Historic Sites
- Things to Do
- Historic Sites
Walk Through the History of the Gila Valley
The story of the Gila Valley stretches back centuries, shaped by Native American cultures, frontier soldiers, pioneer settlers, ranchers, farmers, educators, and community builders. Today, visitors can explore historic sites and landmarks that tell the story of how Graham County became one of southeastern Arizona’s most unique regions.
From Arizona’s oldest community college to the original county seat and important cultural landmarks, these places help preserve the heritage, traditions, and stories that continue to shape the Gila Valley today.
Solomonville
Historic District
Before Safford became the county seat, Solomonville served as the center of government for Graham County. The community remains one of the valley’s most historically significant locations and is home to the historic Graham County Courthouse.
Highlights
- Original Graham County seat
- Historic courthouse
- Early pioneer settlement
- Important agricultural history
Graham County Historical Society Museum
Located in Thatcher, the museum preserves the stories, artifacts, photographs, and exhibits that tell the history of the Gila Valley.
Highlights
- Pioneer exhibits
- Agricultural history
- Mining displays
- Historic photographs
- Local artifacts
Historic Downtown Safford
Downtown Safford offers a glimpse into the valley’s growth during the early 20th century. Historic buildings, local businesses, and community landmarks continue to reflect the city’s rich heritage.
Highlights
- Historic architecture
- Local shops and businesses
- Community events
- Public art and murals
Eastern Arizona College
Founded in 1888, Eastern Arizona College is Arizona’s oldest community college. For more than a century, the institution has played a major role in the educational, cultural, and economic development of the region.
Highlights
- Founded in 1888
- Arizona’s oldest community college
- Historic campus buildings
- Cultural and community events
Fort Thomas Historic Area
Established during Arizona’s frontier era, Fort Thomas played an important role in the settlement and development of eastern Arizona. Today, the community remains an important piece of the region’s history.
Highlights
- Frontier military history
- Apache Wars connections
- Historic settlement area
- Agricultural heritage
The Stories That Shaped the Valley
Native American Heritage
Long before modern communities existed, Native American peoples lived, traveled, and thrived throughout the region.
Pioneer Settlement
Families seeking opportunity helped establish many of the communities that remain at the heart of the Gila Valley today.
Agriculture & Irrigation
The development of irrigation systems transformed the valley into one of Arizona’s most productive agricultural regions.
Faith & Community
Churches, schools, civic organizations, and local traditions helped build the strong community spirit that continues to define the valley.
Discover the Past, Experience the Present
Eastern Arizona College, founded in 1888, is Arizona's oldest community college and has played a significant role in educating generations of students throughout southeastern Arizona.
Solomonville is one of the county's most historically significant locations, serving as the original county seat of Graham County and home to the historic courthouse.
The Gila Valley is home to eight historic communities, each contributing its own unique traditions, heritage, and stories to the region's identity.
The Graham County Historical Society Museum offers exhibits, artifacts, photographs, and educational resources that help preserve more than a century of local history.
The region's story spans generations of history, from Native American cultures and Apache heritage to pioneer settlements, agriculture, education, and modern-day communities.
Agriculture has helped shape the Gila Valley for well over a century, transforming the region into one of Arizona's most productive farming areas and influencing the growth of many local communities.
Yes. Historic buildings, churches, schools, courthouses, and community landmarks can be found throughout communities including Safford, Solomonville, Thatcher, Pima, and Fort Thomas.
Historic sites offer a deeper understanding of the people, traditions, and events that helped shape Graham County while providing a unique glimpse into the culture and heritage of southeastern Arizona.