Benson, AZ Weather Cams
Benson South West Rail Cam
UPRR Lordsburg Sub, MP 1032 – PTZ Cam
Benson, Arizona: A Railroad Town with a Rich Past
Benson, AZ Weather Cams. Nestled in Cochise County, Arizona, Benson is a city with a fascinating history that dates back to the late 19th century. Founded in 1880, Benson emerged as a crucial railroad hub, shaping the development of southern Arizona and playing a pivotal role in the region’s mining industry.
The Birth of Benson
Benson was established when the Southern Pacific Railroad extended its tracks through southern Arizona. The town was named after Judge William S. Benson, a friend of Charles Crocker, the president of the railroad. The railroad’s arrival transformed Benson into a vital transportation and trade center, connecting mining towns like Tombstone, Bisbee, and Fairbank to larger markets.
The Railroad’s Influence
The railhead in Benson became the primary shipping point for ore and refined metals from nearby mining towns. Before the railroad reached Tombstone in 1882, Benson was the closest rail connection, making it an essential stop for miners and merchants. The town’s location near the San Pedro River also made it a strategic crossing point for travelers and freight.
Early Settlements and Stagecoach Routes
Before Benson’s founding, the area was home to San Pedro River Station, a stop along the Butterfield Overland Mail route. This stage station, operated by William Ohnesorgen, played a crucial role in transporting goods and passengers across the rugged terrain. In 1878, Ohnesorgen built a toll bridge over the San Pedro River, which later influenced the placement of the railroad bridge that marked Benson’s terminal site.
Apache Nitrogen Products and Economic Growth
In the 1920s, Benson became home to Apache Nitrogen Products, originally known as Apache Powder Company. This company was a major employer in the area, producing explosives for mining operations. The Apache Powder Historic Residential District, listed on the National Register of Historic Places, includes homes built for company management.
Benson’s Role in the Old West
Benson’s proximity to Tombstone placed it at the heart of Old West history. The infamous Benson-Tombstone Stage Robbery in 1881 was one of the events that led to the legendary gunfight at the O.K. Corral. The stage route between Benson and Tombstone was frequently targeted by outlaws, adding to the town’s rugged reputation.
The Influence of Spanish Missionaries
Long before Benson’s founding, the San Pedro Valley was inhabited by the Sobaipuri, a tribe of Pima Indians. In 1692, Father Kino, a Spanish missionary, introduced Christianity and cattle ranching to the region. The Sobaipuri played a crucial role in defending Spanish settlements from Apache attacks, but over time, warfare and disease led to their decline.
Benson Today
Modern Benson is known as the gateway to Kartchner Caverns State Park, a stunning limestone cave system discovered in 1974. The town is also home to the Singing Wind Bookshop, a renowned independent bookstore specializing in literature about the Southwest.
Conclusion
From its origins as a railroad town to its role in the mining industry and Old West history, Benson, Arizona, has a rich and diverse past. Its strategic location, economic contributions, and historical significance make it a fascinating place to explore. Whether visiting its historic sites or enjoying its natural beauty, Benson remains a testament to the enduring spirit of the American West.
For more information, visit the official Benson, AZ website.