Top 10 True Western Towns of 2009
By: 01/01/2009
The Santa Fe Railroad once brought the world to Wickenburg. When the last passenger train ran in May 1969, the depot could have easily been torn down like so many were in towns throughout the West. But Wickenburg has always honored its heritage, and it makes perfect sense that today the Chamber of Commerce resides in the 1895 depot. The one-story frame depot still stands in its original design, without any modifications. The late Wickenburg citizens Viola “Vi” and George Wellik, of the Flying E Ranch, acquired the depot and refurbished the structure to its yellow and red glory. Celebrating a decade of charitable service in 2008, the Wellik Foundation has been a key contributor to the town’s efforts.
Wickenburg’s citizens—about 10,000 strong—continue to give their hearts, souls and dollars into preserving the city’s ranching, mining and rail heritage. Even the depot is getting another facelift. Historical architect Bill Otwell completed his renderings of the original storage room and baggage scale so it can be turned into a conference room; remodeling is expected to start in Spring 2009. Other conscientious citizens include Roy and Tucker Coxwell, whose Gold Nugget Art Gallery resides in the city’s oldest building, Jim Corbet, owner of the Hassayampa building, formerly the Vernetta Hotel. Historic downtown is also shaping up, as it finished out its second year of a three-year revitalization plan, putting in utilities underground and pedestrian pathways in the alleys.
The town also knows how to mix fun with its history. Gold Rush Days & Rodeo celebrated its 60th year in 2008; Fiesta de Septiembre and the Cowboy Christmas Poetry Gathering both celebrated 20 years in 2008.
The Vulture Mine, discovered by the namesake founder Henry Wickenburg in 1863, still draws folks in. The mine never paid off for ol’ Henry or later investors, but give folks a treasure map and set them off to explore Vulture City, and you’re talking an experience that’s richer than gold. Just like all those folks who work hard to preserve Wickenburg’s heritage—their hearts can’t be bought, and what they’re saving is priceless.
Comments (2)
The city should make the downtown historic district more western all year long, that is what the tourists want to come and enjoy, just like Jackson Hole area. Wood sidewalks, old storefronts renewed, take down the horrible siding on all those old building and make it historic and western as much as possible. Pull all the businesses together and make a true western downtown. You don't have to all sell western items, just make the buildings western. You have a GREAT start with the Train Depot and surrounding areas!! Keep up the PLAN!! or MAKE A PLAN!! Cheyenne could be a truly great small city and as the State Capital SHOULD have a GREAT DOWNTOWN!!
Sir:
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He has been Special Forces and, I suppose Police work is what he wants.
I am in California but I am not a
"Californian". 707-259-0949 or
wes.mac@comcast.net or P O Box 294.
Yountville, California 94599. WES MAC
Mc Girr
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