Globe

Globe, Arizona, is a historic mining town cradled by the Tonto National Forest, offering a compelling blend of Old West character, Native American legacy, and rugged natural splendor. Situated at an elevation of approximately 3,500 feet, it provides a slightly cooler respite from the intense Arizona summers. The city's origins trace back to 1875, established as a mining camp after a unique globe-shaped piece of silver was unearthed. While silver initially drew prospectors, copper quickly became the dominant force, shaping Globe's identity and economy for over a century.

Today, Globe serves as the county seat of Gila County and a portal to a diverse range of experiences. Its historic downtown, listed on the National Register of Historic Places, invites visitors to wander among well-preserved buildings, browse antique shops, and absorb the atmosphere of a bygone era. Beyond the town's core, the surrounding landscapes offer ample opportunities for outdoor adventure, from exploring ancient Salado pueblo ruins to hiking in the Pinal Mountains or enjoying water activities at Roosevelt Lake. Globe is more than just a stop along the road; it's a destination where the echoes of miners, outlaws, and early settlers resonate through its streets and stories.

## From Silver Nugget to Copper King Globe's story begins in 1875 with the discovery of silver, including a distinctive globe-shaped nugget that reputedly gave the town its name. This initial silver rush led to the establishment of a mining camp, which was officially planned as Globe City in July 1876. The town quickly grew, with its first newspaper appearing in 1878, and by 1881, Globe had become the county seat for Gila County.

However, the silver deposits proved to be short-lived, playing out within a few years. Fortunately for Globe, vast copper deposits were then discovered, fundamentally shifting the town's economic focus. The Old Dominion Copper Company, formed around 1880, became a powerhouse, and by the early 1900s, it was one of the richest copper mines in the world. This prosperity fueled significant development, with much of the historic central business district taking shape between 1904 and 1920. Unlike many other Arizona mining towns, Globe never had a company store, fostering a more independent and diverse downtown.

Globe's development was further boosted by the arrival of a Southern Pacific railroad spur in 1898 and the construction of the Apache Trail in 1905, connecting it to Mesa and the Roosevelt Dam site. By 1920, the Globe district contributed over 30% of Arizona's total copper output, solidifying the state's position as the nation's top copper producer. The town's population peaked around 1930 with 11,000 residents. However, the closure of the Old Dominion Mine in 1931 led to a population decline, with much of the mining activity shifting to nearby Miami.

## Echoes of the Wild West Globe's relative isolation and proximity to the San Carlos Apache reservation ensured its status as a true frontier town, marked by a colorful history of stagecoach robberies, outlaws, and even lynchings. Notable figures like Big Nose Kate, Doc Holliday's wife, lived in Globe during her separation from him, and the town also has connections to Geronimo and the Apache Kid.

## Architectural Heritage Fires and floods destroyed many of Globe's earlier adobe and frame buildings, leading to the construction of more substantial structures during its copper boom. Today, the downtown area showcases impressive examples of Neoclassical Revival and Beaux Arts architecture, constructed from local volcanic stone, brick, and even glazed terra cotta shipped from Chicago. The Gila County Courthouse (1906-07) and the Gila Valley Bank & Trust Building (1909) are prime examples. The Hill Street School, designed by famed Southwestern architect Henry C. Trost, was built in 1920 and has since been redeveloped for senior housing.

Begin your exploration in Historic Downtown Globe, a district recognized on the National Register of Historic Places. Stroll along Broad Street to admire the early 20th-century architecture, including the impressive Gila County Courthouse, a Neoclassical Revival building constructed from locally quarried volcanic stone. Nearby, the Cobre Valley Center for the Arts, housed in the old Gila County Courthouse, showcases local talent and offers a glimpse into the building's past, including a performance stage that was once a courtroom.

Just a mile southwest of town, step back in time at the Besh-Ba-Gowah Archaeological Park. Here, you can explore the partially reconstructed pueblo ruins of the Salado culture, who inhabited the area between 1225 and 1400 AD. The site includes a museum with artifacts, botanical gardens, and self-guided tours.

For a deeper dive into Globe's mining legacy, visit the Old Dominion Historic Mine Park. This former mine site now offers walking and mountain bike trails, historical exhibits, and picnic areas, providing insights into the industry that shaped the region.

Experience Globe's artistic side on the Stairizona Trail, an urban hiking trail featuring 62 public artworks, including murals and painted steps, that wind through historic staircases and across footbridges.

Do not overlook the Gila County Historical Museum, located in the former Mine Rescue Station, which houses an extensive collection of artifacts related to the area's mining, ranching, and Native American history.

The most pleasant times to visit Globe for comfortable weather are from March to mid-May and again from mid-October to mid-November. During these periods, you can expect warm but not oppressive temperatures, low humidity, and ample sunshine, ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities. Summers in Globe (June, July, August) are hot, with average highs often in the 90s Fahrenheit, occasionally exceeding 100°F. Winters are mild and dry, with daytime highs typically between 55°F and 65°F and lows around freezing. The region experiences two distinct dry seasons: February to June and September to November.

Globe is situated at an elevation of approximately 3,500 feet, which contributes to slightly cooler temperatures than the Phoenix summers. When packing, consider layers, especially if you plan to explore the nearby mountains, as weather conditions can change. Comfortable walking shoes are essential for exploring downtown and the various trails.

Cell service is generally reliable within Globe, but it can be limited in the surrounding mountainous areas. Wi-Fi is available at most businesses, and the Globe-Miami Chamber of Commerce offers free internet access.

Getting to Globe by car is straightforward: it's about 87 miles east of Phoenix via US-60 and approximately 106 miles north of Tucson via AZ-77. For local transportation, Cobre Valley Community Transit provides bus service within Globe and Miami, and the San Carlos Apache Transit connects to nearby communities. The San Carlos Apache Airport serves general aviation about 7 miles from the city center.