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by Jack D. Wilson 
2009 Rodeo Grand Entry photo by Jack D. Wilson
Folks, it is time to dress western and RODEO!
The Rodeo grounds open two (2) hours before events.
Family Days Discount
Wednesday, June 29, and Thursday, June 30, have been designated “Family Days”. For $50 two adults and up to four children can get tickets to the rodeo. This is a discount over our normal prices. Tickets have to be purchased either by phone (1-866-407-6336) or at our Ticket Office.
Tuesday, June 28
• Happy Hearts Rodeo for Exceptional Children (Prescott Rodeo Grounds), 5 p.m.
• Rodeo Performance, 7:30 p.m. (Daily Courier night)
Wednesday, June 29
• Rodeo Performance, 7:30 p.m. (Wrangler Tough Enough to Wear Pink night – raising funds for breast cancer research)
Thursday, June 30
• Rodeo Performance, 7:30 p.m. (Country Bank night)
Friday, July 1
• Kiwanis Kiddie Parade, 8:30 a.m. (Cortez & Goodwin St.)
• Rodeo Performance, 7:30 p.m. (Jack Daniels night)
• Rodeo Dance – Family night, 8 p.m. – 1 a.m., M&I Bank Parking Lot (303 N. Montezuma)
Saturday, July 2
• Rodeo Performance, 1:30 p.m. (York / Dodge night)
• Rodeo Performance, 7:30 p.m. (Coors / Canyon Distributing night)
• Rodeo Dance – 21 and older, 8 p.m. – 1 a.m., M&I Bank Parking Lot (303 N. Montezuma)
Sunday, July 3
• Cowboy Church (Prescott Rodeo Grounds), 8:30 a.m.
• Prescott Rodeo Days Fine Arts & Crafts Show (Courthouse Plaza), 9 a.m.
• Prescott Frontier Days Parade (Courthouse Plaza), 9 a.m. - Theme: Rodeo Pioneers
• Rodeo Performance, 7:30 p.m. (Murphy’s Restaurant night)
• Rodeo Dance – 21 and older, 8 p.m. – 1 a.m., M&I Bank Parking Lot (303 N. Montezuma)
Monday, July 4
• Prescott Rodeo Days Fine Arts & Crafts Show (Courthouse Plaza), 9 a.m.
• City of Prescott‘s Fabulous Fourth (Pioneer Park), Noon-10:30 p.m.
• Rodeo Queen Coronation (Prescott Rodeo Grounds), Noon — this is a FREE event
• Rodeo Performance, 1:30 p.m. (Coca-Cola)
Monday, July 5
• Prescott Rodeo Days Fine Arts & Crafts Show (Courthouse Plaza), 9 a.m.
Technorati Tags: Arizona’s Christmas City
© 2010 Jack D. Wilson
Governor Rose Perica Mofford issued an official proclamation that Prescott Arizona is indeed “Arizona’s Christmas City.” A governor’s proclamation is merely a piece of paper. What caused her to issue that proclamation is much more important.
Cities and towns all across Arizona spend lots of money on Christmas lighting displays, and yes, some are larger and grander than in Prescott. But if your soul longs for the essence of the old-fashion Christmas that you enjoyed as a child, then you need to come to Prescott.
Prescott Holiday Montage 2010
World’s largest gingerbread village
The Yavapai-Prescott Indian Tribe’s reservation is in the middle of Prescott. Their Prescott Resort and Conference Center is at 1500 Highway 69 as you enter Prescott and kicks off Prescott’s Christmas festivities with the grand opening of their 18th annual World’s Largest Gingerbread Village on November 20 at 10AM. It then continues through Sunday, January 2.
The Gingerbread Village is in the lobby of the Prescott Resort and Conference Center, 7 days a week. There is no charge to see the Village. The houses are made by children, chefs, businesses, families and individuals (several TV personalities typically participate). The creativity and originality of the displays is always amazing! Dozens of meticulously executed village homes and businesses are a backdrop to a circling train.
Feeling a tad jaded about the holidays and the economy? Come take a look at the Gingerbread Village, it is free and it just might revive your spirit and belief in this season of hope and giving. This event typically brings 50,000+ people to see this amazing display.
This annual Whimsical Village of over 100 houses is a fundraiser for Yavapai Big Brothers Big Sisters. They receive donations from the ‘lot sales’, gingerbread men cookie decorating and the donation house. And by the way, the Resort and Conference Center has just completed a spectacular multi-million dollar renovation with added amenities such as a new coffee shop.
Gingerbread Village Scheduled Activities
• Grand opening 10AM on Saturday, November 20
• Gingerbread cookie decorating for children of all ages: Dec. 4th, 11th & 18th, from 11AM until 2PM
• Santa Clause will be at the resort Saturday, Nov, 27 Noon-2PM
• Central Arizona Railroad Club will be at the resort on Saturday, December 4 from 9AM to 4PM for all train enthusiasts. Come see the finest model trains in the nation and the club will be giving away a train set to one lucky child.
• Saturday, Dec. 4th 7-9PM Light the Resort party in the Eagles Nest
• Friday, Dec, 17th join Santa from 6-7PM for a special reading in the Eagles Nest
For move information about these activities call (928) 776-1666.
Holiday Lights
What would Arizona’s Christmas City be without lots of lights?
