Bisbee: The Hidden Gem of Arizona

• HelloHowdy
  [hau-dee]
• GoodbyeSee ya later
  [see yuh lay-tur]
• YesYup
  [yuhp]
• NoNope
  [nohp]
• Please/You're welcomePlease/No problem
  [pleez/noh proh-blem]
• Thank youThanks
  [thanks]
• Excuse me/SorryPardon me/My bad
  [pahr-dn mee/my bad]
• How are you?Howdy
  [hau-dee]
• Fine. And you?Fine. And you?
  [fahyn. and yuh?]
• Do you speak English?You speak English?
  [yuh speek ing-glish?]
• I don't understandI don't get it
  [ahy dohnt get it]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseI wanna check out the menu, please
  [ahy wah-nuh chek out thee men-yoo, pleez]
• I don't eat meatI don't eat meat
  [ahy dohnt eet meet]
• Cheers!Cheers!
  [cheers]
• I would like to pay, pleaseI wanna settle up, please
  [ahy wah-nuh set-ul uhp, pleez]

• Help!Help!
  [help]
• Go away!Get lost!
  [get lost]
• Call the Police!Call the cops!
  [kawl thee cops]
• Call a doctor!Get me a doc!
  [get mee uh dahk]
• I'm lostI'm lost
  [ahy'm lost]
• I'm illI'm sick
  [ahy'm sik]

• I'd like to buy...I wanna buy...
  [ahy wah-nuh bahy...]
• I'm just lookingI'm just browsing
  [ahym just broh-zing]
• How much is it?How much does it cost?
  [hau much duhz it kawst?]
• That's too expensiveThat's way pricey
  [thats way pry-see]
• Can you lower the price?Can ya make it cheaper?
  [kan yuh meyk it chee-per?]

• What time is it?What time is it?
  [what tyme iz it?]
• It's one o'clockIt's one o'clock
  [its wuhn aw-klok]
• Half past (10)Half past (10)
  [hahf past (ten)]
• MorningMorning
  [mawr-ning]
• AfternoonAfternoon
  [af-ter-noon]
• EveningEvening
  [ee-ven-ing]
• YesterdayYesterday
  [yest-er-day]
• TodayToday
  [tuh-day]
• TomorrowTomorrow
  [tuh-mor-row]
• 11
  [wuhn]
• 22
  [too]
• 33
  [three]
• 44
  [fawr]
• 55
  [fahyv]
• 66
  [siks]
• 77
  [sev-uhn]
• 88
  [eyt]
• 99
  [nine]
• 1010
  [ten]

• Where's a/the...?Where's the...?
  [wheres thee...?]
• What's the address?What's the address?
  [whuts thee uh-dress?]
• Can you show me (on the map)?Can ya show me (on the map)?
  [kan yuh show mee (on thee map)?]
• When's the next (bus)?When's the next (bus)?
  [whens thee nekst (bus)?]
• A ticket (to ....)A ticket (to ....)
  [uh tik-it (tu ....)]

In 1877, a U.S. Army scout named Jack Dunn made a significant discovery in the Mule Mountains of southeastern Arizona. Dunn found promising signs of mineral wealth, leading to the establishment of the Copper Queen Mine. This discovery marked the beginning of Bisbee's transformation from a remote, rugged area into a thriving mining town.

Bisbee was officially founded in 1880 and named after Judge DeWitt Bisbee, a financial backer of the Copper Queen Mine. The town quickly grew as word spread of its rich mineral deposits, attracting miners and entrepreneurs from across the country. By the early 20th century, Bisbee had become one of the most productive mining towns in the United States.

The Lavender Pit is an open-pit copper mine named after Harrison M. Lavender, the vice-president and general manager of Phelps Dodge Corporation. Opened in 1950, the pit was a significant source of copper until its closure in 1974. Today, the Lavender Pit is a striking landmark, offering a glimpse into Bisbee's industrial past.

