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The Flying V Cabin: A Glimpse into Arizona's Wild West Past

Step back in time at the Flying V Cabin, a preserved relic of Arizona's Wild West days and the infamous Pleasant Valley War.

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The Flying V Cabin, located at the Pioneer Living History Museum in Phoenix, Arizona, is a relic from the late 19th century. Originally built around 1880 by John Tewksbury in Pleasant Valley, it served as a fortified home during the infamous Pleasant Valley War, also known as the Tewksbury-Graham Feud. Its unique design, featuring gun ports instead of windows, offers a stark reminder of the violence and hardship of frontier life.

A brief summary to The Flying V Cabin

Local tips

  • Visit during the cooler months (October-May) for a more comfortable outdoor experience.
  • Check the Pioneer Living History Museum's website for events and reenactments that bring the history to life.
  • Wear comfortable shoes for walking around the outdoor museum.
  • Bring water and snacks, especially if visiting during warmer weather.
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Getting There

  • Driving

    The Flying V Cabin is located within the Pioneer Living History Museum, off I-17 near Anthem, about 27 miles north of downtown Phoenix. Take I-17 North to Pioneer Road, exit 225. Head west on Pioneer Road. The museum will be on your right. Parking is available at the museum. Parking is free.

  • Public Transport

    While public transportation to the Pioneer Living History Museum is possible, it involves a combination of light rail and bus, with a significant walking distance. From downtown Phoenix, take the Valley Metro Rail to the 'Washington/Central' Station. Transfer to the Valley Metro Bus Route 29 (North on Central Ave) and ride to the 'Cave Creek Rd & Carefree Hwy' stop. From there, it's approximately a 1.5-mile walk north on Cave Creek Rd to East Carefree Highway, then continue on Carefree Highway until you see signs for the Pioneer Living History Museum. A one-way bus or train fare is $2.00. A day pass costs $4.00.

  • Ride Share

    From downtown Phoenix, use a ride-sharing service like Uber or Lyft. Input 'Pioneer Living History Museum' as your destination. The drive is approximately 27 miles and takes around 30-40 minutes, depending on traffic. The estimated cost is $30-$45.

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Discover more about The Flying V Cabin

The Flying V Cabin offers a tangible link to Arizona's turbulent past. Constructed around 1880 by John Tewksbury, Sr., the cabin was strategically built with gun ports to defend against Apache raids and the escalating violence of the Pleasant Valley War. This bloody feud, one of the deadliest in American history, pitted the Tewksbury and Graham families against each other in a conflict fueled by cattle theft accusations and simmering tensions. Originally located in Pleasant Valley (now Young, Arizona), the Flying V Cabin was more than just a home; it was a fortress. The absence of windows, replaced by narrow slits for gunfire, speaks volumes about the constant threat of violence that defined life on the frontier. The Tewksbury family, at the center of the conflict, faced not only attacks from rival families but also the challenges of surviving in a harsh and unforgiving environment. Today, the Flying V Cabin stands as a preserved exhibit at the Pioneer Living History Museum in North Phoenix. Visitors can walk through this original 19th-century structure and imagine life in the Arizona Territory, gaining insight into the struggles and resilience of the pioneers who shaped the state's history. The museum setting enhances the experience, offering a broader context of pioneer life with other historical buildings and exhibits. While the cabin itself is not open for interior tours, the exterior design and the scenic views are rewarding enough for a visit.

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