A couple of weeks before Thanksgiving, Jim and I had a great time at the  Women of Ft. Lowell event watching the Bisbee Black Sox play the Tucson Saguaros in an old time baseball event. Following this event, he asked Randi Bellassai of the Arizona Experience here in Tucson, to write some history.

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Bisbee, Arizona boasts an exciting piece of baseball history. It is home to the Warren Ballpark, considered the oldest continuously used professional baseball venue in the country. The field was built in 1909, five years before Wrigley Field in Chicago!

Major League Enjoyment

Many baseball legends have hit the ball in Warren. Designed for miners and their families, the field quickly became a popular stop for traveling teams. On November 7, 1913, the big leagues hit the Warren Ballpark when the New York Giants played the Chicago White Sox in a post-season game as the two teams made their way around the world by steamship (including the Lusitania, from England back to the states) and passenger train. The celebrated tour received continuous press coverage throughout 1913-1914.

During the Bisbee game, Jim Thorpe, still legendary for his strength, speed, and endurance, literally hit the ball out of the park for a memorable home run. Hal Chase, of the Giants, the Yankees, and the Cincinnati Reds, played that day, too. He would return to the Warren Ballpark in a different context. Axed from the major leagues in 1920 for fixing games in the “Black Sox” scandal, Chase later became a player-manager for the Douglas Blues. In fact, several players banned from the majors played “outlaw baseball” in Warren for Frontier and Copper Leagues throughout the 1920s.

The Warren Ballpark held 1200 striking miners during the Bisbee deportation.
Photo Courtesy the Arizona Historical Society

The Warren Ballpark is also the home of a darker piece of history. In 1917, it held nearly 1,200 striking miners during one of the ugliest labor struggles the country has ever seen. The park acted as a holding pen for the union workers, who were herded into cattle cars and transported 200 miles without food or water to Hermanas, New Mexico, and told never to return to Bisbee.

However, the games never slowed during that lively era. Chicago Cubs, Philadelphia Athletics, Pittsburgh Pirates and Cleveland Indians, part of the Orange League and later the Cactus League, stood on the diamond regularly between the 1910s and the 1950s. Sometimes these teams would face each other in exhibition games. Often, the barnstorming team would play a local team, as did the Cubs on April 5, 1919. Numerous local leagues played, too.

In 1936, the ballpark received a much-needed facelift when the Works Project Association replaced its decaying wooden bleachers with a concrete grandstand. Though the improvements brought a resurgence of baseball, by 1955, the park’s main use was for high school games. For several decades the Warren Ballpark quietly deteriorated.

The Road to Renovation

In 2003, the minor leagues returned to the Warren Ballpark with the formation of the Copper Kings. Though the 2003 season was cut short, the league sparked interest in the historic field. The Friends of Warren Ballpark was formed in 2008 to preserve the Warren Ballpark and Bisbee’s baseball heritage.

Mike Anderson, a founding member of the Friends of Warren Ballpark, describes the field’s special place in history: “Warren Ballpark, like the rest of Bisbee, is a window into time. It is one of the best remaining examples of the ballparks that provided the primary focal point of community entertainment for thousands of towns and cities, large and small, across the United States during the first half of the 20th century. It was the place where residents of the Warren Mining District gathered to watch baseball, football, soccer, rugby, cricket, rodeo, professional wrestling and blockbuster silent movies.”

In 2010 the group began a new tradition for the old ball field—a vintage baseball event!  The Copper City Classic Vintage Baseball Tournament is bringing the glory days back in grand style. The event draws “vintage baseball” teams from as far away as Illinois. Fans, or “cranks” can watch teams play in colorful vintage uniforms and enjoy a slice of the past at this fun, unique hat tip to the national pastime.

On April 6th, and 7^th, 2013, the 4^th Annual Copper City Classic will celebrate the centennial of the Warren Ballpark exhibition game between  the New York Giants and the Chicago White Sox. Six future Hall of Fame inductees played on the Warren Ballpark that day.  The tour was a huge media event throughout 1913 and 1914. Vintage teams from Chicago and the Big Apple will step onto the Warren Ballpark to play against a host of other vintage teams in a two-day extravaganza.

Now the small field is seeing big plans. The Copper City Classic is becoming a national event, and the Warren Ballpark was recently featured on a Japanese TV program on vintage baseball along with Fenway, Wrigley, and Safeco Field in Seattle! The Copper Kings returned in 2008 and 2011 to play in the Pacific Southwest Baseball League.  The site is under consideration for designation as a part of a state historic district, and the facilities are being refurbished piece by piece. Renovation plans for bathrooms and the grandstand are in the works.

“The amazing thing about this ballpark is that it is still the focal point, 103 years after its opening, of outdoor community entertainment and events in Bisbee. And, if we can keep it in good shape, it will continue be a gathering place for Bisbee residents for decades, and hopefully centuries, to come,” says Anderson.

To learn more about the Warren Ballpark’s national baseball heritage, historic players, local leagues, and how you can help preserve this invaluable piece of American history, visit the Friends of Warren Ballpark.

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This article guest written by The Arizona Experience.

