Jerome Historic Disrict, Prescott National Forest Travel Guide

The Jerome Historic District, a National Historic Landmark, encompasses the former mining community of Jerome, Arizona. Founded in the late 19th century to exploit rich copper deposits, Jerome quickly grew into a bustling town, reaching its peak in the early 20th century. It was once the fourth-largest city in Arizona, known as the "Billion Dollar Copper Camp" and even the "Wickedest Town in the West".However, Jerome's fortunes declined with the exhaustion of its ore lodes. The mines closed for good in 1953, leading to a mass exodus and leaving Jerome a near ghost town. But the town's story didn't end there. In the 1960s and 70s, artists and free spirits began to revitalize Jerome, drawn by its unique charm and affordable real estate.Today, the Jerome Historic District retains much of the look and feel of an early 20th-century mining town, with buildings clinging to the steep slopes of Cleopatra Hill. Visitors can explore the town's winding streets, browse art galleries and shops housed in historic buildings, and learn about Jerome's fascinating past at the Jerome State Historic Park and the Jerome Historical Society Mine Museum. The district includes not only the built area within the town's limits but also mining-related resources outside those limits, offering a comprehensive look at Jerome's mining heritage.Points of interest include the Douglas Mansion, now the Jerome State Historic Park, which showcases the history of the area, mining, and the Douglas family. The Jerome Historical Society, located on Clark Street, operates museums and preserves the town's unique history. Walking tours are a great way to explore the town's historic buildings and learn about its colorful past. Jerome offers a blend of history, art, and stunning views of the Verde Valley, making it a memorable destination.