History of Gila County, Arizona
Gila County, located in central Arizona, is steeped in rich history, from its earliest Native American inhabitants to its central role in Arizona’s mining boom. Established in 1881, the county has been a site of exploration, conflict, and economic development. Its history includes Spanish expeditions, Native American wars, and the mining booms of the late 19th and early 20th centuries that transformed the region into a hub of industry and population growth. Today, Gila County continues to attract visitors for its historical landmarks, outdoor recreation, and its connection to Arizona’s pioneering past.
Gila County Facts
- Founded: February 8, 1881
- Population: Approximately 53,000 (2023 estimate)
- Area: 4,795 square miles
- Area Codes: 928
- ZIP Codes: 85501–85554
- County Seat: Globe
- Major Cities: Globe, Payson, Miami
- Famous Landmarks: Tonto National Monument, Roosevelt Lake, Tonto National Forest, Besh-Ba-Gowah Archaeological Park, the Salt River
Early History and Native American Presence (Pre-1600s)
Gila County’s earliest inhabitants were Native American tribes such as the Hohokam, Salado, and Apache. These tribes settled near the Gila River and other water sources, creating advanced irrigation systems, growing crops, and establishing trade routes.
The Hohokam Civilization (300 AD–1450 AD)
- The Hohokam people built complex canal systems for irrigation and were known for their pottery and agriculture.
- Their influence waned around 1450 AD due to climatic changes and resource depletion, giving rise to the Salado people.
The Salado and Apache Influence (1200s–1800s)
- The Salado culture, famous for its intricate pottery and cliff dwellings, thrived around modern-day Tonto Basin, where they built the structures now preserved at Tonto National Monument.
- Apache tribes migrated into the region by the 1500s, becoming the dominant group by the time Europeans arrived.
Spanish Exploration and Territorial Claims (1500s–1821)
The first Europeans to explore the Gila County area were the Spanish, who began expeditions into Arizona in the 16th century. The region, like much of Arizona, was part of New Spain until Mexican independence in 1821.
Early Spanish Expeditions (1540s)
- 1540: Spanish explorer Francisco Vásquez de Coronado passed through the area during his quest for the fabled Seven Cities of Gold.
- Spanish missionaries and soldiers would later explore the region, but permanent settlements were rare due to the hostile Apache presence.
Mexican Control and Apache Resistance (1821–1848)
After Mexico gained independence from Spain in 1821, Gila County, like much of the Southwest, became part of Mexico. However, Mexican control over the area was tenuous, largely due to ongoing conflict with the Apache tribes, who resisted both Spanish and Mexican encroachments on their lands.
- 1821–1846: The Mexican government made several unsuccessful attempts to settle and control the region.
- The Gadsden Purchase (1853) transferred southern Arizona to the United States, but Gila County remained largely under the control of Native tribes until the 1870s.
The Transition to U.S. Control (1848–1880)
The Treaty of Guadalupe Hidalgo in 1848 ended the Mexican-American War, bringing most of Arizona, including Gila County, under U.S. control. The U.S. government’s primary challenge was to subdue Apache resistance, which remained fierce until the late 1800s.
The Apache Wars and Fort Establishments (1860s–1880s)
- 1870s: The U.S. military, including the famous scout Al Sieber and leaders like General Crook, led campaigns to remove or pacify the Apache, establishing forts such as Fort Apache in eastern Arizona.
- 1871: The Camp Grant Massacre near the Gila River resulted in the deaths of many Apache women and children, deepening hostilities.
- By the 1880s, most Apache groups had been confined to reservations, opening the region for more extensive settlement and development.
The Mining Boom and County Formation (1870s–1880s)
Gila County’s most significant historical period began in the 1870s, with the discovery of rich mineral deposits, especially copper and silver, in the region. This era marked the true beginning of widespread settlement and economic growth.
Discovery of Copper and Silver (1870s)
- 1875: The discovery of silver in the Globe Mining District, followed by significant copper finds, led to the establishment of mining towns like Globe and Miami.
- Globe became the focal point of mining activity, and its proximity to rich ore deposits led to rapid population growth.
County Formation and Early Development (1881)
- 1881: Gila County was officially established on February 8, separating from Pinal and Maricopa counties. Globe was designated the county seat due to its growing importance in the mining industry.
- The county’s early economy was heavily reliant on mining, and the influx of miners, ranchers, and entrepreneurs quickly transformed the region into a bustling hub.
The Growth of Mining and Railroads (1890s–1920s)
The end of the 19th century and the early 20th century saw Gila County continue to grow as mining operations expanded, and infrastructure, including railroads, began to link the county to the rest of Arizona.
Expansion of Mining (1890s–1920s)
- 1890s: Major mining companies like Old Dominion Mining Company in Globe and the Miami Copper Company in Miami capitalized on the demand for copper, helping to establish Gila County as one of the leading copper producers in the United States.
- The arrival of railroads in the early 1900s allowed for easier transport of copper and other minerals, further spurring the growth of towns like Globe and Miami.
Cultural and Social Development (1900s)
- 1905: The completion of the Roosevelt Dam, located on the Salt River near Gila County, improved water management and provided electricity to mining operations, encouraging further economic growth.
- 1912: Arizona gained statehood, and Gila County played a key role in the new state’s economic development through its mineral wealth.
Decline of Mining and Economic Diversification (1930s–Present)
While mining remained a key industry, Gila County saw a decline in mining activities throughout the 20th century as ore deposits were depleted, and the Great Depression took its toll on local economies. However, the county diversified its economy and became a center for tourism, recreation, and ranching.
The Great Depression and World War II (1930s–1940s)
- 1930s: The Great Depression significantly impacted Gila County’s economy, causing mine closures and layoffs. Many residents turned to ranching and agriculture to sustain themselves.
- 1940s: World War II temporarily revived copper mining as demand surged, but the post-war period saw a steady decline in the industry.
Economic Diversification (1950s–2000s)
- 1950s–1960s: Tourism and recreation began to play a more significant role in the local economy. The creation of Roosevelt Lake and the development of the Tonto National Forest as a prime destination for hiking, camping, and fishing brought visitors from across the state.
- The construction of new roads and highways made the area more accessible, boosting the economy through increased tourism.
Environmental Preservation and Modern Gila County (2000s–Present)
- 2000s–Present: As mining continued to decline, Gila County embraced its natural beauty and historical significance, turning towards tourism and conservation. Tonto National Monument, the Besh-Ba-Gowah Archaeological Park, and Roosevelt Lake remain popular attractions.
- The county also promotes outdoor recreation activities like hiking, fishing, and camping in the vast wilderness areas surrounding Globe and Payson.
Sources for Gila County History
To dive deeper into Gila County’s rich history, these landmarks and institutions are great resources:
- Gila County Historical Museum in Globe
- Besh-Ba-Gowah Archaeological Park in Globe
- Tonto National Monument for pre-Columbian history
- Tonto National Forest for outdoor activities and historical exploration
