Tombstone Community Profile:
Tombstone is probably the most famous mining town in America. In the 1870s, prospector Ed Schieffelin Left FT. Huachuca in search of silver in an area heavily populated by Apaches. He was told all he would find would be his tombstone, meaning the Indians would surely get him. Thus, he named his first silver mine Tombstone, & became the town name. Notorious for saloons, gambling houses & the Earp-Clanton shoot-out at OK Corral, Tombstone grew quickly & was known as the most cultivated city in the West. This boomtown came to an end in 1911. Having survived the Great Depression & removal of the County Seat to Bisbee, Tombstone in the 1930s became known as the “Town Too Tough To Die.”
Principal Economic Activities:
Tombstone’s economy has changed drastically since its days as a mining town. Its colorful history is the key factor for steady growth. In 1962, the Department of the Interior designated Tombstone a Registered Historical Landmark. A restoration zone was established and a commission organized for the preservation of its landmarks. Tourism is a mainstay of the economy. The mild year-round climate and low humidity make Tombstone an attractive place for retirement.
Scenic Attractions:
Cochise County, including Tombstone, is the site of a fascinating chapter in American History. It was home to the notorious Apache Indians, Cochise & Geronimo. Chiricahua Natl. Monument, the Cochise Stronghold, Ft. Huachuca & the 1877 Calvary Post Museum preserve Indian and pioneer heritage. Tombstone’s historic buildings include the Courthouse, built in 1882 & now a state park; the Rose Tree Museum, three churches, Bird Cage Theater, Crystal Palace Saloon, & Big Nose Kate’s Saloon. Tombstone offers daily historic stagecoach tours. Tombstone’s early days are re-enacted in October during the Helldorado Celebration. Daily shows, shoot-outs depicts the town’s western heritage at the OK Corral, Helldorado Town and Six Gun City.
Area Links
Tombstone City Information
Tombstone Visitor Center
Tombstone History
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