History of Tombstone
Arizona Travel Guide brings you the story of the history of Tombstone, from its found through the gunfight at the OK Corral and Tombstone today.
Tombstone, Arizona, a small town located in Cochise County, holds a significant place in American history. Known for its rich mining heritage and infamous gunfight at the O.K. Corral, Tombstone has become a symbol of the Wild West. Let’s look into the history of Tombstone, highlighting the significant events that have shaped the town over the years.
History of Tombstone
The story of Tombstone begins in the late 1870s when Ed Schieffelin, a prospector, discovered silver in the area. Despite warnings from others that he would only find his tombstone in the desert, Schieffelin persisted and named his claim “Tombstone.” This marked the beginning of a mining boom that would transform the region.
In 1879, Tombstone was officially founded and quickly grew into a bustling town. The population soared as miners, prospectors, and entrepreneurs flocked to the area in search of their fortunes. The town’s economy thrived, and by the early 1880s, Tombstone had become one of the largest and wealthiest cities in the American Southwest.
Gunfight at the O.K. Corral
However, Tombstone’s prosperity was not without its challenges. The town was plagued by lawlessness and violence, earning a reputation as a rough and tumble frontier town. This reputation was solidified on October 26, 1881, with the infamous gunfight at the O.K. Corral.
The gunfight, involving lawmen Wyatt Earp, his brothers Virgil and Morgan, and their friend Doc Holliday, pitted them against a group of outlaws known as the “Cowboys.” The gunfight lasted only 30 seconds but resulted in three deaths and several injuries. This event became one of the most famous gunfights in American history and cemented Tombstone’s place in the annals of the Wild West.
Following the gunfight, tensions in Tombstone escalated. Virgil Earp, the town’s marshal, was ambushed and severely wounded, and Morgan Earp was assassinated. These events led to a series of retaliatory actions known as the “Earp Vendetta Ride,” as Wyatt Earp and his allies sought justice for their fallen comrades.
Despite the violence, Tombstone continued to prosper. The town boasted numerous saloons, theaters, and gambling halls, attracting a diverse population of cowboys, miners, and businessmen. The Bird Cage Theatre, one of Tombstone’s most famous establishments, offered entertainment ranging from theater performances to illegal gambling.
However, Tombstone’s mining boom began to decline in the mid-1880s. The silver veins that had brought prosperity to the town started to run dry, leading to a gradual decline in population and economic activity. By the early 1900s, Tombstone had become a ghost town, with only a fraction of its former glory remaining.
Tombstone Today
In the decades that followed, Tombstone experienced a revival of sorts. The town’s historical significance and Wild West charm attracted tourists and history enthusiasts. Efforts were made to preserve and restore the town’s historic buildings, including the O.K. Corral and the Bird Cage Theatre. Today, Tombstone is a popular tourist destination, offering visitors a glimpse into the past and a chance to experience the Wild West firsthand.
In conclusion, the history of Tombstone, Arizona, is a tale of boom and bust, lawlessness and violence, and ultimately, preservation and revival. From its humble beginnings as a mining camp to its status as a symbol of the Wild West, Tombstone has left an indelible mark on American history. The town’s significant events, such as the gunfight at the O.K. Corral, have become legendary, attracting visitors from around the world. Tombstone stands as a testament to the spirit of the Wild West and the enduring allure of the American frontier.