15th Annual Prescott Holiday Light Parade
Photograph by Jack D. Wilson from 2008 parade
Prescott’s Holiday Light Parade occurs on Saturday, November 27, 2010 at 6:00 PM at the Downtown Courthouse Plaza. It is the second major festive event of the season. Come out and enjoy a parade of floats festively and creatively decorated with lights. Dozens of lighted floats circle the courthouse in this annual favorite. I have included a picture from the 2008 that illustrates that creativity with an airplane theme.
Yard and house lights
Some folks in Prescott really go all out doing exterior decorations. The local paper, Daily Courier, maintains a list of some of the best for drive around viewing.
Photograph by Jack D. Wilson
Courthouse Plaza Lights
Photograph by Jack D. Wilson
You can enjoy the Christmas lighting on the Historic Courthouse Plaza all through December after their festive lighting on December 4 (see below).
A Bevy of Christmas Events – Saturday, December 4
My best advice is to book your room early for these great festivities. You may want to come in a day of two early to take advantage of the unique shopping opportunities (see Antique Capital of Arizona) and visit our museums (see Spotlight on Prescott Arizona Museums).
28th Annual Christmas Parade at 1:00 pm
Photograph by Jack D. Wilson – yes, that is a calliope
Prescott is steeped in historic traditions and the annual Christmas Parade is
Technorati Tags: Arizona’s Christmas City
one of those traditions. It winds around the Courthouse Plaza and lasts for about two hours. Spectators bring their lawn chairs down early to stake out prime viewing real estate.
|
Too cute! |
Lots of vintage cars participate. |
|
Patriot Disposal entry with co-founder Chris Kuknyo sitting in the brown jacket |
What is a parade without bands? |
|
Unique entrants! |
Always lots of period costumes, many with Western or Territorial themes. |
Photographs by Jack D. Wilson at 2008 Parade.
56th Annual Courthouse Lighting 6:00 pm.
Photograph by Jack D. Wilson 2008 Courthouse Lighting Ceremony
The Courthouse Lighting ceremony is an old tradition in Prescott and is our signature Christmas event – the lighting of the Courthouse and Plaza. It includes children’s choirs on the steps of the courthouse, as Arizona Secretary of State Ken Bennett reads the story of the first Christmas just before the plaza explodes in the beauty of nearly one million Christmas lights. You should get down to the historic Courthouse Plaza early as this event always draws a very large crowd. Bring your camera to get some memorable pictures.
|
Prescott City Hall |
Pretty light display |
|
Plaza trees and Whiskey Row |
Plaza trees and the Courthouse |
|
Bronze cowboy at Christmas |
Crowd on the Courthouse Plaza |
|
Checking out the scene |
The Courthouse in its glory |
Photographs by Jack D. Wilson – 2008 Courthouse Lighting
Sharlot Hall Museum Annual Frontier Christmas Open House
Photograph by Jack D. Wilson at 2008 Frontier Christmas
Prescott got its start as a gold mining town and because President Lincoln wanting to ensure the Arizona Territorial capital was far away from the pesky confederates in Tucson. We are justly proud of being the territorial capital twice and of our frontier heritage. Come sample that heritage at the Frontier Christmas Open House features live holiday music, refreshments, cookies by a roaring fire, shopping, and living history presentations of holiday celebrations during Arizona’s territorial days.
When: Saturday, Dec. 4, 6 p.m. – 9 p.m. immediately following the Courthouse Lighting
Where: Sharlot Hall Museum, 415 W. Gurley St., two blocks west of the Courthouse Plaza
Admission: $3 for Museum members; $5 for nonmembers; under 18 free
For more information about Sharlot Hall Museum’s Frontier Christmas Open House, call Jody Drake at (928) 445-3122 or visit the Museum’s website.
Acker Musical Showcase – Friday Dec. 10 5:30-8:30 pm
|
Chorus in St. Michael’s Alley |
Banjos at Lamerson’s Jewelry |
|
A little Western style music |
Another Western style group |
Photographs by Jack D. Wilson at the 2005 Acker Musical Showcase
This is truly a unique Prescott event. My advice is get downtown early to have an early dinner to prepare for this, it is usually mobbed. Insider tip: The “Jug Band” normally plays at the Elks Opera House and their songs are parodies that skewer the local politicals (they got me when I was the Prescott Mayor). Great fun and not to be missed! Festive luminaries lights will surround Courthouse Plaza and local merchants open their doors and host over 100 of the area’s entertainers for this downtown open house. Browse the various shops, galleries and boutiques while enjoying a variety of music and entertainment and indulging in delectable treats.
This magical holiday celebration is the primary fundraising activity of the J.S. Acker Music Park Association. The performers are all volunteering their time. Please give generously to the TIPS for Scholarships! bags that are staged with the performing act at each venue. Your contributions will be used to award Local Area Youth with Performing Arts Scholarships!
More at their website: www.ackershowcase.com
Shopping
Prescott offers lots of opportunities for shopping. I have highlighted a couple where you can find unique and really special gifts.
Nov. 2-Dec. 23 Mountain Artists Guild Annual Holiday Arts & Crafts Show
Mountain Artists Guild & Gallery located at 228 N. Alarcon
Pick up some one-of-a-kind objects d’art at this popular annual holiday arts and crafts show at the Mountain Artists Guild & Gallery. Items go quickly, so be sure to make out your list now!
