Prescott
Everybody's Hometown
Virgil Earp was elected as constable for Prescott in 1878. Courtesy of Sharlot Hall Museum Library
Prescott
Population: 46,000 (2020 Census)
Population: 46,000 (2020 Census)
1864: Founding of Prescott
Founded in 1864, Prescott became the first capital of the Arizona Territory. Its location near Granite Creek made it a strategic settlement hub, and Fort Whipple, established the same year, helped secure the area during the Apache Wars. Prescott’s early growth was bolstered by its role as a military and governmental center.
Founded in 1864, Prescott became the first capital of the Arizona Territory. Its location near Granite Creek made it a strategic settlement hub, and Fort Whipple, established the same year, helped secure the area during the Apache Wars. Prescott’s early growth was bolstered by its role as a military and governmental center.
1864: Seat of Government for the Arizona Territory
Prescott quickly became the official seat of government for the new territory, hosting key government functions and solidifying its regional importance.
1870s-1880s: The Earp Brothers and the Wild West
Prescott became known for its Wild West connections, with figures like Wyatt Earp and Doc Holliday passing through. Virgil Earp even served as Prescott's town constable during this time.
1889: Loss of Territorial Capital Status
In 1889, the capital was moved to Phoenix, leading to an economic shift as businesses and government functions relocated.
1900: The Great Prescott Fire
On July 14, 1900, Prescott experienced the Great Prescott Fire, which destroyed much of downtown, including Whiskey Row. The men of Prescott saved The Palace Bar and its ice chest by moving them to the town square while Whiskey Row burned. The Palace Bar was later rebuilt and reinstalled, where it stands today.
1935: The World’s Oldest Rodeo
Prescott’s World’s Oldest Rodeo, established in 1888 and officially recognized in 1935, continues to be a beloved tradition and major event each July.
1960s–1980s: Cultural and Economic Revival
In the mid-20th century, Prescott experienced a cultural and economic resurgence. The town attracted artists and creatives, fueling a thriving arts community. Prescott embraced its rich history while promoting the arts, becoming a center for both historical preservation and artistic expression. The town’s focus was not just on Western heritage, but also on diverse artistic forms, from traditional to indigenous to contemporary.
2013: The Yarnell Hill Fire and the Granite Mountain Hotshots
In 2013, the Granite Mountain Hotshots tragically lost 19 of their members battling the Yarnell Hill Fire, a pivotal moment in Prescott’s modern history. The town honors their bravery through memorials and tributes.
1990s-Present: Growth and Development
Since the 1990s, Prescott has steadily grown, preserving its historic charm while embracing modern development. The town has maintained its role as a destination for those drawn to its arts, history, and outdoor opportunities, attracting new residents and visitors who appreciate its unique blend of small-town charm and accessibility to nature.
Today’s Vibe
Prescott is known for its historic charm, vibrant arts community, and rich musical scene. From jazz to country, the town showcases a diverse array of musical talent, with live performances almost every night of the week. The lively atmosphere makes Prescott a popular destination for both adventure and culture.
Points of Interest
- Courthouse Plaza – The historic heart of Prescott, surrounded by Victorian-era buildings and the Yavapai County Courthouse.
- Whiskey Row – Famous for its saloons and Wild West history.
- Sharlot Hall Museum – Dedicated to Prescott’s early role as the territorial capital.
- Prescott National Forest – Offers hiking, camping, and wildlife viewing.
- The World’s Oldest Rodeo – Prescott’s cherished rodeo, running since 1888.
- Prescott’s Music Scene – Local venues host a variety of live performances, creating a vibrant atmosphere.
Prescott quickly became the official seat of government for the new territory, hosting key government functions and solidifying its regional importance.
1870s-1880s: The Earp Brothers and the Wild West
Prescott became known for its Wild West connections, with figures like Wyatt Earp and Doc Holliday passing through. Virgil Earp even served as Prescott's town constable during this time.
1889: Loss of Territorial Capital Status
In 1889, the capital was moved to Phoenix, leading to an economic shift as businesses and government functions relocated.
1900: The Great Prescott Fire
On July 14, 1900, Prescott experienced the Great Prescott Fire, which destroyed much of downtown, including Whiskey Row. The men of Prescott saved The Palace Bar and its ice chest by moving them to the town square while Whiskey Row burned. The Palace Bar was later rebuilt and reinstalled, where it stands today.
1935: The World’s Oldest Rodeo
Prescott’s World’s Oldest Rodeo, established in 1888 and officially recognized in 1935, continues to be a beloved tradition and major event each July.
1960s–1980s: Cultural and Economic Revival
In the mid-20th century, Prescott experienced a cultural and economic resurgence. The town attracted artists and creatives, fueling a thriving arts community. Prescott embraced its rich history while promoting the arts, becoming a center for both historical preservation and artistic expression. The town’s focus was not just on Western heritage, but also on diverse artistic forms, from traditional to indigenous to contemporary.
2013: The Yarnell Hill Fire and the Granite Mountain Hotshots
In 2013, the Granite Mountain Hotshots tragically lost 19 of their members battling the Yarnell Hill Fire, a pivotal moment in Prescott’s modern history. The town honors their bravery through memorials and tributes.
1990s-Present: Growth and Development
Since the 1990s, Prescott has steadily grown, preserving its historic charm while embracing modern development. The town has maintained its role as a destination for those drawn to its arts, history, and outdoor opportunities, attracting new residents and visitors who appreciate its unique blend of small-town charm and accessibility to nature.
Today’s Vibe
Prescott is known for its historic charm, vibrant arts community, and rich musical scene. From jazz to country, the town showcases a diverse array of musical talent, with live performances almost every night of the week. The lively atmosphere makes Prescott a popular destination for both adventure and culture.
Points of Interest
- Courthouse Plaza – The historic heart of Prescott, surrounded by Victorian-era buildings and the Yavapai County Courthouse.
- Whiskey Row – Famous for its saloons and Wild West history.
- Sharlot Hall Museum – Dedicated to Prescott’s early role as the territorial capital.
- Prescott National Forest – Offers hiking, camping, and wildlife viewing.
- The World’s Oldest Rodeo – Prescott’s cherished rodeo, running since 1888.
- Prescott’s Music Scene – Local venues host a variety of live performances, creating a vibrant atmosphere.