Greenlee County Historical Museum: A Window to Arizona's Copper Heritage

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Discover Greenlee County's rich copper mining history, diverse cultures, and pioneer stories at this historical museum in Clifton, Arizona.

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Greenlee County Historical

Located in Clifton, Arizona, the Greenlee County Historical Museum showcases the rich history of this southeastern Arizona county, with a focus on its copper mining legacy, ranching traditions, and the diverse cultures that shaped the region. Housed in the former City Hall building dating back to 1913, the museum offers a glimpse into the past through artifacts, photographs, and exhibits.

A brief summary to Greenlee County Historical

299 Chase Creek St, Clifton, Arizona, 85533, US
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Saturday 12 pm-4 pm

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Greenlee County Historical.

The museum is only open on Saturdays from 12 PM to 4 PM, so plan your visit accordingly.
If you can't make it on Saturday, call one of the board members listed on the museum door to schedule a visit.
Explore the historic Chase Creek district, where the museum is located, to experience the atmosphere of a Wild West mining town.
Check out the Clifton Visitor Center for more information about Greenlee County and its attractions.

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Getting There

Walking

From the Clifton Visitor Center at 100 North Coronado Blvd, head east on Coronado Blvd/US-191 N/AZ-666 N. Turn right onto Chase Creek Street. The Greenlee County Historical Museum will be on your right at 299 Chase Creek St. The walk is approximately 0.7 miles and should take about 15 minutes.
Public Transport

The closest public transportation option is the bus from Safford to Clifton. From the bus stop in Clifton, head east on AZ-666 N for about 0.3 miles, then turn right onto Chase Creek St and walk for about 0.5 miles until you reach the Greenlee County Historical Museum. Bus schedules and fares vary.

Discover more about Greenlee County Historical

The Greenlee County Historical Museum, situated in the heart of Clifton's historic Chase Creek, provides a fascinating look into the area's vibrant past. Greenlee County, established in 1909, owes much of its development to the copper mining industry, and the museum vividly portrays this heritage.The museum's exhibits feature a diverse collection of artifacts, including turn-of-the-century clothing, housewares, and Native American artifacts. A highlight is the 1915 geological relief model, which depicts the locations of former mining towns like Metcalf and Morenci. Visitors can also explore exhibits dedicated to ranching, an integral part of Greenlee County's identity, complete with old saddles and a blacksmith's shop.Beyond mining and ranching, the museum highlights the cultural tapestry of Greenlee County, shaped by a mix of pioneers and immigrants. The museum also features paintings by artists Ted DeGrazia and Hal Empie. The building itself, the former Clifton City Hall, adds to the historical ambiance. A gift shop offers visitors the chance to take home a piece of history.While in Clifton, take the time to explore the surrounding area, including the historic Chase Creek district and the scenic Coronado Trail.