The Arizona Experience celebrates 100 years of statehood. Explore Arizona with interactive maps, oral histories, timelines, videos, images, and articles.  Plan the perfect vacation with the interactive Recreation and Cultural Sites Map and find lesson plans and dynamic classroom resources at the Teachers Center.

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What? Guided tour about the history and accomplishments of Fort Huchuca Buffalo Soldiers conducted by the Southwest Association of Buffalo Soldiers.
Where? Fort Huachuca at Sierra Vista
When? November 17th between 1 and 3 PM
More Info: 520-417-6960 or 800-288-3861

After the Civil War, the U.S. Army formed regiments of Negro men, most of whom were former slaves, and many of whom had served in the United States Colored Troops (U.S.C.T.). The cavalry units were the 9th and 10th Cavalry, and the infantry were the 38th, 39th, 40th, and 41st which several years later were consolidated into the 24th and 25th infantry units. Black infantry troops often fought side-by-side with the black cavalry.

These African-American soldiers were called “buffalo soldiers” by the Plains Indians. No one today is quite certain why.  Some say it was because the men were as rugged as buffalo and others say that it was because the Indians saw a resemblance between the Black soldier’s hair and the buffalo’s shaggy coat. It has also been pointed out that many Black soldiers favored long buffalo-robe coats. Although the name was primarily applied to the cavalry, it was sometimes extended to include the Black infantry.

After the Civil War, Blacks faced horrific discrimination. Some men enlisted to escape hopeless poverty and gain a certain respect, even though they were segregated from White troops. The Buffalo Soldiers fought in the Plains Indian Wars, the Apache Wars, the Spanish-American War, and The Punitive Mission against Mexico ordered by President Wilson and led by General John Pershing. Pershing had earned his nickname, ‘Black Jack,’ by leading Black regiments early in his career.

By all accounts, these Black regiments distinguished themselves in service to their country, despite being given inferior horses and equipment.

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What? 30th Annual Bisbee Historic Home Tour.
Visitors will see the miner’s shacks and other buildings that have been restored and decorated with Bisbee residents’ unique style. Ten homes, Saint Patrick’s Church and the Bisbee Woman’s Club building are featured on the tour.

Bisbee Festival of Lights
Also, Bisbee kicks off the holidays with its Festival of Lights all day Friday, Nov. 23 at City Park in historic Brewery Gulch. Live music, dancers, food, a craft fair, during the day, and the lighting ceremony that evening. Kids’ activities include an ornament-making class from 10 a.m. to noon and a decorating party from noon to 2 p.m. On Saturday, Nov. 24. Main Street will feature a “Small Town Holiday” with free horse-drawn wagon rides, carolers, window decorating contest, raffles and shopping until 8 p.m.
Where? Old Bisbee
When? November 23rd & 24th 9 AM to 4 PM
Cost? $15 for adults, children 12 and under FREE.
More Info: Bisbee Visitor Center at 520-432-3554 or 1-866-224-7233, www.DiscoverBisbee.com

Other Featured Homes

• “The Doll House,” a 1916 miner’s shack that and has been lovingly redone by the present owner. It’s a cozy 638-square-foot home with an eclectic combination of vintage shabby chic and Bisbee flair.
• A Mission-style bungalow built in 1915 during the Mexican Revolution and World War I. It features original woodwork and leaded glass in its inner entry door.
• A home built in the early 1900s as a miner’s shack. Much of the structure is made from mine timbers and 2” x 12” mine platform boards.

For our Bisbee Dining Recommendations, click HERE. Bisbee has several very good restaurants, including Santiago’s Mexican; Rose’s Little Italy, Hazel’s Table 10, and Cafe’ Roka.

For our Lodging Recommendations, click HERE. We particularly like Joy Timber’s Calumet & Arizona Guesthouse B&B in the Warren District, and the Eldorado Suites Hotel on OK Street overlooking Brewery Gulch in Old Bisbee.

Hotel Congress HoCo Fest 2012

What? HoCo Fest 2012. Party like it’s 1979! HoCo Fest started in 2004 and is Arizona’s longest running solar-powered music festival. Beginning on Friday, August 31 and continuing through Monday, September 3, HoCo Fest 2012 will take over Hotel Congress featuring local and national music acts playing on indoor and outdoor stages, with all ages welcome.
Where? Hotel Congress – Club Congress
When? Doors open at 7 p.m.
How Much? $15
More Info: http://www.hotelcongress.com/club/

Saturday September 1^st.

What? Tucson Museum of Miniatures – FREE ADMISSION TODAY ONLY
Come celebrate their 3^rd anniversary. The Mini Time Machine Museum of Miniatures, located in a 15,560 square foot, state-of-the-art museum displays an entertaining and interactive array of antique and contemporary miniatures as well as enchanting artifacts.

The Museum is a miniature time machine, by which the visitor sets off on a self-guided tour through different lands and times both real and imagined. Over 275 miniature houses, room boxes and enchanting collectibles are part of the extraordinary collection in this educational and magical environment, appealing to visitors of all ages, interests and talents.
Where?  4455 East Camp Lowell Drive, Tucson, AZ, 85712.

