Bisbee was founded in 1880, following the discovery of rich copper deposits in the Mule Mountains. The town was named after Judge DeWitt Bisbee, a financial backer of the Copper Queen Mine. The Copper Queen Mine, one of the largest copper mines in the world at the time, quickly became the economic engine of the town. The mine employed thousands of workers and attracted miners from all over the world.
By the turn of the century, Bisbee had grown into a bustling city with a population of over 20,000 people. The city was home to numerous saloons, brothels, and gambling halls, catering to the miners and their families. The city also had a reputation for being one of the most lawless towns in the west, with a high crime rate and frequent shootouts.
The city’s prosperity was short-lived, however. In 1917, the miners in Bisbee went on strike, demanding better working conditions and higher wages. The strike quickly turned violent, with the mining company hiring vigilantes to intimidate and attack the striking workers. The strike was eventually broken, but the town never fully recovered. By the 1920s, many of the mines in Bisbee had closed, and the city’s population had declined significantly.
Despite the decline, Bisbee continued to attract artists and writers, who were drawn to the town’s quirky charm and rugged beauty. In the 1960s and 1970s, Bisbee became known as a haven for counterculture artists and musicians. The town’s historic district, with its ornate Victorian architecture, became a popular destination for tourists.
Today, Bisbee is a vibrant community of artists, writers, and retirees. The town’s historic district has been carefully preserved, and visitors can take a stroll through the winding streets, admiring the colorful homes and charming storefronts. The Copper Queen Mine, which is now a National Historic Landmark, offers tours that take visitors deep into the heart of the mine.
In recent years, Bisbee has become known for its annual Bisbee 1000 Stair Climb, a grueling race that takes participants up and down the town’s numerous staircases. The race, which has been held since 1990, attracts thousands of participants from all over the world.
Bisbee’s history is a testament to the resilience and adaptability of small towns in America. Despite facing numerous challenges over the years, Bisbee has managed to reinvent itself time and time again, attracting new generations of artists, writers, and adventurers. The town’s rich history and unique charm continue to draw visitors from all over the world, making it a beloved destination for anyone seeking to experience the rugged beauty of the American West.
