History of Jerome

THE HISTORY OF JEROME ARIZONA

Once labeled as the “wickedest town in the west” this revived ghost town produced billions of dollars in copper. Destroyed by fire several times Jerome had the largest copper mine in the state of Arizona producing up to 3 million pounds of copper every month. Jerome was named after the principal financier Eugene Jerome from New York.

Earlier times reveal that the area was a favorite mining ground for native indians from the Sinaguas, Hohokams, and Anasazis tribes who used the area resources for trade. Jerome’s history records that the population during the height of mining activity was well over 15,000. Of course this ‘boom town’ era brought the saloons, brothels, opera houses, grocery stores, and churches. One can imagine what day to day life was like living in such a town. Take some time to click on the history web site links provided on this page to get a good glimpse of what Jerome life used to be like.

The town of Jerome was built above the copper mine and it was difficult for the miners to get the ore to market.Transporting the ore over such rugged territory to trains that could haul the metal to smelters was the straw that broke the camels back in Jerome’s early mining history.Copper prices dropped causing the early boom era to come to a halt.

Montana senator William Clark gained control of the mine and having an abundance of ingenuity and cash he pretty much built the town of Jerome. He also built a small gauge railroad providing the transportation needed to operate the mine successfully.

In 1912 a wealthy Canadian by the name of James Douglas came to Jerome. “Dr. Douglas” as he was called by those who knew him, had a patent on the ‘process of extracting copper from it’s ore. Dr. Douglas bought part of the mine extension called the ‘Little Daisy’. Soon a very rich copper vein was discovered and with World War I demands on copper Dr. Douglas and family made a fortune.

Jerome was incorporated in 1899. The demands of World War I for copper provided the incentive investors needed to reopen the mine. However, at the end of the war copper prices plummeted and the mines were closed again. Jerome soon recovered and with new technology and demand for copper Jerome prospered once again.

During the Great Depression copper prices fell once again and the mines closed. Jerome never really ever recovered after the Depression. Although, thru the years since then Jerome has recovered with a new identity. In 1966 it was designated a National Historic Landmark. The community has now become a lively town of artists and craftsmen with not only an incredible ‘billion dollar’ view but an incredible story to tell as well! Enjoy your trip to Jerome.