What? Concert for Kids
Children from all over Tucson, and as young as 2 years old, can explore a “magical” opportunity to interact and learn from a widely-recognized and talented educator, conductor and performer.

Exploring music since his roots in Europe and now working with children through local arts organizations, László Veres of the Tucson Pops Orchestra will engage with kids and teach the musical workings of instruments and sound during Musical Magic for Kids.
Where? Town of Oro Valley’s Council Chambers, 11000 N. La Canada Dr.
When? Concerts begin at 10 a.m. -”Peter and the Wolf” on Saturday, Sept. 1 and “The Nutcracker” on Saturday, Oct. 6
How Much? Free
More Info: www.saaca.org

What? Free Lecture: Wyatt Earp, Capitalist
Historian/author Garner Palenske presents this intriguing story of Wyatt Earp’s involvement in horse racing, gambling, and mining at Tombstone City Archives. Palenske is the author of the much acclaimed book, Wyatt Earp in San Diego, Life After Tombstone.

Free book given away and opportunity to meet the author immediately following at Tombstone Old West Books, 4th and Allen Streets.
Where? Tombstone City Archives 6th And Fremont Streets
When? 1:30 PM - 2:30 PM

 Saturday-Sunday-Monday September 1^st – 3^rd

What? Rendezvous of the Gunfighters
Gunfighter groups from throughout the U.S. gather in Tombstone to perform. Activities include a Most-Authentic Costume Contest. Sponsored by the Tombstone Wild Bunch.
Where? Tombstone / Allen Street / OK Corral
When? The 1880’s costume parade will begin Sunday, September 2^nd at 12 noon.
More Info: www.tombstonewildbunch.com/

 Sunday September 2nd

 What? Member-Only Pancake Breakfast in Celebration of The Desert Museum’s 60^th B’day.
Where? Ironwood Terrace Restaurant in the Desert Museum
When? 8 AM – 11 AM
How Much? Members 8 and older: $12. Ages 4-7: $5. Three & under and anyone born in 1952: FREE.

What? Bisbee’s 47th Annual Brewery Gulch Daze.
Events will include a the Soiled Dove Race, Wacky Pet Parade, Kids Games, Recycled Art Auction, Silent Auction, Miz Ole’ Biz Contest & live music by Buzz & the Soul Senders.
Where? Brewery Gulch in Old Bisbee.
When? 8 AM – 5 PM.
How Much? FREE (except food & drink, of course)

What? Jeff Kashiwa & Crystal Stark in Concert
Kashiwa is one of the most diverse, in demand sax players in all of contemporary jazz. A year after leaving The Rippingtons, Kashiwa was an immediate smash on the smooth jazz charts, scoring a #1 hit for over eight weeks on the Radio & Records chart.  His sound ranges from funky pop to more classic traditional jazz – this show will have it all.  Joining Kashiwa for several numbers will be Tucson favorite, singer Crystal Stark.
Where?  Loews Ventana Canyon, 7000 N. Resort Rd.
When?  7:30 PM
How Much? $20 – $35
More Info:  http://tucsonjazz.org/

 Throughout September

 What? Phantom of the Opera.
“Will the chorus girl Christine rise to the occasion after Diva Soprano, Carlotta, storms off the stage during dress rehearsal? Who will be seated in the mysterious Box #5…where programs disappear and ghoulish laughter echoes? Join the Gaslight artistes as they transform the stage back to post-Revolution Paris to revive The Phantom Of The Opera – a love story of musical inspiration and hidden longing, along with a palate-pleasing portion of goofy song and dance.“

Popcorn is complimentary to all theatre-goers, but there are also servers on-hand if you want to order from the menu.
Where? Gaslight Theater. 7010 E. Broadway.
When? Sundays at 3:00pm and 7:00pm; Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays at 7:00pm; Fridays and Saturdays at 6:00pm and 8:30pm.
How Much? $17.95/adults. $15.95/students, seniors, military. $7.95/children under 12.
More Info: http://www.thegaslighttheatre.com.

 September 5th

 What? Crosby, Stills & Nash
The music of David Crosby, Stephen Stills and Graham Nash is a cornerstone of rock & roll. This trio of legendary singer-songwriters has been actively collaborating since 1969, when they first harmonized in either Joni Mitchell’s living room or Mama Cass Elliot’s dining room, depending on which member you hear the story from.
Where? AVA amphitheater, 5655 West Valencia Rd
When?  8:00 p.m. Gates open 7:00 p.m.
How Much? $22 – $77
More Info: http://www.casinodelsol.com/events/crosby-stills-and-nash

What? Labor Day Jazz All-Star Celebration of Motown
The festivities will include tribute performances by an all-star jazz and R&B group, drink and dinner specials and a special resort price ($99) for guests staying overnight, followed by a Sunday brunch concert.
Where? Westin La Paloma Resort.
When? 7:30 PM.
How Much? $35 – $75.
More Info: www.azentertainmentandevents.com.

