Bonelli House: A Glimpse into Kingman's Past

The Bonelli House, located in the heart of Kingman's Historic District, offers a captivating glimpse into the life of a prominent Arizona family in the early 20th century. Built in 1915 by contractor Pendergrast for George and Effie Bonelli, it stands as a testament to Anglo-territorial architecture and the enduring spirit of Kingman's pioneers.George Bonelli, son of Swiss immigrants, was a successful businessman and rancher. He built the original wooden-frame house in 1894 as a wedding gift for his wife, Effie Tarr. Tragically, that home was destroyed by a fire in 1915. Undeterred, Bonelli constructed the current two-story home using local Tufa stone and fire-resistant materials. The rebuilt home included an exit door from every room to the veranda, and a cupola to draft hot desert air upward and out of the roof.The Bonelli House remained the family's epicenter for two generations. The house is furnished with period pieces from circa 1900-1955, including original Bonelli family possessions such as clothing, accessories, art, books, and remnants of family treasures. The seventh child, Joseph, lived in the house until his death. In 1973, the City of Kingman acquired the home and it was turned into a museum as part of the United States Bicentennial Project, opening to the public in 1978.Visitors can explore the rooms, admire the architecture, and learn about the Bonelli family's impact on Kingman. Knowledgeable tour guides share stories and historical context, providing insights into pioneer life and the activities of the day. The house also features three antique clocks, including the Waterbury Regulator clock (circa 1890) that was the first timepiece in Kingman and was loaned to the Santa Fe Railroad depot office.