Formal reception on Friday Nov. 26, 5:00 to 7:30 pm.
Nov. 5 – Dec. 16 "Gifts Galore!"
Prescott Fine Arts Association located at 208 N. Marina St.
Prescott Fine Arts Galley is once again transformed into a glittering gallery of gifts for the discriminating shopper. Visitors look forward to this annual event where they can purchase one-of-a-kind art and handcrafted treasures. Our artists work year round to create only the best in unique, hand made gifts for your shopping pleasure. You’ll find fine art, sculpture, jewelry, textiles, glass, ceramics and several "Who would have thought of that" items.
Last-Minute Non-Profit Stocking-Stuffer Bazaar Dec. 18 – 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
More than 50 nonprofit agencies selling low-cost, high-quality merchandise to raise money for their agencies. Live entertainment. Gifts from Santa for children with adults. Prescott Activity Center, 824 E. Gurley St. 928-778-3747. Get there EARLY for the best selection!
Photo credits
All photographs by Jack D. Wilson. Unauthorized use prohibited without prior permission.
Feedback
If you found this article helpful, please leave a comment, Tweet it (button below) or forward to a friend. If I missed something, leave a comment and I will try to update the information.
Jack D. Wilson first visited Prescott in 1995 and has been a resident since 2000. He took a sojourn into politics and was the mayor of Prescott Arizona from Nov. 2007 – Nov. 2009. He now writes a couple of blogs and is President of the Prescott Frontier Days Community Service Foundation.
© 2010 Jack D. Wilson
Governor Rose Perica Mofford issued an official proclamation that Prescott Arizona is indeed “Arizona’s Christmas City.” A governor’s proclamation is merely a piece of paper. What caused her to issue that proclamation is much more important.
Cities and towns all across Arizona spend lots of money on Christmas lighting displays, and yes, some are larger and grander than in Prescott. But if your soul longs for the essence of the old-fashion Christmas that you enjoyed as a child, then you need to come to Prescott.
Prescott Holiday Montage 2010
World’s largest gingerbread village
The Yavapai-Prescott Indian Tribe’s reservation is in the middle of Prescott. Their Prescott Resort and Conference Center is at 1500 Highway 69 as you enter Prescott and kicks off Prescott’s Christmas festivities with the grand opening of their 18th annual World’s Largest Gingerbread Village on November 20 at 10AM. It then continues through Sunday, January 2.
The Gingerbread Village is in the lobby of the Prescott Resort and Conference Center, 7 days a week. There is no charge to see the Village. The houses are made by children, chefs, businesses, families and individuals (several TV personalities typically participate). The creativity and originality of the displays is always amazing! Dozens of meticulously executed village homes and businesses are a backdrop to a circling train.
Feeling a tad jaded about the holidays and the economy? Come take a look at the Gingerbread Village, it is free and it just might revive your spirit and belief in this season of hope and giving. This event typically brings 50,000+ people to see this amazing display.
This annual Whimsical Village of over 100 houses is a fundraiser for Yavapai Big Brothers Big Sisters. They receive donations from the ‘lot sales’, gingerbread men cookie decorating and the donation house. And by the way, the Resort and Conference Center has just completed a spectacular multi-million dollar renovation with added amenities such as a new coffee shop.
Gingerbread Village Scheduled Activities
• Grand opening 10AM on Saturday, November 20
• Gingerbread cookie decorating for children of all ages: Dec. 4th, 11th & 18th, from 11AM until 2PM
• Santa Clause will be at the resort Saturday, Nov, 27 Noon-2PM
• Central Arizona Railroad Club will be at the resort on Saturday, December 4 from 9AM to 4PM for all train enthusiasts. Come see the finest model trains in the nation and the club will be giving away a train set to one lucky child.
• Saturday, Dec. 4th 7-9PM Light the Resort party in the Eagles Nest
• Friday, Dec, 17th join Santa from 6-7PM for a special reading in the Eagles Nest
For move information about these activities call (928) 776-1666.
Holiday Lights
What would Arizona’s Christmas City be without lots of lights?
15th Annual Prescott Holiday Light Parade
Photograph by Jack D. Wilson from 2008 parade
Prescott’s Holiday Light Parade occurs on Saturday, November 27, 2010 at 6:00 PM at the Downtown Courthouse Plaza. It is the second major festive event of the season. Come out and enjoy a parade of floats festively and creatively decorated with lights. Dozens of lighted floats circle the courthouse in this annual favorite. I have included a picture from the 2008 that illustrates that creativity with an airplane theme.
Yard and house lights
Some folks in Prescott really go all out doing exterior decorations. The local paper, Daily Courier, maintains a list of some of the best for drive around viewing.
Photograph by Jack D. Wilson
Courthouse Plaza Lights
Photograph by Jack D. Wilson
You can enjoy the Christmas lighting on the Historic Courthouse Plaza all through December after their festive lighting on December 4 (see below).
A Bevy of Christmas Events – Saturday, December 4
My best advice is to book your room early for these great festivities. You may want to come in a day of two early to take advantage of the unique shopping opportunities (see Antique Capital of Arizona) and visit our museums (see Spotlight on Prescott Arizona Museums).
Christmas Parade at 1:00 pm
Photograph by Jack D. Wilson – yes, that is a calliope
Prescott is steeped in historic traditions and the annual Christmas Parade is one of those traditions. It winds around the Courthouse Plaza and lasts for about two hours. Spectators bring their lawn chairs down early to stake out prime viewing real estate.