September 6^th – 9th

 What? JOGS Gem & Jewelry Show
A 4-day trade show of jewelry & gems from around the world with both wholesale & retail sales.Where? Tucson Expo Center, 3750 East Irvington Road.
When? September 6^th at 10 AM to September 9^th at 6 PM.
More Info: http://jogsshow.com

 Saturday Nights, September 8, 15, 22, & 29^th.

What? Band Concert
The Arizona Symphonic Winds, under the direction of László Veres, is Southern Arizona’s Premiere community concert band. Comprised of 65 volunteers, this musical organization presents concerts throughout the Tucson area and has been doing so for 20 years. Included in its repertoire are Broadway show tunes, orchestral transcriptions, movie themes, marches, and traditional band literature.

The Winds perform an average of sixteen concerts yearly including their outdoor series at Udall Park, a winter indoor series, and performances to the communities of SaddleBrooke and Oro Valley. The band frequently showcases both professional and amateur soloists, as well as talented young performers at its concerts, and continues the old American tradition of the free concert in the park for our community.Where? Udall Park; 7200 East Tanque Verde Road
When? 7 PM
How Much? FREE
More Info: http://www.azsymwinds.org

 Saturday September 8^th:

What? 2^nd Saturday Downtown Tucson
Downtown’s monthly family-friendly block party featuring live music, dance, & other performances.
Where: 125 E. Congress Street
When: 6 PM to 10:30 PM
How Much? FREE
More Info: http://www.2ndsaturdaysdowntown.com

What? The final Blue Grass concert of the summer season
Where? Crossroads at Silverbell Park; Marana
When? 6:15 PM: Desert Bluegrass Association Member Jam; 7 PM Superstition Ridge ensemble.
How Much? FREE
More Info: http://saaca.org/Marana_Backyard_Concerts.html

 Every Saturday In September

What? San Pedro River Walk from San Pedro House.
Join docents on a two-mile interpretive walk over easy terrain along the river every Saturday morning. The San Pedro River features some of the richest wildlife habitat in the United States. Wear appropriate attire for hiking and weather conditions. Bring at least one quart of water per person.

The San Pedro Riparian area is a stretch of some 40 miles (56,000 acres) along the San Pedro River, which flows north from near Cananea, Mexico to the Gila River. This riparian habitat is rare in the desert Southwest. It’s a place where plants and animals thrive because of the availability of water, either at or near the surface of the soil. The river can be spotted from far off because of the band of cottonwood trees that grow densely along its shores, drawing migrating birds and other wildlife.

The river has long had an attraction for man as well. Evidence of prehistoric hunters of 11,000 years ago has been found at Lehner Mammoth Site and Murray Springs Clovis Site.
Where? Sierra Vista – San Pedro House 9800 E. Highway 90.
When: Saturdays 8 AM to 12 Noon.
How Much? Donations are appreciated.
More Info: http://www.discoverseaz.com/Attractions/SPRNCA.html

 Saturdays & Sundays In September

 What? Concerts: Folk Songs & Ballads
Where? Arizona Folklore Preserve. South of Sierra Vista off Ramsey Canyon Road; 56  East Folklore Trail, Hereford, Arizona  85615.
When? Matinees start at 2 PM; doors open at 1 PM.
How Much? Adults: $15. Children 17 & under: $6.
More Info: http://arizonafolklore.com

Sunday September 9th

 What? Comedy Concert: Stand Up to Stop Violence
Get ready to go to a funny place you’ve never been before, where basketball heroes and talented comedians come together for charity. The Second Annual Stand Up to Stop Violence comedy fundraiser benefits the Emerge Center to Prevent Domestic Abuse and the Blair Charity Group.
Where? Fox Theater, Downtown Tucson
When? 7:00 pm
How Much? $15 – $100
More Info: FoxTheater.com

 Saturday September 15th

What? Bisbee Blues Festival featuring Leon J, Sean Trackman, Bad News Blues, Eddie Turner, Diunna Greenleaf.
Where? Warren Ballpark
When? Gates open at Noon. Show starts around 1 PM
How Much? $20 in advance; $25 at gate
More Info: thebisbeebluesfestival.com to purchase advance tickets

 Saturday, September 22^nd

What? Oro Valley Classics Car and Truck Show
Antique automobiles, old-time rock ‘n roll, and all-American food.  Live music: with rockabilly from The Outlaw Rebels at 11 a.m. and rock and country from Good Question at 1 p.m. 
Where? Oro Valley Marketplace, on the southwest corner of Oracle Road and Tangerine Road. 
When? 10 AM to 3 PM.
How Much? FREE

 Thursday Through Sunday September 20th – 23rd

 What? 37^th Annual Tucson Greek Festival
Real Greek food, beer, & wine. Live music & folk dancing. Kids’ rides & much more.
Where? St. Demetrios Greek Orthodox Church: 1145 E. Ft. Lowell Road. Tucson.
When? Thursday: 5 PM – 10 PM. Friday: 5 PM – 11 PM. Saturday: 4 PM – 11 PM. Sunday: Noon – 6 PM
How Much? Daily Pass: Admission $3; Children Under 12 Free. 4-Day Pass: $5. Active Duty Military & Seniors: Free Saturday 4 PM – 6 PM. Free Parking & Shuttle Service.
More Info: www.TucsonGreekFestival.com.

