History of Apache County, Arizona
Apache County, located in the northeastern corner of Arizona, boasts a rich and diverse history shaped by indigenous cultures, the expansion of European settlers, and the emergence of frontier life in the American Southwest. Established in 1879, the county is named after the Apache Native American tribes that historically inhabited the region. It is known for its cultural significance, particularly due to the large presence of the Navajo Nation, which occupies much of the county. The region is home to diverse natural landscapes, including mountains, plateaus, and deserts, and has evolved into a place where history, culture, and nature converge.
County Facts
- Founded: February 24, 1879
- Population: Approximately 66,021 (as of the 2020 Census)
- Area: 11,218 square miles
- Area Codes: 928
- ZIP Codes: 85936, 85938, 85940, 86503, 86504, 86506, 86510, 86511, 86512
- County Seat: St. Johns
- Major Cities: St. Johns, Eagar, Springerville, Ganado
- Famous Landmarks:
- Canyon de Chelly National Monument
- Petrified Forest National Park
- Hubbell Trading Post National Historic Site
- Navajo Nation
- Mount Baldy Wilderness Area
Early History of Apache County (Pre-1800s)
Indigenous Peoples and Early Inhabitants
Before European settlers arrived, the region that would become Apache County was home to various indigenous peoples, most notably the Navajo (Diné), Apache, and Hopi tribes. These tribes had distinct cultures, with the Navajo and Apache being semi-nomadic, relying on hunting, gathering, and raiding for survival, while the Hopi were settled agriculturalists. The Navajo and Apache were skilled horsemen, an ability they honed after the Spanish introduced horses to the region in the 16th century.
The rugged terrain and geographic features of northeastern Arizona, such as the vast Colorado Plateau and the deep canyons, provided natural defenses and aided the indigenous groups in protecting their homelands. The Navajo, in particular, developed intricate knowledge of the land, which they used to sustain themselves in the high desert.
Spanish and Mexican Influence (1600s-1848)
Spanish Exploration and Settlement (1600s-1700s)
Spanish explorers first ventured into what is now Arizona in the 16th century. Spanish missions and presidios (fortified military settlements) were established across the region, but the Apache and Navajo lands remained largely untouched due to their remote and rugged nature. Attempts by Spanish missionaries to convert the indigenous peoples to Christianity were often met with resistance.
However, Spanish influence brought significant changes to the region, particularly with the introduction of horses, which transformed the culture and mobility of the Apache and Navajo peoples. These tribes adopted horses into their way of life, making them more effective in hunting and defense.
Mexican Independence and Apache Conflicts (1821-1848)
After Mexico gained independence from Spain in 1821, Apache County became part of the newly formed Mexican Republic. Tensions between the Mexican government and the native tribes, particularly the Apache and Navajo, continued to escalate, leading to skirmishes and raiding on both sides. Mexican settlers in the region faced frequent attacks by native groups as they defended their traditional lands from encroachment.
U.S. Control and the Apache Wars (1848-1886)
U.S. Acquisition of Arizona (1848)
Following the Mexican-American War, the signing of the Treaty of Guadalupe Hidalgo in 1848 transferred much of the Southwest, including present-day Arizona, to the United States. This marked the beginning of a period of intense conflict between the U.S. government and the Apache and Navajo peoples as settlers began to move westward.
The Apache Wars and the Reservation System (1861-1886)
The Apache Wars, which lasted from the 1860s through the 1880s, were a series of conflicts between the U.S. military and various Apache groups, including those led by famous leaders such as Cochise, Geronimo, and Mangas Coloradas. Apache County became a battleground as the U.S. government attempted to subdue the Apache and force them onto reservations. The last significant resistance ended with the surrender of Geronimo in 1886, after which most Apache people were confined to reservations.
The Navajo people also faced forced relocation during this period. In 1864, thousands of Navajo were forced to march to Bosque Redondo in New Mexico, a tragic event known as the Long Walk. After years of hardship, the Navajo were allowed to return to a portion of their ancestral lands in 1868, and today, much of the Navajo Nation lies within Apache County.
Founding of Apache County and Early Development (1879-1930)
Apache County’s Establishment (1879)
Apache County was officially established on February 24, 1879, as one of the original counties of the Arizona Territory. The county initially included a vast area, but over time, parts of it were split off to form Navajo County and other regions. St. Johns was chosen as the county seat due to its central location and growing population.
Agriculture, Ranching, and Settlement
By the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Mormon settlers, ranchers, and farmers began to establish communities in the region. Towns like St. Johns, Springerville, and Eagar became centers for agriculture and cattle ranching. The fertile valleys and river systems supported the growth of crops, while the high plains and grasslands provided ample grazing for livestock.
The early economy of Apache County was based on agriculture and livestock, but settlers faced numerous challenges, including harsh weather conditions and isolation from larger markets.
Economic Development and the Modern Era (1930-1980)
The Great Depression and New Deal Programs
The Great Depression of the 1930s hit rural areas like Apache County hard, but New Deal programs helped mitigate some of the economic hardships. The federal government provided funding for infrastructure projects, including roads, bridges, and schools, which improved living conditions and connected Apache County to the broader Arizona economy.
World War II and Post-War Development
During World War II, many men from Apache County enlisted in the military, and the county contributed agricultural goods to the war effort. After the war, the county saw modest economic growth, supported by its natural resources, including logging, ranching, and agriculture. The construction of infrastructure like roads and railways also made the region more accessible, facilitating the growth of industries such as tourism.
Modern Apache County (1980-Present)
Navajo Nation and Cultural Preservation
Today, a significant portion of Apache County is part of the Navajo Nation, the largest Native American reservation in the United States. The Navajo Nation government plays a crucial role in managing land, cultural resources, and economic development for its people. Efforts to preserve Navajo language, culture, and traditions are central to the identity of the region.
Economic Challenges and Opportunities
Like many rural areas in the U.S., Apache County faces economic challenges, including high poverty rates and limited employment opportunities. The county’s economy continues to rely on agriculture, ranching, and tourism, with visitors drawn to its natural beauty and historical sites. There have also been efforts to promote renewable energy and improve infrastructure to create more job opportunities for residents.
Tourism remains an important economic driver, with attractions like Canyon de Chelly National Monument, Petrified Forest National Park, and Hubbell Trading Post National Historic Site drawing visitors from around the world.
Famous Landmarks and Attractions
Canyon de Chelly National Monument
Canyon de Chelly is one of the most iconic landmarks in Apache County. This stunning canyon has been inhabited for thousands of years and contains ancient cliff dwellings and rock art from the Ancestral Puebloans and Navajo peoples.
Petrified Forest National Park
Known for its vibrant petrified wood and stunning desert landscapes, Petrified Forest National Park offers a glimpse into the region’s prehistoric past. The park also contains significant archaeological sites.
Hubbell Trading Post National Historic Site
Hubbell Trading Post is the oldest continuously operating trading post in the American Southwest. Established in 1878, it played a key role in facilitating trade between the Navajo people and American settlers.
Navajo Nation
Much of the Navajo Nation lies within Apache County. The reservation is home to Navajo government, culture, and traditions, providing visitors with opportunities to learn about Navajo history and contemporary life.
Mount Baldy Wilderness Area
Mount Baldy is a sacred mountain for the Apache and Navajo peoples and is one of the highest peaks in Arizona. The wilderness area surrounding the mountain offers hiking, wildlife viewing, and stunning views of the White Mountains.