Too cute! |
Lots of vintage cars participate. |
Patriot Disposal entry with co-founder Chris Kuknyo sitting in the brown jacket |
What is a parade without bands? |
Unique entrants! |
Always lots of period costumes, many with Western or Territorial themes. |
Photographs by Jack D. Wilson at 2008 Parade.
56th Annual Courthouse Lighting Ceremony 6:00 pm.
Photograph by Jack D. Wilson 2008 Courthouse Lighting Ceremony
The Courthouse Lighting ceremony is an old tradition in Prescott and is our signature Christmas event – the lighting of the Courthouse and Plaza. It includes children’s choirs on the steps of the courthouse, as Arizona Secretary of State Ken Bennett reads the story of the first Christmas just before the plaza explodes in the beauty of nearly one million Christmas lights. You should get down to the historic Courthouse Plaza early as this event always draws a very large crowd. Bring your camera to get some memorable pictures.
Prescott City Hall |
Pretty light display |
Plaza trees and Whiskey Row |
Plaza trees and the Courthouse |
Bronze cowboy at Christmas |
Crowd on the Courthouse Plaza |
Checking out the scene |
The Courthouse in its glory |
Photographs by Jack D. Wilson – 2008 Courthouse Lighting
Sharlot Hall Museum Annual Frontier Christmas Open House
Photograph by Jack D. Wilson at 2008 Frontier Christmas
Prescott got its start as a gold mining town and because President Lincoln wanting to ensure the Arizona Territorial capital was far away from the pesky confederates in Tucson. We are justly proud of being the territorial capital twice and of our frontier heritage. Come sample that heritage at the Frontier Christmas Open House features live holiday music, refreshments, cookies by a roaring fire, shopping, and living history presentations of holiday celebrations during Arizona’s territorial days.
When: Saturday, Dec. 4, 6 p.m. – 9 p.m. immediately following the Courthouse Lighting
Where: Sharlot Hall Museum, 415 W. Gurley St., two blocks west of the Courthouse Plaza
Admission: $3 for Museum members; $5 for nonmembers; under 18 free
For more information about Sharlot Hall Museum’s Frontier Christmas Open House, call Jody Drake at (928) 445-3122 or visit the Museum’s website.
Acker Musical Showcase – Friday Dec. 10 5:30-8:30 pm
Chorus in St. Michael’s Alley |
Banjos at Lamerson’s Jewelry |
A little Western style music |
Another Western style group |
Photographs by Jack D. Wilson at the 2005 Acker Musical Showcase
This is truly a unique Prescott event. My advice is get downtown early to have an early dinner to prepare for this, it is usually mobbed. Insider tip: The “Jug Band” normally plays at the Elks Opera House and their songs are parodies that skewer the local politicals (they got me when I was the Prescott Mayor). Great fun and not to be missed! Festive luminaries lights will surround Courthouse Plaza and local merchants open their doors and host over 100 of the area’s entertainers for this downtown open house. Browse the various shops, galleries and boutiques while enjoying a variety of music and entertainment and indulging in delectable treats.
This magical holiday celebration is the primary fundraising activity of the J.S. Acker Music Park Association. The performers are all volunteering their time. Please give generously to the TIPS for Scholarships! bags that are staged with the performing act at each venue. Your contributions will be used to award Local Area Youth with Performing Arts Scholarships!
More at their website: www.ackershowcase.com
Shopping
Prescott offers lots of opportunities for shopping. I have highlighted a couple where you can find unique and really special gifts.
Nov. 2-Dec. 23 Mountain Artists Guild Annual Holiday Arts & Crafts Show
Mountain Artists Guild & Gallery located at 228 N. Alarcon
Pick up some one-of-a-kind objects d’art at this popular annual holiday arts and crafts show at the Mountain Artists Guild & Gallery. Items go quickly, so be sure to make out your list now!
Formal reception on Friday Nov. 26, 5:00 to 7:30 pm.
Nov. 5 – Dec. 16 “Gifts Galore!”
Prescott Fine Arts Association located at 208 N. Marina St.
Prescott Fine Arts Galley is once again transformed into a glittering gallery of gifts for the discriminating shopper. Visitors look forward to this annual event where they can purchase one-of-a-kind art and handcrafted treasures. Our artists work year round to create only the best in unique, hand made gifts for your shopping pleasure. You’ll find fine art, sculpture, jewelry, textiles, glass, ceramics and several “Who would have thought of that” items.
Last-Minute Non-Profit Stocking-Stuffer Bazaar Dec. 18 – 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
More than 50 nonprofit agencies selling low-cost, high-quality merchandise to raise money for their agencies. Live entertainment. Gifts from Santa for children with adults. Prescott Activity Center, 824 E. Gurley St. 928-778-3747. Get there EARLY for the best selection!
Photo credits
All photographs by Jack D. Wilson. Unauthorized use prohibited without prior permission.
Feedback
If you found this article helpful, please leave a comment, Tweet it (button below) or forward to a friend. If I missed something, leave a comment and I will try to update the information.
Jack D. Wilson first visited Prescott in 1995 and has been a resident since 2000. He took a sojourn into politics and was the mayor of Prescott Arizona from Nov. 2007 – Nov. 2009. He now writes a couple of blogs and is President of the Prescott Frontier Days Community Service Foundation.
