History of Greenlee County, Arizona
Introduction to Greenlee County
Greenlee County, located in the southeastern part of Arizona, has a rich history rooted in mining, ranching, and Native American culture. Established in 1909, Greenlee County was named after Mason Greenlee, an early pioneer in the region. Mining, particularly copper mining, played a significant role in the county’s economic development, and the industry remains vital today. The county is known for its rugged landscapes, including the scenic Clifton-Morenci mining district and the Apache-Sitgreaves National Forest. Greenlee County is Arizona’s least populated county, offering a unique blend of historical significance and natural beauty.
County Facts
- Founded: March 10, 1909
- Population: Approximately 9,000 (2020 Census)
- Area: 1,848 square miles (4,787 km²)
- Area Code: 928
- ZIP Codes: 85533, 85534, 85540
- County Seat: Clifton
- Major Cities: Clifton, Morenci
- Famous Landmarks: Morenci Mine, Apache-Sitgreaves National Forest, Clifton Cliff Jail, Coronado Trail Scenic Byway
Early History of Greenlee County
Pre-Colonial Era (Pre-1500)
Before European contact, the region that is now Greenlee County was home to several Native American groups, most notably the Apache. The Apache were semi-nomadic and used the area’s rugged mountains and valleys for hunting, gathering, and protection from neighboring tribes. The Mimbres branch of the Mogollon culture also left behind archaeological evidence in the region, particularly near the Gila River.
Spanish Exploration (1500s-1700s)
During the 1500s and 1600s, Spanish explorers, including Francisco Vásquez de Coronado, ventured into what is now southeastern Arizona in search of riches and land for the Spanish Crown. However, the difficult terrain and the resistance of local Apache tribes limited Spanish settlement in the region. Jesuit and Franciscan missionaries passed through the area in the 1600s and 1700s, but unlike other parts of Arizona, Greenlee County saw little permanent Spanish influence.
Mexican and American Control (1800s)
Mexican Independence and Early Settlement (1821-1848)
After Mexico gained independence from Spain in 1821, the Greenlee County area became part of the Mexican state of Sonora. Mexican settlers primarily engaged in ranching and occasional mining. However, due to Apache raids and the remote nature of the region, settlement remained sparse.
Mexican-American War and Gadsden Purchase (1846-1854)
The conclusion of the Mexican-American War in 1848 and the subsequent Treaty of Guadalupe Hidalgo resulted in the cession of much of northern Mexico, including parts of Arizona, to the United States. However, the land that would later become Greenlee County remained part of Mexico until the Gadsden Purchase of 1854, which added southern Arizona to U.S. territory. This purchase allowed the U.S. to expand its southern railroad routes and opened the region to more settlers.
Formation of Greenlee County and the Rise of Mining (1880s-1910s)
Mining Boom and Population Growth (1880s-1900s)
The discovery of rich copper deposits in the late 1800s was a turning point for Greenlee County. The Morenci and Clifton mining districts, both located in the county, became some of the most productive copper mines in the United States. This led to a population boom in the area, as miners, prospectors, and railroad workers arrived to capitalize on the booming industry. The arrival of the Arizona Copper Company in 1882 and the construction of a railway connecting Clifton to Lordsburg, New Mexico, further spurred the region’s growth.
Clifton and Morenci
- Clifton: The town of Clifton, founded in 1873, quickly developed as a hub for mining activity. Located along the San Francisco River, Clifton served as the administrative and commercial center for the surrounding mining areas.
- Morenci: Morenci, located just north of Clifton, became one of the largest copper-producing areas in the world. The Morenci Mine, operated by Phelps Dodge Corporation (now Freeport-McMoRan), has been a key contributor to the county’s economy for over a century. Today, Morenci is home to one of the largest open-pit copper mines in the world.
Establishment of Greenlee County (1909)
On March 10, 1909, Greenlee County was officially established from parts of Graham County. The new county was named after Mason Greenlee, a local mining pioneer. Clifton was designated as the county seat due to its prominence as a mining town. The creation of Greenlee County was primarily driven by the need to manage the rapidly growing population and industry in the region.
