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Exchange at the Presidio - The Mormon Battalion Enters Tucson

A monument commemorating the Mormon Battalion's peaceful entry into Tucson and their interaction with the local community in 1846.

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Commemorating the Mormon Battalion's peaceful entrance into Tucson in 1846, this monument in El Presidio Plaza features a bronze statue depicting trade between battalion members and local residents. It serves as a reminder of a pivotal moment in Tucson's history and the westward expansion of the United States.

A brief summary to Exchange at the Presidio - The Mormon Battalion Enters Tucson

  • 165 W Alameda St, Tucson, Downtown, Arizona, 85701, US
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Local tips

  • Take some time to explore the surrounding El Presidio Historic District, known for its preserved adobe houses and unique architecture.
  • Visit the nearby Presidio San Agustín del Tucson Museum to learn more about the history of the Tucson Presidio.
  • Check out the Southern Arizona Heritage and Visitor Center, located nearby, for information on other attractions in the region.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    The Exchange at the Presidio monument is located in El Presidio Plaza at 165 W Alameda St in downtown Tucson. From most points in the downtown area, it is easily accessible by foot. From the Southern Arizona Heritage & Visitor Center, walk west along Alameda Street. The plaza will be on your left, adjacent to the Pima County El Presidio Parking Garage.

  • Public Transport

    Tucson's public transportation, Sun Tran, provides comprehensive service throughout the city. Check the Sun Tran website or app for the nearest bus stops and routes to El Presidio Plaza. The monument is a short walk from the nearest bus stop. As of July 2025, all Sun Tran routes are fare-free.

  • Parking

    If driving, parking is available at the Pima County El Presidio Parking Garage located at 165 W Alameda St, adjacent to El Presidio Plaza. Entrances are on Alameda Street and Pennington Street. As of July 2025, hourly rates are $2 for 0-2 hours, $3 for 2-3 hours, $4 for 3-4 hours, $5 for 4-5 hours, $6 for 5-6 hours, $7 for 6-7 hours, and $8 for 7+ hours. Street parking is also available, but metered Monday through Saturday.

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Discover more about Exchange at the Presidio - The Mormon Battalion Enters Tucson

The Exchange at the Presidio monument marks the site where the Mormon Battalion entered Tucson in December 1846. Facing a potentially hostile Mexican garrison, the battalion, under the command of Lt. Col. Philip St. George Cooke, approached Tucson with caution. Cooke, however, sought to avoid conflict and assured Mexican leaders of his peaceful intentions. Ultimately, the Mexican troops withdrew, allowing the Mormon Battalion to enter Tucson without bloodshed. This peaceful exchange is commemorated by the monument, which features a bronze statue of battalion members Christopher Layton and Jefferson Hunt trading with Teodoro Ramirez, a prominent Tucson merchant. The statue, created by artist Clyde Ross Morgan, was dedicated in 1996, marking the sesquicentennial of the event. The Mormon Battalion's journey was significant for several reasons. Recruited from Mormon communities, the battalion played a role in the Mexican-American War, marching nearly 1,950 miles from Iowa to San Diego. Their arrival in Tucson, then part of Sonora, Mexico, marked the first time the American flag was raised over the town. The battalion's presence also facilitated trade and interaction between the soldiers and the local Hispanic community. Today, the Exchange at the Presidio monument stands as a reminder of Tucson's complex history, encompassing Native American heritage, Spanish colonial influence, and the westward expansion of the United States. It is located in El Presidio Plaza, a public space open to all, inviting visitors to reflect on the events that shaped the region.

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