 Friday September 21st

What? Oktoberfest in Sierra Vista
Beer garden, live music, oompah bands, dancing, carnival rides, food vendors, and crafts.
Why celebrate Oktoberfest in September? In October of 1810, Bavarian Crown Prince Ludwig I (later King Ludwig I) married Princess Therese. That year, the festivities lasted five days. But five days wasn’t enough time to enjoy all the music, singing, eating and drinking. As the years went on, the festivities lasted longer and began earlier to take advantage of Germany’s nicer weather in September. So, the 16-day celebration takes place up to and including the first Sunday in October.
Where? Veterans’ Memorial Park
When? 5 p.m. to 11 p.m., Friday, Sept. 14; 11 a.m. to 11 p.m., Saturday, Sept. 15.
How Much? FREE Admission
More Info: 520-417-6960, 520-458-7922.

 Thursday September 27^th – Sunday September 30^th

What?  4^th Annual Tucson Flamenco Festival. This four-day festival features an outdoor stage with guest artists from around the world, plus Spanish wine tasting, an outdoor bar, flamenco fashion show, and a late-night Spanish Fiesta atmosphere.
Where? Casa Vicente Restaurant: 375 S. Stone – Downtown Tucson.
When? Thursday PM though Sunday PM. Thursday, September 27th: 8 pm–10 pm. Doors open 8 PM; 8:30 PM – Moda Flamenca, a flamenco fashion show featuring a dozen designers and their flamenco and flamenco-inspired couture; 9:30 PM – Guitarras Flamencas y Guitarras Espanol, Misael Barraza, Chuscales, and others.
How Much? $15 – $200. Click here for tickets: http://www.tucsonflamencofestival.com/tickets/
More Info: http://www.downtowntucson.org/event/4th-annual-tucson-flamenco-festival.

 Friday September 28th

What? Nightfall at Old Tucson.
Old Tucson becomes a haunted ghost town, with hideous beasts and monsters, ghoulish stunts, and frightening shows.Where? Old Tucson: 201 S. Kinney Road, Tucson, AZ 85735
When? Thursday through Sundays in October from 6 PM to Closing. Preview weekend is September 28-30.
How Much? Unknown at time of post.
More Info: http://oldtucson.com. Phone: 520-908-4833.

 Friday September 28^th & Saturday the 29^th

What? Desert Museum 12^th Annual Plant Sale.
Go to the ASDM digital library for images and information on many of these plants. You are encouraged to bring your empty 1 gallon nursery pots to the sale. They will reuse them next year, saving earth’s resources, landfill space, and helping us keep costs down. The gallon size is the only one they currently need.
When? Friday, Members Only: 2:00 – 6:30 p.m. Saturday, Open to Public: 7:30 AM to 3 PM.
How Much: Regular Admission Price
More Info: http://www.desertmuseumdigitallibrary.org/public/index.php

What? Arizona’s Salsa Trail – SalsaFest
Arizona’s Salsa Trail celebrates the annual SalsaFest featuring the salsa challenge, Jalapeno eating competition, Chihuahua races, car show and hot air balloons. Arizona’s Sprinkled through the small Southern Arizona communities of Safford, Pima, Thatcher, Solomon, Clifton, Duncan, Willcox, and York are a dozen Mexican restaurants ready to serve up fine Mexican food.

The scenic Old West Highway connects the communities and businesses which are within a 40 mile radius of Safford – about and hour and a half east and slightly north of Tucson.

In addition to good food and friendly folks, tourists are beginning to discover the natural beauty and tucked away attractions that dot the map along the Salsa Trail®. There are over 4 million acres of National Forest and protected Wilderness lands, pristine high desert beauty, the lush Gila Valley, and towering pines on Mount Graham. Graham County is filled with so many things to do throughout its little communities, and has some of the most beautiful scenic terrain in the entire Southwest.
Where? Safford Town Square. 1111 Thatcher Blvd. (Hwy 70), Safford, AZ 85546
When? Starts Friday 5 PM on Main Street; Safford. Saturday, Hot Air Balloons take flight from the Fair Grounds at Day Break. Saturday AM Salsa Contests, live entertainment, etc. plus Car Show on Main Street.
How Much? Mostly FREE, except if you want to taste the Salsa, you have to buy chips ($4). Proceeds go to Lions Club charities.
More Info? http://www.salsatrail.com/salsafest. Phone: 928-428-2511

What? HoCo Fest 2012.
Party like it’s 1979! HoCo Fest started in 2004 and is Arizona’s longest running solar-powered music festival. Beginning on Friday, August 31 and continuing through Monday, September 3, HoCo Fest 2012 will take over Hotel Congress featuring local and national music acts playing on indoor and outdoor stages, with all ages welcome.
Where? Hotel Congress – Club Congress
When? Doors open at 7 p.m.
How Much? $15
More Info: http://www.hotelcongress.com/club/

Saturday September 1^st

What? Concert for Kids
Children from all over Tucson, and as young as 2 years old, can explore a “magical” opportunity to interact and learn from a widely-recognized and talented educator, conductor and performer.