Early 20th Century: Economic Expansion and Labor Struggles
Labor Movements and Strikes (1910s-1930s)
The early 20th century was a period of both economic growth and labor strife in Greenlee County. The rapid expansion of the mining industry led to significant demand for labor, with workers coming from various ethnic backgrounds, including Mexican and European immigrants. However, the harsh working conditions and low wages led to tensions between miners and mining companies.
Several strikes took place during this period, most notably the Clifton-Morenci Strike of 1915, in which miners protested for better working conditions and higher wages. The strike was part of a larger labor movement across the American Southwest, and though the miners did not achieve all of their demands, the event underscored the growing labor unrest in the region.
The Great Depression (1930s)
Like much of the United States, Greenlee County was affected by the Great Depression in the 1930s. The copper market collapsed, leading to widespread layoffs and economic hardship in the mining towns of Clifton and Morenci. However, despite the downturn, mining activity never completely ceased, and the county continued to rely heavily on the copper industry for its survival.
Post-War Period and Modern Development (1940s-Present)
World War II and Economic Recovery (1940s-1950s)
The outbreak of World War II in the 1940s brought a renewed demand for copper, as the metal was essential for military production. Greenlee County’s mines became critical to the war effort, and mining operations were ramped up to meet the demand. The post-war period also saw significant investments in infrastructure, including roads, schools, and hospitals, as the region began to recover economically.
Expansion of Morenci Mine (1960s-1990s)
In the latter half of the 20th century, the Morenci Mine continued to expand, becoming one of the largest copper producers in the world. By the 1980s and 1990s, technological advances, including the shift to open-pit mining, allowed for even greater productivity. Although the county’s economy remained heavily reliant on mining, efforts were made to diversify, with the development of tourism and the promotion of the region’s natural beauty.
Clifton Cliff Jail
One of Greenlee County’s most famous historical landmarks, the Clifton Cliff Jail, was built in 1881. Carved into the side of a cliff, the jail was originally constructed to house unruly miners and outlaws. It remains a popular tourist attraction today and serves as a reminder of the region’s rough-and-tumble mining history.
Population Decline and Challenges (1980s-Present)
While Greenlee County has maintained its mining heritage, it has faced challenges in recent decades. The county’s population has steadily declined since the mid-20th century, largely due to the mechanization of mining operations, which has reduced the need for manual labor. The shift to a more automated workforce has caused many residents to move elsewhere in search of employment opportunities.
Despite these challenges, Greenlee County continues to attract visitors with its scenic landscapes, including the Apache-Sitgreaves National Forest and the Coronado Trail Scenic Byway, which offer opportunities for outdoor recreation and tourism.
Key Landmarks and Attractions in Greenlee County
Morenci Mine
The Morenci Mine is one of the largest open-pit copper mines in the world, and its immense size and scope attract visitors from across the globe. Tours of the mine provide insight into the scale of modern mining operations and the history of copper production in the region.
Clifton Cliff Jail
A unique and historic site, the Clifton Cliff Jail offers visitors a glimpse into the county’s lawless past. The jail, which is carved into a cliffside, was once used to detain unruly miners and criminals. It stands as a symbol of Clifton’s rough mining history and remains a popular historical site.
Apache-Sitgreaves National Forest
Located in the northern part of Greenlee County, the Apache-Sitgreaves National Forest is a sprawling area of protected land that offers a wide range of outdoor activities, including hiking, camping, fishing, and birdwatching. The forest’s stunning natural beauty makes it a key attraction for nature lovers.
Coronado Trail Scenic Byway
The Coronado Trail Scenic Byway (US Route 191) is a winding, mountainous road that offers breathtaking views of Greenlee County’s rugged terrain. The road follows the path that Spanish explorer Francisco Vásquez de Coronado is believed to have taken during his expedition in the 16th century. The route is known for its dramatic landscapes and outdoor recreational opportunities.