© 2010 by Jack D. Wilson
Hard to believe, but the temperatures have started to drop and we will soon be transitioning into Fall. But before that happens Prescott Arizona has a roundhouse schedule of events on September 24/25/26 to keep everyone entertained. Pack your bags and book your room, this is one weekend you should spend in Prescott!
Entertainment all weekend
The weekend starting on Friday September 24 will have multiple events occurring across Prescott. There is always lots to do in Prescott, but this weekend will be truly spectacular. Come on up early and get a round or two of golf in at one of the top-rated municipal golf courses in Arizona, Antelope Hills.
Thumb Butte Festival
The entertainment starts on Friday, September 24 with the Thumb Butte Festival. Here is a description from their web site:
“Yavapai County Courthouse Plaza
5:00 – 10:00 pm
At 5pm the "Spotlight Kids" perform acts from Alice In Wonderland" followed by a fashion show by the Elks Opera Guild, "An Evening at the Opera House." Guild members model gowns and eveningwear from 1905 to 1940.
Other performers on the evening’s bill are Jonathan Best, known for his "equal parts gospel tenor, boogie-woogie piano and avant-garde sound collage"; songwriter, singer and storyteller Rita Cantu; flamenco music and dance group Rio Flamenco; classical vocalist Lecia Breen; Arizona Cowboy Poets Gathering; several surprise guests including a special appearance by professional performers emulating Frank Sinatra and Marilyn Monroe!”
To see the complete schedule, go to their website: Thumb Butte Festival
“My Way – A musical tribute to Frank Sinatra” at Elks Opera House
ABT named BEST PLAYHOUSE in the Valley of the Sun by Phoenix Magazine – Don’t miss MY WAY 9/24-25 at the Elks Opera House. Info at Elks Opera House.
Tickets on sale now! Click here to buy tickets
Western heritage Days
The 1st Annual Western Heritage Days kicks off on Saturday, September 25. This will the largest re-enactment round-up ever in Arizona and it will be on Whiskey Row in downtown Prescott. It starts at 9:00AM on Whiskey Row in Downtown Prescott and runs until 5:00PM. It concludes with a Cowboy chuck wagon breakfast Sunday morning at 9:30AM at Sharlot Hall Museum. Tickets are $12.00 for the breakfast and are available at the Sharlot Hall Museum and the Prescott Convention and Visitors Bureau (corner or Cortez and Gurley).
See their website for full details and schedules: Prescott Western Heritage Days
Taste of Prescott
Taste of Prescott occurs on Saturday, September 25 from Noon-4:00PM. It is held in a large tent in the parking lot of the Frontier Village Shopping Center at 1841 E Hwy 69. Sample some of the best cuisine (and thirst quenchers) from many of the great restaurants in the quad-city area. The event will also feature beer and wine tasting. Tickets for the Taste are $1.00 each, 6 for $5.00 or 12 for $10.00. Food items are one tickets with beer and wine 3 tickets. Benefits Yavapai Food Bank.
I highly recommend this event. You spend a few bucks that benefits a very worthy cause and you get a chance to sample some of the best food in Prescott. They also will have music by Pam and Dave Swanstrom and this really is an event I look forward to each year. If you can, bring a couple of cans of food to donate to the Yavapai Food Bank – it these tough times they need a little extra help.
Toni Tennille Sings Big Band
Prescott resident Toni Tennille performs in concert at 7:30PM on Saturday September 25. This event is sold out so if you do not have tickets already you will be disappointed. See Toni Tennille’s News Gazette.
Antiques on the Square
The fall edition of Antiques on the Square will be held from 9:00AM-5:00PM on Sunday September 26 on the downtown Courthouse Plaza. This show is sponsored by the Thumb Butte Questers and features real antiques and collectibles – this is not a crafts show.
A Prescott tradition, "Antiques on the Square," has been a premier Arizona antique destination for over 22 years. It is an antique and collectibles show with 50+ dealers. Info: 928.899.6438
More information at Antiques on the Square
This show features antiques and collectibles and no craft items are allowed in the show. Several local dealers only sell at this show and there will be dealers from Tucson and Phoenix. Dealers will feature antique advertising signs, vintage clothing, antique jewelry, furniture, Victorian dresser mirrors and stereopticons, lighting fixtures, folk art, art glass and antique books. In addition to the show there are several antique shops and antique malls on Cortez Street (Antique Row).
Raw Spirits Festival – Sept 24 – 26, 2010
The Raw Spirit Festival International is being held at the spectacular Watson Lake Park in Prescott, Arizona’s gorgeous Granite Dells. See the Raw Spirits web site for full details.
Other activities
In case all of the above is not enough to keep you busy over the weekend, here are some additional options to include in your planning (click on the links to see them):
Spotlight on Prescott Arizona Museums
Insider Guide to Trails in Prescott Arizona
Of course after you sample all of the above, you may realize that Prescott is unique in may ways and come to the conclusion that many have (including me):
All Agree – Prescott Arizona – retirement haven
Photo credits
The Western Heritage Days illustrations are courtesy of that organization. All other photographs by Jack D. Wilson. Unauthorized use prohibited without prior permission.
Feedback
If you found this article helpful, please leave a comment or forward to a friend. If I missed something that you found along the way, leave a comment and I will try to update the information.
