Prescott Information

The area around Prescott was first settled in 1864 by miners prospecting for gold. It was the presence of gold that prompted the cash-poor Union to designate Arizona as a territory in 1863. President Abraham Lincoln chose an area just north of Prescott as the first seat of government because the gold fields were nearby and because Southern sympathizers dominated Tucson. In 1867 the capitol was moved south to Tucson. However, Prescott briefly became capital again in 1877, a title it lost to Phoenix in 1889.

Named to honor historian William Hickling Prescott, the town was incorporated in 1883. Because of the surrounding pine forests, wooden structures rather than the typical adobe buildings were built. Fire devastated Prescott in 1900, but determined townsfolk rebuilt and developed a water system utilizing Del Rio Springs.

Surrounded by mountain ranges and nearly encircled by the Prescott National Forest, the town is now a resort community. Outdoor enthusiasts can indulge in camping, horseback riding, hiking, fishing, rockhounding and picnicking.

Yavapai Downs offers Thoroughbred and quarterhorse races Saturday through Tuesday, Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day weekend; phone (928) 775-8000.

Note: Policies concerning admittance of children to pari-mutuel betting