Culture and History

History of the Payson Region

Remnants of prehistoric dwellings inhabited by the region’s early residents still dot the area. Archeological studies show that some of these ancient inhabitants had a unique "occipital bun" or protrusion on the backs of their heads.

Soldiers from the U. S. Army’s Fort McDowell, Camp Reno and Camp Verde are believed to have been the first white men to venture into the Payson area, during the Civil War.

The Union Army had established those military posts in the Arizona Territory to protect against an expected invasion from the Confederate Army. When the Civil War ended, the troops in the Territory were assigned to protect the settlers there from marauding Apache Indians.

Among those settlers were miners who had made their way to the Rim Country after hearing tales from the soldiers of gold and silver in the area. Forty of the settlers located in what then was called, at times, Big Valley, Long Valley, Green Valley, and Union Park, and now is Payson.

Another area, Pleasant Valley was the home of the legendary Graham-Tewksbury feud– known as The Pleasant Valley War - began in the 1870's and endured 15 years, claiming dozens of lives.

Cultural Activities

In spite of the area’s remoteness and rural charm, there are a variety of cultural opportunities available in Arizona Rim Country.

Arts - Local musical groups such as the "Payson Choral Society" and "Rim Civic Orchestra" perform several productions each year.

The Rim Repertory Community Theater traditionally produces two plays annually. The Payson Fine Art Guild and Payson Art League involve artists working in a variety of media. They offer workshops and exhibitions.

In addition to quality local talent, the Tonto Community Concert Association sponsors a number of quality performances by artists from outside the area.

Also, the Town of Payson offers free concerts every Saturday night for several weeks during the summer. These professional groups perform under the stars at Green Valley Park.

Museums – The region’s history is preserved and retold in area museums. These include the Rim Country Museum, Pine/Strawberry Museum and the new Museum of Rim Country Archeology. You can visit the Northern Gila County Historical Society at http://www.rimcountrymuseums.org and the Pine Strawberry Archeological and Historical Society at http://www.pinestrawhs.org.

Payson and Arizona Rim Country were also the stomping grounds for legendary western author Zane Grey. Grey lived in the area for a number of years and the region was the source of inspiration for a number of his 60 plus books as well as the location for many of the 130 movies based on his writings. The Zane Grey Cabin is also currently under development.

Rodeo – Payson is the official home of the "World’s Oldest Continuous Rodeo." This tradition continues along with other outdoor events at the new Payson Events Center.