History

Prescott was founded in 1864 as the Territorial Capital before Arizona even became a state. When gold was discovered, the town drew miners and adventurers seeking their fortune. The World’s Oldest Rodeo got its start in 1888, writing the rules of modern rodeo, and placing its brand indelibly upon the character of Prescott and eventually spawning over 700 professional rodeos in 50 states. Prescott’s history is so colorful and fascinating, that early pioneer Sharlot Hall made it her life’s mission to create a museum and preserve as many documents and memorabilia as she could for future generations.

1863

• February 24, 1863 — President Lincoln signs Organic Act creating the Arizona Territory
• May 10, 1863 — Walker Party forms Pioneer Mining District
• September 19, 1863 — Surveyor General Clark reports on the new diggings in Arizona
• December 23, 1863 — Fort Whipple is founded in Chino Valley
• December 29, 1863 — Governor Goodwin’s Proclamation at Navajo Springs

1864

• January 22, 1864 — Governor Goodwin’s party arrives at Ft. Whipple in Chino Valley
• January 27, 1864 — Battle of Bloody Tanks
• February 18, 1864 — Governor Goodwin’s territorial tour begins
• March 9, 1864 — First edition of Prescott Miner published as predecessor to the Courier
• April-May, 1864 — Special census taken
• May 18, 1864 — Ft. Whipple established along Granite Creek as headquarters of the District of Arizona and the former site renamed Camp Clark in honor of Surveyor General Clark
• May 24, 1864 —  Governor Goodwin calls for territorial elections
• May 30, 1864 — City of Prescott named
• July 4, 1864 — First Arizona Territory Fourth of July celebrated at Prescott
• July 18, 1864 — Territorial elections
• August 24, 1864 — Results of the election of first delegate to Congress announced
• September 26, 1864 — First legislature meets
• October 4, 1864 — Howell Code is adopted
• November 8, 1864 — Territorial legislature creates four counties (Mohave, Pima, Yavapai, and Yuma)