Jack D. Wilson first visited Prescott in 1995 and has been a resident since 2000. He took a sojourn into politics and was the mayor of Prescott Arizona from Nov. 2007 – Nov. 2009. He now writes a couple of blogs and is President of the Prescott Frontier Days Community Service Foundation.
The Largest Re-enactment Round-Up in Arizona Coming to Prescott
The Prescott Western Heritage Foundation, Inc. ® is kicking off its 1st Annual Prescott Western Heritage Days event on Saturday and Sunday, September 25-26. This event will celebrate the western heritage of Prescott and Yavapai County between 1864 and 1912. This year’s event will be hosted by the Regulators and their Shady Ladies, Inc. ®, in conjunction with the Sharlot Hall Museum. A major attraction will be the largest historical re-enactment group gathering in Arizona. Prescott Western Heritage Days will be held on Whiskey Row, Sharlot Hall Museum and various nearby venues beginning at 9am on Saturday. Family activities will include unique photo opportunities, re-enactment skits, period costume contest and fashion show, cowboy, western and old-time music, cowboy poetry and children’s activities all day Saturday. The event will conclude with a cowboy breakfast and entertainment at Sharlot Hall Museum Sunday morning. A schedule of events and venue locations can be found at www.prescottwesternheritageday.org.
Participating organizations include the Prescott Regulators & their Shady Ladies, Inc., The Prescott Victorian Society, Inc., The Prescott Buscaderos, The Rough Riders, The Buffalo Soldiers, Bill Williams Mountain Men and Sharlot Hall Museum.
Western culture and heritage has deep roots in Prescott, as Arizona’s 1st Territorial Capitol and home to the famous and infamous Whiskey Row. Amateur and professional artists, photographers, videographers, media and tourists will have a one of a kind opportunity to photograph dozens of re-enactment groups in period clothing in and around the historic Courthouse. Group photo opportunities with staged backdrops will be made available.
Admission to the event is free. Tickets for breakfast are $12 for adults and $6 for children under 12 and can be purchased at Prescott Convention and Visitors Bureau. All net proceeds for Prescott Western Heritage Days to benefit Sharlot Hall Museum and Prescott’s Christmas Lighting. For more information, please visit www.prescottwesternheritageday.org.
On Sunday, June 26 “Antiques on the Square” will take place on Courthouse Square from 9:00a.m – 5:00p.m. Information at ShowUp.com at
by Jack D. Wilson, Foundation President
2009 Rodeo Grand Entry photo by Jack D. Wilson
Prescott Frontier Days® World’s Oldest Rodeo is steeped in history, but lacks a Rodeo Museum to showcase, celebrate and share our 123-year history with the world. We have rodeo artifacts displayed at Smoki Museum today, along with other rodeo artifacts and memorabilia at Sharlot Hall and Phippen Museums. The Prescott Frontier Days® Community Service Foundation believes Prescott should have its own Rodeo Museum and is raising funds for that. We have established a fund-raising target of $500,000.
Selected Rodeo Museums – Why Not Us?
- Pro Rodeo Hall of Fame, Colorado Springs, CO
- Tucson Rodeo Parade Museum
- Days of ’76 Museum, Deadwood, South Dakota
- Dublin Rodeo Heritage Museum, Dublin, Texas
- California Rodeo Heritage Museum, Salinas, CA
- Grant County Ranch & Rodeo Museum, John Day, OR
- Sidney Rodeo Museum, Sidney, Iowa
- Tri-State Rodeo Museum, Madison, Iowa
- Texas Rodeo Cowboy Hall of Fame, Fort Worth, TX
How you can help
The Prescott Frontier Days® Community Service Foundation has started a campaign to raise funds for a rodeo museum in Prescott Arizona. We developed a tri-fold brochure on the foundation and its goals and passed these out at a foundation table at all eight 2010 rodeo performances. This was the first time the foundation had a table at the rodeo – we were there to raise awareness about the foundation and our efforts to raise funds for a rodeo museum.
After the rodeo is over, foundation members will be developing a brochure specifically aimed at soliciting funds for a rodeo museum. We expect to have that brochure ready by September 2010. That brochure will be used as part of a major effort at fund-raising for a rodeo museum.
However, if you want to support a rodeo museum you can make a donation now. The Prescott Frontier Days® Community Service Foundation is a 501 (c) (3) IRS qualified non-profit trust. All donations appreciated, whether $5 or $500,000, we can use the help.
Donations should be made payable to:
Prescott Frontier Days® Community Service Foundation
And mailed to
Prescott Frontier Days® Community Service Foundation P. O. Box 706 Prescott, AZ 86302-0706Please include you name and address so that we can properly acknowledge your donation. If you have a question or need additional information, call the foundation president at (928) 445-5137.
Find out what all the buzz is about and experience Prescott AZ. Take a look at this 3-minute video overview: Experience Prescott 2010
If you liked that video, find out about the City of Prescott 4th of July Celebration
Dedicated to all the cowboys and cowgirls living the dream, and a tribute to the World’s Oldest Rodeo in Prescott, AZ. See the YouTube video:
Get your rodeo tickets at World’s Oldest Rodeo
Early 1900s Elks Opera House Interior. Photo UBP Sharlot Hall Museum. Reuse only by permission.
