Jerome Historical Society

The inspiration for the organization of the Jerome Historical Society and the Mine Museum came from the late Jimmy Brewer who was the curator of the Tuzigoot National Monument. When the Big Mine closed on January 30, 1953, he addressed the town council saying, "I don't think you people realize what you have here. If you don't do something about it, all you will have left of your town is a pile of rubble." Jerome, America's Largest Ghost City slogan was his idea and has attracted tourists for many years.

March 15, 1953 marks the official birth of the Jerome Historical Society with their first annual election. It was officially incorporated by John Moore and James Haskins with Laura Williams as notary public.

In 1956, the society completed negotiations with Phelps Dodge assuring that no more buildings would be torn down in the main part of the town. In addition, the society succeeded in purchasing most of uptown Jerome; thus, securing Main Street.

Today, 2008, the Jerome Historical Society as complete refurbished the original museum and the archives contains over 12,000 photographs and documents that tell the rich history of the mining town perched precarious, on top of Cleopatra Hill.