph remains one of the most iconic newspapers of the American West. Its coverage of the events in Tombstone, particularly during the 1880s, has made it a key source for historians and enthusiasts of the Wild West. The newspaper not only documented the events of a bygone era but also helped shape the legends that continue to captivate people today.

Tombstone Epitaph Headlines

The Tombstone Epitaph, Marth 27, 1882 headlined with the murder of Frank Stillwell by Wyatt Earp et all

The Tombstone Epitaph – March 27, 1882

On March 27, 1882, The newspaper the Tombstone Epitaph announced the murder of Frank Stilwell in Tucson Arizona. Frank Stilwell was an outlaw and a…
The Tombstone Epitaph, March 20, 1882

The Tombstone Epitaph, March 20, 1882

The Tombstone Epitaph, March 20, 1882 reports of the murder of Tombstone Resident Morgan Earp while playing pool in Tombstone, Arizona. This event followed the…
The Arizona Historical Newspaper, the Tombstone Epitaph announces the gunfight at the O K Coral.

The Tombstone Epitaph, October 27, 1881

The following is the original transcript of The Tombstone Epitaph published on October 27, 1881 on the infamous gun fight at the O K Corral…

Chloride Arizona

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Chloride Arizona is the oldest continuously inhabited Silver Mining town located in Mohave County, Arizona. The name derives its named from Silver Chloride (AgCl) which is found in abundance in the local Cerbet mountains.

1916 Chloride Main Street. Arizona.
1916 Chloride Main Street. Arizona.

Chloride’s modern history began in the late 19th century when prospectors, drawn by rumors of silver and other valuable minerals, began to explore the nearby hills and canyons. In 1863, a prospector named John Moss struck silver in the area, leading to a flurry of activity as more miners and settlers arrived. The first official post office was established in 1866, and Chloride was officially born.

Chloride experienced rapid growth during the late 1800s as mines produced substantial amounts of silver, lead, zinc, and other valuable minerals. The town’s population swelled. Businesses, saloons, and other establishments sprung up to cater to the needs of the growing community. At its peak, Chloride boasted a theater, several hotels, and a bustling main street.

Chloride Arizona and part of the Cerbat Range, looking easy from Silver Hill, with Tennessee Avenue in the foreground - 1906- Photo U.S. Geological Survey
Chloride and part of the Cerbat Range, looking easy from Silver Hill, with Tennessee Avenue in the foreground. 1906 – Photo U.S. Geological Survey

However, like many mining towns of the era, Chloride’s prosperity was short-lived. Fluctuating metal prices, mine closures, and the depletion of easily accessible minerals led to a decline in the town’s fortunes. By the early 20th century, Chloride entered a period of decline. Much of its population began to dwindle as residents sought opportunities elsewhere.

Despite the challenges, some residents remained in Chloride, and the town managed to maintain a semblance of its former self. The 20th century saw the rise of tourism as visitors were drawn to Chloride’s picturesque desert landscapes, historical buildings, and remnants of its mining heritage. Efforts to preserve the town’s history led to the restoration of several historic structures, including the Monte Cristo Saloon. The saloon proudly claims to be Arizona’s oldest continuously operating bar.

Modern Relevance

In recent decades, Chloride has experienced a revival fueled by a mix of nostalgia, artistic expression, and a desire to escape the hustle and bustle of city life. The town has attracted a diverse group of residents, including artists, retirees, and those seeking a slower pace of life.

One of Chloride’s most unique and captivating features is the open-air Chloride Murals project. In the early 1960s by local artist Roy Purcell, this project has transformed the town into a vibrant canvas. Murals depicting scenes from Chloride’s history, Native American culture, and the American West decorate the sides of buildings and rock formations.

Chloride Arizona Town Summary

NameChloride, Arizona
LocationMohave County, Arizona
Latitude, Longitude35.4047, -114.1812
Elevation4,022 ft (1,226 m)
GNIS2882
Population229
Max Population2000

Trail Map

References

Alamo Crossing Mohave County Ghost Town

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Alamo Crossing is a submerged ghost town hidden beneath the waters of Alamo Lake, Mohave County, Arizona.

Alamo Crossing, Mohave County Arizona
Alamo Crossing, Mohave County Arizona

The town is founded by Tom Rogers about 1899. The little hamlet served as a small mining community to transient prospectors with most of the population camping out. During its heyday, the town only consisted of a five-stamp mill, a few stores and a post office. The town’s population is never known to be significant.

In 1968, an earth filled damn is constructed along the Bill Williams River by the Army Corp of Engineers for flood control. The 283 foot tall damn caused the formation of Lake Alamo, which is about 80 feet deep. The remains of Alamo Crossing still lie in the waters of the lake. Scuba gear is required to explore the remains. The town site was believed to be one of the best preserved ghost towns in the county, prior to flooding.

In 2020, the area surrounding Alamo is revived for mining again, this time for placer gold prospecting.

Trail Map

Town Summary

NameAlamo Crossing
Also Known AsAlimo,
LocationAbout 60 miles northwest of Wickenberg on Bill Williams River, Mohave County, Arizona
Latitude, Longitude34.2605, -113.5827
Elevation1,237 ft (377 m)
GNIS25299
Post officeNovember 13, 1889 – December 15, 1900
March 30, 1911 – 1918 Alamo

References

Warren Baxter Earp

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Warren Baxter Earp ( March 9, 1855 – July 6, 1900 ), the youngest of the Earp brothers, was born into a family that would become synonymous with the Wild West and the lawlessness of frontier America. Though not as famous as his older brothers Wyatt, Virgil, and Morgan, Warren’s life was marked by the same tumultuous spirit and sense of loyalty that defined the Earp family.

