Payson, Arizona: The Heart of Arizona’s Frontier History
AZ 260 Road Conditions. Nestled in the mountains of Gila County, Payson, Arizona, is a town rich in history, shaped by indigenous cultures, pioneer settlers, and the rugged beauty of the Tonto National Forest. Known as the “Heart of Arizona” due to its central location, Payson has evolved from a frontier settlement into a thriving community with deep historical roots.
Indigenous Beginnings
Long before European settlers arrived, the area surrounding Payson was home to various Oasisamerican cultures, including the Hohokam, Mogollon, Salado, and Sinagua peoples. The Dilzhe’e Apache referred to the region as Te-go-suk, meaning “Place of the Yellow Water”. These early inhabitants left behind archaeological sites, including remnants of irrigation systems and dwellings, providing insight into their way of life.
The Founding of Payson
Payson’s modern history began in 1882, when settlers established a small logging, mining, and ranching community called Green Valley. That same year, the Battle of Big Dry Wash took place just north of town, marking a significant conflict between the United States Army and the White Mountain Apache Tribe during the Apache Wars.
In 1884, Illinois Representative Levi Joseph Payson helped establish a post office in the settlement, and in his honor, the town was renamed Payson. Around this time, the town began hosting its first rodeo, an event that has continued annually, earning Payson the distinction of having the world’s oldest continuous rodeo.
Early Development and Frontier Life
By the late 19th century, Payson had become a central hub for ranchers, loggers, and miners. The town’s first saloon, built by Henry Sidles in 1882, became a gathering place for settlers. The Pieper Saloon, established in the 1890s, was another notable establishment, serving as a venue for dances and community events.
Payson’s first mercantile store, built by John Hise, played a crucial role in the town’s development. It housed the first post office and later expanded into a two-story building known as Tammany Hall, which included a saloon and dance hall.
The Influence of Zane Grey
In 1918, famed Western author Zane Grey visited the Payson area for the first time. He was captivated by the rugged beauty of the Mogollon Rim and returned frequently until 1929. Grey’s experiences in Payson inspired several of his novels, further cementing the town’s reputation as a quintessential Western frontier settlement.
Growth and Modernization
Payson remained a relatively small town throughout the 20th century, but its population steadily grew as tourism and outdoor recreation became more popular. The town’s proximity to the Tonto National Forest made it a prime destination for hiking, fishing, and camping.
By the 1970s, Payson had developed into a more structured municipality, and in 1973, it was officially incorporated. The town continued to expand, with new businesses, schools, and infrastructure supporting its growing population.
Payson Today
Today, Payson is a thriving community with a population of over 16,000. It remains a gateway to Northern Arizona, attracting visitors with its scenic landscapes, historical sites, and annual events like the Arizona State Old Time Fiddlin’ Championship.
From its indigenous roots to its pioneer heritage, Payson’s history is a testament to resilience and adaptation. The town’s ability to preserve its frontier spirit while embracing modern growth makes it one of Arizona’s most unique and historically rich communities.
For more information, visit the official Payson Arizona website.
AZ 260 Road Conditions