Exploring music since his roots in Europe and now working with children through local arts organizations, László Veres of the Tucson Pops Orchestra will engage with kids and teach the musical workings of instruments and sound during Musical Magic for Kids.
Where? Town of Oro Valley’s Council Chambers, 11000 N. La Canada Dr.
When? Concerts begin at 10 a.m. -”Peter and the Wolf” on Saturday, Sept. 1 and “The Nutcracker” on Saturday, Oct. 6
How Much? Free
More Info: www.saaca.org

What? Free Lecture: Wyatt Earp, Capitalist
Historian/author Garner Palenske presents this intriguing story of Wyatt Earp’s involvement in horse racing, gambling, and mining at Tombstone City Archives. Palenske is the author of the much acclaimed book, Wyatt Earp in San Diego, Life After Tombstone.
Free book given away and opportunity to meet the author immediately following at Tombstone Old West Books, 4th and Allen Streets.
Where? Tombstone City Archives 6th And Fremont Streets
When? 1:30 PM - 2:30 PM

Saturday-Sunday-Monday September 1^st – 3^rd

What? Rendezvous of the Gunfighters
Gunfighter groups from throughout the U.S. gather in Tombstone to perform. Activities include a Most-Authentic 1880′s Costume Contest. Sponsored by the Tombstone Wild Bunch.
Where? Tombstone / Allen Street / OK Corral
When? The 1880’s costume parade will begin Sunday, September 2^nd at 12 noon.
More Info: www.tombstonewildbunch.com/

Sunday September 2nd

What? Members’-Only Pancake Breakfast in Celebration of The Desert Museum’s 60^th B’day.
Where? Ironwood Terrace Restaurant in the Desert Museum
When? 8 AM – 11 AM
How Much? Members 8 and older: $12. Ages 4-7: $5. Three & under and anyone born in 1952: FREE.
What Else? If you’re not a member, you oughta be. Just sayin’.

What? Bisbee’s 47th Annual Brewery Gulch Daze.
Events will include a the Soiled Dove Race, Wacky Pet Parade, Kids Games, Recycled Art Auction, Silent Auction, Miz Ole’ Biz Contest & live music by Buzz & the Soul Senders.
Where? Brewery Gulch in Old Bisbee.
When? 8 AM – 5 PM.
How Much: Depends on how many beers you buy.

What? Jeff Kashiwa & Crystal Stark in Concert
Kashiwa is one of the most diverse, in demand sax players in all of contemporary jazz. A year after leaving The Rippingtons, Kashiwa was an immediate smash on the smooth jazz charts, scoring a #1 hit for over eight weeks on the Radio & Records chart.  His sound ranges from funky pop to more classic traditional jazz – this show will have it all.  Joining Kashiwa for several numbers will be Tucson favorite, singer Crystal Stark.
Where?  Loews Ventana Canyon, 7000 N. Resort Rd.When?  7:30 PM
How Much? $20 – $35
More Info:  http://tucsonjazz.org/

The Bar At Santiago’s in Old Bisbee

July 2012
Just about every time I have gone to Bisbee over the past year I have tried to dine at Santiago’s Mexican Restaurant. However, something always managed to spoil my plans…until last week.

Ambiance
I had heard a lot of positive comments about Santiago’s as I wandered Old Bisbee taking photographs and talking with the natives. Now I know why. Just walking in the front door will put a smile on your face. The interior is light and colorful, even playful. Very Mexican in the best possible sense. Santiago’s is a happy place.

History
Santiago’s is also a historic place. The restaurant is located on the ground floor of the San Ramon Hotel. I have not stayed there yet, but owner/manager Tamara Page give me a quick tour that morning. Looked to me like a fine old hotel in a prime Old Bisbee location.

The red brick building is of 1902 vintage at the base of Brewery Gulch and OK Street. While places like the San Ramon have a million stories, one in particular caught my attention.

The old building, restored and well-maintained, had, over the previous century, been at various times a: grocery store, pharmacy, miners’ bath house, barber shop, mercantile, Moose Lodge, tortilla factory, and a hay, coal, and firewood outlet.

When the present owners were purchasing this property, they came across a familiar name in a report that listed the previous owners and tenants. Seems the proprietor of the Central Pharmacy, located here in 1912, was a Frenchman, Leonnard Vigneaux.

Up until that moment, the aspiring new owners had no idea that their great-grandfather, Leonnard Vigneaux, had been here before them. Leonnard married Maria Enriqueta Rivera Baz in 1907, most likely in the Presbyterian Church up the street where, nearly a hundred years later, the current owners exchanged vows.

WOW! Stories like that give me goose bumps.

Staff
Clearly, Santiago’s staff had been very well selected & trained, a testament to good management. They were (a) professional; (b) personable; (c) quick-witted, and (d) helpful in choosing just the right margarita (6 at last count & w/premium tequila if you wish) to go with any of the dozens of meal choices. Now, how many dining establishments can boast this combination of delightful ambiance, amazing history, & personable, efficient staff? Sadly, too few.