Warren Baster Earp ( March 9, 1855 - July 6, 1900 )
Warren Baster Earp ( March 9, 1855 – July 6, 1900 )

Early Life

Warren Baxter Earp was born on March 9, 1855, in Pella, Iowa, to Nicholas Porter Earp and Virginia Ann Cooksey. As the youngest of the Earp brothers, Warren grew up in a household that was constantly on the move, eventually settling in Colton, California. Unlike his older brothers, Warren did not participate in the Civil War, as he was too young. He was, however, deeply influenced by his older siblings, particularly Wyatt and Virgil, who served as lawmen in the rough-and-tumble towns of the American West.

Tombstone and the Earp Vendetta Ride

Warren Earp first made his way to Tombstone, Arizona, in the early 1880s, joining his brothers in the bustling mining town. Although he was not directly involved in the famous Gunfight at the O.K. Corral on October 26, 1881, Warren’s presence in Tombstone placed him at the heart of the events that followed.

After the assassination of his brother Morgan in March 1882, Warren became an active participant in the Earp Vendetta Ride, a series of revenge killings led by Wyatt Earp. The Vendetta Ride was a direct response to the murder of Morgan and the perceived lack of justice from local authorities. During this period, Warren showed his loyalty to his family, joining his brothers in hunting down those they believed were responsible for Morgan’s death.

Later Life

After the events in Tombstone, Warren Earp led a relatively unsettled life, drifting across the West and working various jobs, including as a cowboy, stagecoach driver, and occasional lawman. Unlike his brothers, who eventually found some measure of stability, Warren never fully escaped the shadow of his family’s tumultuous past. His fiery temper and propensity for getting into conflicts often put him in dangerous situations.

By the late 1890s, Warren Earp had made his way to Willcox, Arizona, a small but lively cattle town that served as a hub for ranchers and cowboys in the region. Willcox, like many frontier towns, was a place where disputes were often settled with fists or firearms rather than words, and Warren, with his reputation and temperament, fit right into this rough environment.

The Fatal Encounter

On the evening of July 6, 1900, Warren Earp found himself at the Headquarter Saloon in Willcox. He had been drinking and, according to various accounts, was in a combative mood. Warren had a longstanding grudge against a local ranch hand named John Boyett, and that night, the simmering tensions between the two men came to a head.

Details of what transpired in the saloon are somewhat unclear, as different witnesses provided varying accounts of the events. However, it is generally agreed that Warren, who was known for his temper, began provoking Boyett, possibly over some perceived slight or lingering resentment. The confrontation escalated quickly, and Warren, who was unarmed at the time, reportedly taunted Boyett, daring him to draw his weapon.

Feeling threatened and perhaps fearing for his own life, John Boyett drew his revolver and shot Warren Earp, striking him in the chest. Warren collapsed to the floor and died shortly thereafter, his life ending in a manner not unlike the violent encounters that had defined much of his family’s history.

Legacy

Warren Baxter Earp was buried in the Willcox Cemetery, and while his grave is not as visited as those of his more famous brothers, it remains a part of the larger Earp legend. Warren’s life, though cut short, exemplifies the rough and often violent existence of men living on the frontier. His story is a reminder that the Earp family legend is not just one of heroism and law enforcement but also of the complexities and contradictions that defined the American West.

Earp Family Members

James Cooksey Earp ( June 28, 1841 - January 25, 1926 )

James Cooksey Earp

James Cooksey Earp ( June 28, 1841 - January 25, 1926 ) James Cooksey Earp ( June 28, 1841 - January 25, 1926 ) was…
Morgan Earp historical photo, 1881. Probably taken by C.S. Fly.

Morgan Seth Earp

Morgan Seth Earp, born on April 24, 1851, in Pella, Iowa, was a notable figure of the American Old West, primarily recognized for his association…
Virgil Earp 1843 -1905

Virgil Walter Earp

Virgil Walter Earp ( July 18, 1843 – October 19, 1905) was born in Lincoln County, Kentucky, was a prominent lawman and frontier figure known for his…
Warren Baster Earp ( March 9, 1855 - July 6, 1900 )

Warren Baxter Earp

Warren Baxter Earp ( March 9, 1855 - July 6, 1900 ), the youngest of the Earp brothers, was born into a family that would…
Wyatt Berry Stapp Earp - Aged 39

Wyatt Berry Stapp Earp

Wyatt Berry Stapp Earp (March 19, 1848 – January 13, 1929) was an American lawman and gambler who became a legendary figure of the Old…

Southeastern Arizona Mining Towns

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Southeastern Arizona Mining Towns - Images of America - Author William Ascarza
Southeastern Arizona Mining Towns – Images of America – Author William Ascarza

Southeastern Arizona has one of the most diverse mining localities in the state. Towns such as Bisbee, Clifton, Globe, Miami, Ray, Silverbell, and Superior have earned reputations as premier metal producers that are most notably known for their copper. Other mining towns that have made their marks in the region include Dos Cabezas, Gleeson, Harshaw District, Helvetia, Patagonia District, Pearce, Ruby, and Tombstone. Mining in southeastern Arizona has significantly influenced the development of mines in northern Sonora, Mexico. The foundation of Mexico’s largest copper mine in Cananea was financed by American capital, specifically under the direction of miners and investors from southeastern Arizona. Overall, the process of mining has established the economy of southeastern Arizona, making it a viable source of copper-related minerals in the 21st century’s global market.

About the Author

Auther of Southeastern Arizona Mining Towns, William Ascarza writes the Arizona Star column Mine Tales about Arizona mining history. An entrepreneur, historian, researcher and travel guide, Ascarza is author of five books, including Zenith on the Horizon: An Encyclopedic Look at the Tucson Mountains from A to Z and Tucson Mountains, Sentinel to the North: Exploring the Tortolita Mountains.