One of the most notorious events in Bisbee's history is the Bisbee Deportation of 1917. During a labor strike organized by the Industrial Workers of the World (IWW), over 1,300 striking miners were forcibly rounded up by a posse organized by the mining companies. The miners were loaded onto cattle cars and deported to New Mexico, an act that remains a contentious chapter in labor history.

By the mid-20th century, the demand for copper began to wane, and Bisbee's mining industry started to decline. In 1975, Phelps Dodge closed the Copper Queen Mine, marking the end of large-scale mining operations in the town. Despite this, Bisbee managed to reinvent itself as a cultural and artistic hub, attracting tourists and new residents with its historic charm and vibrant community.

Following the decline of its mining industry, Bisbee faced economic hardships and a dwindling population. However, the town experienced a revival in the late 20th century as artists, musicians, and free spirits moved in, drawn by Bisbee's unique character and affordable living. Today, Bisbee is known for its thriving arts scene, historic architecture, and eclectic culture.

Bisbee's rich history is preserved through its well-maintained historic districts and buildings. The town's architectural heritage, including Victorian-style homes and early 20th-century commercial buildings, has earned it a place on the National Register of Historic Places. Visitors can explore Bisbee's storied past through its museums, guided tours, and annual events celebrating the town's mining legacy.

Today, Bisbee is a vibrant town with a blend of historical charm and modern creativity. The town hosts numerous festivals, art galleries, and cultural events that celebrate its diverse heritage. The Copper Queen Library, one of the oldest continuously operating public libraries in Arizona, and the Bisbee Mining & Historical Museum, an affiliate of the Smithsonian Institution, offer insights into Bisbee's storied past and present.

Bisbee is located in the southeastern corner of Arizona, near the Mexican border. The nearest major airport is Tucson International Airport, approximately 90 miles northwest of Bisbee. From Tucson, you can rent a car and drive to Bisbee in about 1.5 to 2 hours via Interstate 10 and Arizona State Route 80. Alternatively, you can take a Greyhound bus to Benson and then a local shuttle or taxi to Bisbee.

Bisbee is a small town, and many of its attractions are within walking distance. For longer trips within the town or to nearby areas, local taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available. If you prefer more freedom, renting a car is a convenient option. There is limited public transportation, so having a car will make it easier to explore the surrounding areas.

The official currency in Bisbee, like the rest of the United States, is the US Dollar (USD). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants, and shops. ATMs are available throughout the town for cash withdrawals. It's advisable to carry some cash, especially for small establishments and local markets.

Bisbee is generally a safe destination for tourists. However, like any travel destination, it is important to take standard precautions. Avoid walking alone at night in poorly lit or unfamiliar areas. Keep an eye on your belongings, especially in crowded places. Bisbee does not have any specific high-crime areas targeting tourists, but always stay vigilant and aware of your surroundings.

In case of emergency, dial 911 for immediate assistance. The local police station and medical facilities are available in Bisbee. Copper Queen Community Hospital is the primary medical facility in the area. It is recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. For minor health issues, there are pharmacies in the town where you can purchase over-the-counter medications.

Fashion: Do dress comfortably and wear good walking shoes, as Bisbee's terrain can be hilly and uneven. Avoid overly revealing clothing. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions. Bisbee is home to several historic churches, so dress modestly if you plan to visit them. Public Transport: Do plan ahead, as public transportation options are limited. Renting a car is generally more convenient. Greetings: Do greet people with a friendly 'Hello' or 'Hi'. Bisbee residents are known for their friendliness. Eating & Drinking: Do try local eateries and cafes, as they offer unique and delicious options. Don't forget to tip your servers, as it is customary in the United States.

To experience Bisbee like a local, take a stroll through the historic downtown area and explore its unique shops, art galleries, and cafes. Visit the Bisbee Mining & Historical Museum to learn about the town's rich history. Engage with locals, as they are often friendly and willing to share stories about the town's past. Don't miss the annual Bisbee 1000 Stair Climb, a unique fitness challenge that takes you through the town's historic staircases. Also, consider taking a ghost tour to explore Bisbee's haunted history.