But wait! What about the food?

We have now arrived at the best part. Santiago’s offers a lot of typical Mexican dishes: enchiladas, tacos, burritos, fajitas, chimichangas, tamales, moles, & chili rellenos with assorted meats: pork, chicken, beef, and seafood, including shrimp.

I know what you’re thinking. So does just about every Mexican restaurant in Southern Arizona. What’s so special about Santiago’s?

Flavor. No, I mean BIG FLAVOR. And no, I don’t mean a lot of flavor as a result of super-hot chili peppers either. Flavor is actually a misnomer. Flavor(s) plural is more accurate. Santiago’s chef seems to have the magical touch of blending traditional and her unique, but mysterious flavors that make “just a taco” exceptional.

In addition to a fine taco, I should mention a few other consumables of note. My lunch also included a corn tamale. Was it as good as the ones at the Tucson Tamale Company on Broadway (see review). Not sure. But would hate to have to live on the difference.

For a drink, I had Santiago’s regular margarita (with salt) that arrived on my table moments after my waitress brought me fresh chips and a tasty salsa. Excellent timing. Excellent salsa.

I had considered ordering one of their special margaritas with a premium tequila. But as this was only suppose to be a light lunch, I exerted exceptional willpower. I can tell you that Santiago’s regular margarita is as good as the regular margaritas you will find at Southern Arizona’s best Mexican restaurants … and I mean that as high praise.

As I was finishing my “exceptionally flavorful” taco, I asked to see the owner or manager. Suzanne Page, owner AND manager, presented herself shortly. I told her that I publish Southern Arizona Guide and want to compliment her on her wonderful restaurant.

It took me a moment to realize that Suzanne Page is the sister-in-law of Tamara Page, the nice lady upstairs who had earlier that morning given me a tour of the hotel. Apparently, these ladies are married to a pair of brothers named Page, Mike & Rob. Or so they say. I never met the guys, so cannot confirm this rumor.

I don’t usually introduce myself when doing a review. I don’t want any special favors. And I always pay for my meal. No comps. But I didn’t think introducing myself would hurt just this once. After all, I was enjoying a very good lunch experience.

Santiago’s Molcajete: Yum!

The Molcajete Experience
Suzanne & I had chatted for a while when she “suggested” I try their “molcajete”. At her “suggestion”, the word went to the kitchen to prepare a Santiago’s Molcajete. I had just had a very good lunch and now I was going to at least sample a dish that I had never heard of. Oh, the sacrifices I make for you people.

While we awaited my molcajete, Suzanne explained that it’s a traditional dish in Oaxaca, Mexico, but her chef adds a flair of her own.

Ingredients include: steak & sautéed jumbo shrimp served atop an ancho chipotle chili stew with grilled red & green peppers, Oaxacan cheese & organic quinoa garnished with fresh limes and pico de gallo, plus some secret ingredients that the chef won’t even reveal to her.

FYI: according to Wikipedia, that source of all modern knowledge, the pobiano is a mild chili pepper originating in the Mexican state of Puebla. When it’s dried, it’s called a chili ancho (“wide chili”)

Well, I like steak. And I like shrimp. How bad could it be, thought I?

My molcajete arrived with a flair of its own. This “stew” comes in a VERY HOT volcanic lava bowl … so hot that as it was set on my table it bubbled like a witch’s caldron. This was either going to be the Mexican dish to beat all Mexican dishes, or a disaster.

I asked Suzanne how it’s suppose to be eaten. She shoved the little basket of fresh corn tortillas my way and told me to put a piece of steak or shrimp and some of the juices on one, roll it up, and take a bite … kinda like a bubbling taco.

I know is sounds silly that I should have to inquire as to how one should eat such a dish, but experience tells me that when I have never seen anything like it and the food is still moving (bubbling), it’s best to ask.

I neatly placed a jumbo shrimp on my tortilla with a liberal helping of whatever else was in that stew and took a bite. The mixture of flavors was both surprising and delightful. But it was only one bite. I wasn’t ready yet to commit.

Santiago’s Chef Karina & Owner Suzanne Page.

I tried another, this time with a bite of steak instead of shrimp. The meat was well-marinated and very tender. And amazingly flavorful. This was indeed special.

I asked to meet the chef so I could express appropriate homage. Chef Karina Franco-Batty arrived at my table. She is obviously a modest woman, but with a sure sense of her extraordinary cooking skills. She seemed pleased that I like her cooking and agreed to let me take her photograph. I was honored.

Santiago’s Mexican Restaurant is now on my alter dedicated to the best of the best Southern Arizona Mexican Restaurants along with Tucson’s Theresa’s Mosaic Café, El Charro Café Downtown on Court Street, Café Poca Cosa on Pennington, and Tubac’s Elvira’s.  When you’re in Bisbee, definitely have lunch and/or dinner at Santiago’s. And say “Hi” to Suzanne & Chef Karina for me. I’ll be back in August.

For all of our dining reviews, including our 2012 List of the Best Restaurants in Southern Arizona (by category), go to SouthernArizonaGuide.com. I’ll be adding Santiago’s here next week.