© 2010 Parker Anderson and Jack D. Wilson
In the early twentieth century there were numerous Elks Opera Houses across America. One hundred years later only one has survived in the entire country. This series traces the history of this unique structure; how it was built, how it was used, how it later was used as a movie house for 72 years, how it fell into decline, how it was almost lost and finally the story of its amazing restoration. The history of the Elks Opera House has mirrored the history of Prescott.
Prescott, Arizona began as a gold mining and military encampment in 1864. President Abraham Lincoln chose Prescott as the Territorial Capital of Arizona because there were too many Confederate sympathizers in Tucson. The gold did not last very long (but you can still pan for gold today) and Prescott lost its place as the Territorial capital (after being the capital twice). It then evolved into a ranching community. But Prescott’s military encampment, Ft. Whipple, remained as an anchor.
In the 1890 census, Prescott had a population of 1,789[1]. In January 1896 the Elks Lodge BPOE[2] 330 was founded. By the 1900 census Prescott’s population had exploded to 3,559[3]. In August 1900 the Elks purchased a vacant lot on Gurley Street and later bought adjacent vacant property.
The Elks originally planned to build the structure in order to have a permanent lodge; they had been renting various meeting rooms around town since 1896. They started to seriously consider an Opera House after the old Dake Opera House was bulldozed (in 1903; it was only half a block away). Construction was estimated at $50,000.
Later, after a competing plan to build an opera house in Prescott did not materialize, a notice was published in the 1904 Prescott Daily Journal Miner urging businessmen of the city to attend a meeting on Feb. 12 to discuss a proposal from the Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks Lodge #330 to include an opera house, at an estimated cost of $15,000, to the building they were erecting on East Gurley Street.
“Prescott should have a good opera house and there never was a good chance before to have one for the money that this will cost, and if this chance is lost it will be a good long time before another such opportunity is offered.”
The residents of Prescott had migrated from the East and missed the entertainment they used to enjoy. They raised the necessary funds and the opera house was incorporated into the plans for the three-story building housing the lodge on the top floor, offices on the second floor and retail space on the ground floor. The granite cornerstone of the building was laid on April 3, 1904, with an excited crowd in attendance.
The February 10, 1905, Prescott Weekly Courier reported:
“The peer of that theatre is not found east of San Francisco until the great cities of the Mississippi Valley are reached, and even there our theatre is outclassed only as to size, for our theatre is about as perfect as the handiwork of man generally gets to be.”
The Elks held their grand opening on Monday, February 20, 1905. It included the stage show MARTA OF THE LOWLANDS by Angel Guimera, starring the then-famed stage actress Florence Roberts and billed as a romance of old Spain. The play itself, though forgotten today, was quite acclaimed at the time, and to this day there are streets and monuments in Barcelona named in honor of its fictitious hero, Manelic. The orchestra was composed of musicians from Prescott, Jerome and Phoenix. Opera boxes sold for $20.00 and general admission was $2.50. The box office proceeds totaled $1,225, leaving a $600 to $700 net profit for the Elks Lodge. This play was recreated as part of the 100th anniversary of the Elks in 2005.
After that, the Elks hosted many more professional traveling road show plays and many local productions were staged. Prescott High School and St. Joseph’s Academy held their graduation ceremonies there (called “commencement exercises” in those days). Famous people who graced the stage during this period included bandleader John Philip Sousa, and former Presidential candidate turned evangelist William Jennings Bryan, both in 1909.
The elks Opera House c1915. Photo UBP Sharlot Hall Museum. Reuse only by permission.
This is the first in a series about the Prescott Arizona Elks Opera House in Prescott Arizona. In the next installment, we will cover the middle history of the Elks, from 1910-1942, when it was used for vaudeville shows that included short movies and later just for movies.
About the authors
Parker Anderson is the official Historian of the Elks Opera House. He spent thousands of hours compiling all known bookings in the first 100 years of the Opera House.
Jack D. Wilson is the former Mayor of Prescott Arizona. He has had a long interest in history having founded two neighborhood historic societies in Chicago. He was instrumental in providing the funds that allowed “Bill the Elk” to return from Prescott Valley to his rightful perch atop the Elks Opera House.
[1] “POPULATION OF ARIZONA.; Census Shows Increase of 62,592 Since 1890,” October 18, 1900, New York Times
[2] Benevolent and Protective Order of the Elks
[3] “POPULATION OF ARIZONA.; Census Shows Increase of 62,592 Since 1890,” October 18, 1900, New York Times
Learn to be a winner from 2 time World Champion Walt Woodard
- Prescott Rodeo Grounds
- MAY 7, 8 & 9 from 9am – 4pm
- All Levels Beginner to Professional
- Classroom & Video Sessions
- RV Hook-up available
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Limited number of Students — Enrolment $500.00
$200.00 Deposit required by May 1, 2010
For Information contact:
Prescott Frontier Days®, Inc., PO Box 2037 ,Prescott, AZ 86302 (928) 445-3103
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For each rope purchased from 3/1 – 4/15,
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Prescott Museums
© Jack D. Wilson 2010
Prescott Arizona is a relatively small town of about 43,000 people. However, its thirst for the arts is disproportional to its population. Arts have many forms including the performing arts, painting, sculpture, public art, galleries and museums. This article focuses on our many museums, and includes existing museums, collections on loan and future museums.
