The Old West

Historically, the foundation for Arizona’s economy revolved around the four C’s which include cattle, copper, cotton and climate. Roads that were once occupied by horses and lariats have transitioned to streets that allow tourists to experience areas like the Copper Corridor.

In the 1870’s a woman named Martha Summerhayes traveled west with her Lieutenant husband. Her book, titled, Vanishing Arizona, is a first person account of Arizona before it was admitted to the Union. Several chapters focus on her time at Camp Apache where her first child, a son was born. She speaks of the unique relationships between the U.S. Army, the Apache Scouts on U.S. payroll, “renegade” bands of Apaches, and the Indians that were on a reservation. She was impressed with the grace, beauty and nobility of the indigenous people while making somewhat sweeping unflattering generalizations about the Apache culture. All the same, it is a book that accurately portrays one woman’s experience during the first interactions between the native peoples, miners, the army, and others.

When driving on the roads and viewing the modern amenities, imagine how it must have been for Martha, who was one of the few women who joined her husband on his Army adventures. She was a proper lady, though, and diligently worked to create a gentile life for her young family. With no running water, roads, sanitation or other luxuries, people who stayed were hardy, strong, and determined people.

Regardless of the heat and the turbulent relationship between native Indians and new settlers, the areas offered beautiful land and possibility of fortune. Pride went to the people who were willing to stick it out with no amenities, all for the opportunity of the American dream. Those Arizonan’s and colorful characters like Apache leader Chief Geronimo and Billy Lee “Wild Bill” Hickok have shaped the area to be what it is today.