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Iron Man: Bisbee's Copper Miner Tribute

A tribute to Bisbee's mining heritage, the Iron Man statue stands as a symbol of the town's rich history and the miners who built it.

The Iron Man statue, officially the Courthouse Plaza Miners' Monument, stands as a tribute to the copper miners who shaped Bisbee, Arizona's history. Despite its name, the statue isn't made of iron but concrete wrapped in copper wire, created in 1935 by artist R. Phillips Sanderson. It's a prominent landmark and photo opportunity in this historic mining town.

A brief summary to Iron Man

  • Bisbee, Arizona, US

Local tips

  • Take a stroll around the courthouse plaza to enjoy other historical landmarks and the unique architecture of Bisbee.
  • Bring your camera! The Iron Man statue offers a great photo opportunity with the scenic backdrop of Bisbee.
  • Check out local events; the statue is often decorated for holidays and celebrations.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    If you're in downtown Bisbee, start at the Bisbee Visitor Center on Main Street. Head south on Main Street until you reach Arizona Street, then turn left. Continue to Tombstone Canyon Road and turn right, following it uphill. The Iron Man statue will be on a small hill.

  • Public Transport

    Bisbee has limited public transportation. Check with local taxi services or rideshare apps like Uber for transport options. Provide the driver with the address 'Bisbee, AZ 85603' and ask to be taken near the Cochise County Courthouse. From there, it's a short walk uphill to the statue.

  • Driving

    From Highway 80, turn onto Quality Hill Road. Follow Quality Hill Road, and you'll find the Iron Man statue near the Cochise County Courthouse. Parking is available in the area, but it can be limited, especially during weekends and local events. Consider parking in public lots in downtown Bisbee and walking up.

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Discover more about Iron Man

The Iron Man statue, also known as the Virile Copper Miner or Copper Man, is officially named the Courthouse Plaza Miners' Monument. This monument pays homage to the copper miners whose hard work and dedication contributed significantly to the development of Bisbee and the wealth of Arizona. Created in 1935 by local artist R. Phillips Sanderson, the statue is a unique piece of art. Sanderson used a novel technique, wrapping a concrete form with nearly 200 pounds of copper wire and then applying a copper plating finish. Contrary to its name, the statue contains neither iron nor solid copper. The physique of the statue was modeled after Bisbee resident Lee Petrovitch. The statue is located on a small hill near the Cochise County Courthouse. Over the years, the Iron Man has become a beloved symbol of Bisbee, often adorned with festive decorations by locals for various occasions, from Christmas hats to football jerseys. The plaque at the base reads: "To Those Virile Men The Copper Miners Whose contribution to the development of the wealth and lore of the state of Arizona has been magnificent – Erected by the Citizens of the Warren Mining District this Eleventh Day of November A.D. 1935”.

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