Existing Museums
Sharlot Hall Museum
(website: http://sharlot.org/ ) was founded in 1928 by Sharlot M. Hall. The museum is within easy walking distance of the Courthouse Plaza and Whiskey Row. It is located at 415 West Gurley Street. Their phone number is (928) 445-3122. If you like history, you will love this museum. It is a museum campus with several buildings including the original Territorial Governor’s Mansion (yes, Prescott was the territorial capital on two occasions). You can spend an hour or a day here and they have a museum gift shop with fascinating merchandize. Here is a YouTube video about the museum: An Inexpensive Arizona Family Getaway – Sharlot Hall Museum
Phippen Museum of Western Art
(website: http://www.phippenartmuseum.org/ ) opened its doors to the public on October 13, 1984. It is named after George Phippen, first president of the Cowboy Artists of America. The Phippen Museum is located 7 scenic miles north of the Courthouse plaza in downtown Prescott, Arizona. From the downtown area, take Highway 89 North past the Granite Dells. The museum is on the right (4701 Highway 89 North). Their phone number is (928) 778-1385.
The Smoki Museum
(website: http://www.smokimuseum.org/ ) has an interesting and somewhat controversial origin. The “Smoki People” were area businessmen, not native American Indians – for the full story see http://www.smokimuseum.org/page16.html#smoki. The museum is located at 147 N. Arizona Ave. about seven blocks east of the Courthouse Plaza. Their phone number is (928) 445-1230
Here is a quote from their website on the origin of the museum:
“Designed to resemble an Indian pueblo, the Smoki Museum was built in 1935 of native stone and wood. It was constructed with labor provided by the Civilian Works Administration and the Smoki People. The Smoki People were a group of Prescott citizens organized in 1921 and dedicated to the perpetuation of American Indian ceremonies and dances. Until 1990, the Smoki People held annual pageants at the Yavapai County Fairgrounds, but they also became a large social organization focused on developing appreciation for Southwest Indian tribes through the Museum and their annual program. ”
The Fort Whipple Museum
is our newest museum (website: http://sharlot.org/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=124&Itemid=90 The museum was a joint effort between the Bob Stump VA Center and the Sharlot Hall Museum. It is located on the grounds of the VA Hospital on Hwy. 89 in Prescott. Admission is by donation. Hours are 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays and closed for Thanksgiving, Christmas Day and New Year’s Day.
The Spot – a Child’s Museum
The museum opened in 2009 in the Prescott Gateway Mall. Their website is at http://www.thespotmuseum.org/index.php/the-spot
There vision and mission statements (from their website) are:
“Vision The spot…a Child’s Museum envisions children as lifelong learners who are inquisitive and knowledgeable about the world and are inspired to become stewards of a peaceful and sustainable planet. Mission The spot…a Child’s Museum provides interactive play experiences to stimulate curiosity, creativity, critical thinking and problem solving for children of all ages.”Collection on Loan
The Prescott Area Arts Trust (PAAT) owns the Solon H. Borglum collection currently on view at the Prescott Valley Civic Center. The Solon H. Borglum exhibit features 19 sculptures and other items from the renowned sculptor’s collection. Learn more and read the self-tour guide: Solon H. Borglum Fine Arts Exhibition http://www.pvaz.net/Index.aspx?page=438
The Prescott Area Arts Trust plans to install this collection into a museum setting in Prescott in the future.
Future Museums
Prescott Fire Department Museum
The Prescott Fire Department is the oldest fire department in Arizona. They celebrated their 125th anniversary in 2010. They have accumulated a wide variety of historical fire department memorabilia and plan to have a museum of their own in the future.
Prescott Frontier Days® World’s Oldest Rodeo Museum
The Prescott Frontier Days® World’s Oldest Rodeo has run continuously since 1888. It will celebrate its 125th season in 2012. Over that long history, Prescott Frontier Days® has collected a large amount of rodeo items of historic value.
About the author
Jack D. Wilson first visited Prescott in 1995 and has been a resident since 2000. He took a sojourn into politics and was the mayor of Prescott Arizona from Nov. 2007 – Nov. 2009. While he was mayor, he participated in two Mayor’s Ride to Work and had a Mayor’s Bicycle Advisory Committee. He now writes a couple of blogs and is President of the Prescott Frontier Days Community Service Foundation.
Sharlot Hall Museum is one of the historic gems of Prescott. Unfortunately, the Arizona legislature continues to reduce its funding. Fortunately, our Prescott Area Independents (independent restaurant and bar owners) are stepping up to help fill part of the gap. Their war cry is “Let’s party!” To ensure we do it right, they are having two parties, not just one.Party 1 is at Sharlot Hall Museum, 415 W. Gurley Street from 5-7PM on Thursday April 1st with food, music, beer, wine, and maybe some engaging conversation, but certainly lots of fun!Party 2 is at the Old Firehouse Plaza, 220 W. Goodwin Street where you will “party on” with more music, more fun, music, wine and food and maybe an engaging conversation or two. Do not miss this inaugural event, tickets for both parties are $15 in advance of $20 for walk-ins.Tickets available in advance at Sharlot Hall Museum, Firehouse Kitchen Restaurant, Larry and Hy’s Bare Bones BBQ on Whiskey Row, Scores Sports Bar and Grill on Commerce Drive and at Leff’T’ Steakhouse in Dewey. Walk-in tickets for $20 at entrances to both parties. The only thing left to do is to heed the war cry “Let’s party!”
April Foolishness Party April 1