Bisbee Grand Hotel & Saloon on Main Street

I have had the pleasure of staying in many historical hotels & inns, including European castles. Considering their antiquity, travelers have to decide if the experience of living temporarily in a relic is worth doing without certain modern amenities and putting up with a few quirks & inconveniences.

Historical Experience
To get the most out of such an experience, we do well to become familiar with the history of these old buildings. Few Old West establishments have more history than the Bisbee Grand Hotel in the heart of Old Bisbee. Once you understand the history of the place, your imagination is free to take you on a journey back in time.

Historical Quirks
Like almost all historic hotels & inns, the old wood floors of the Bisbee Grand squeak & groan under the weight of ever footstep. We can choose to find this annoying, or part of its aging charm.

Rooms & Suites & Rates
The Bisbee Grand has seven guestrooms & six suites ranging in price from about $100 to $175 per night including “breakfast” and tax.

Bisbee Grand Hotel Saloon. Bartender Kristen serves a beer to a painter in town to spruce up the old place.

Location: Central + A Convenient Saloon
The location of the Grand is seemingly hard to beat. It’s right on Main Street, easy walking distance to most of the old city, including its best restaurant, Café Roka.

Even better, the hotel has it’s own saloon on the ground floor where locals and guests mingle freely. They do serve some foods there too…not at the actual bar, but in the adjacent dining room/piano parlor/pool hall. While I did sample a beer or two (Old Monkey Shine from our local Nimbus Brewery in Tucson), I didn’t dine here. So, can’t comment.

The bar and back bar are old, perhaps as old as the hotel-saloon. The bartender explained that though they aren’t original to this saloon, they were brought here from an old saloon in Tombstone. I had a beer with one of the painters who was there to paint some rooms upstairs and portions of the old bar. Good. It needed professional refinishing and a couple coats of high-quality paint.

Restoration & Upgrades
The Grand was built in 1906, restored in Old West Victorian style around 1986, and has seen numerous upgrades since, such as air conditioning in 2008.

Plumbing, Electrical, & WiFi
One typically problematic aspect of old hotels & inns is the antiquated plumbing and electrical. Things just don’t work like we moderns expect them to. Unfortunately, it costs a fortune to upgrade such infrastructure. And when one considers the added cost of upgrading the roof, carpets, windows & doors, it’s easy to see that owning an old hotel like the Grand is a vast, bottomless money pit.

My suite, the Hollywood Western on the main floor next to the hotel’s saloon, had a large, Jacuzzi bathtub. It also had a modern low-flow toilet. (Let’s hear it for the Grand’s sense of ecological responsibility!)

The electrical worked fine, as did the Hotel’s high-speed WiFi (Just don’t forget the password is in ALL CAPS). And the staff was quick to fulfill my request for a chair and small desk so I could work on my laptop. Why these suites don’t come automatically with a chair and desk was not explained.

Bisbee Grand Hotel Dining Area Adjacent To The Saloon.

Furnishings
The Grand has some period furnishings, but the rooms are mainly of a quirky nature. Each has a theme. For instance, the suites each have their own distinctive name & are decorated accordingly: The Oriental; The Captain’s; The Hacienda; The Garden; The Western; & The Hollywood.

In addition to a large, high-off-the-floor wood-framed bed, my suite also had a lot of wood-framed posters on the walls of my childhood cowboy movie & TV heroes. There they were: Hoppy and the Lone Ranger. Gene Autry & Roy Rogers. And I had almost forgot them…Lash LaRue and Rex Allen. Boy… the memories.

And, can you believe, in the second bedroom of my Hollywood Western suite was another bed, this one ingeniously integrated into a covered wagon. A covered wagon…right there in the second bedroom! That’s right, folks. Doesn’t get better than that.

Size
The suites are spacious compared to the regular rooms, and the high ceilings give each space an even larger feeling. There were ceiling fans in just about every room. In my case, much appreciated.

Hauntings
The Grand, like so many places in this old town, is said to be haunted. Methinks, this may be a marketing ploy to jack up room rates. In my experience, one must first believe in the possibility of ghosts before one can actually see them. I have stayed in several of Bisbee’s “most haunted” and have yet to experience even a bump-in-the-night.

A Few Little Issues
Now, for those little “problematic” issues I mentioned.

At least in my suite, quaint as it was, there was no microwave oven or hair dryer. Why? I have no idea.

Nor was my suite furnished with a few tea bags. Coffee and a coffee maker to be sure. But not tea. What’s with that? Fortunately, I had brought several bags of Earl Grey with me. But I had to use the coffee maker to heat my tea water. This isn’t a big problem, except that doing it this way results in the first couple of cups of tea having the unmistakable tinge of stale coffee.

There was no refrigerator in my suite, nor an ice machine nearby. I had go outside and walk ALL THE WAY OVER to the saloon to get a bucket of ice. This was not a huge inconvenience since the saloon was only a few paces from the front door of my suite. But, if the saloon had been closed, I would have been “…. outa-luck”.

Breakfast, such as it was, included not-so-fresh coffee cakes & various stale Danish pastries. Coffee, yes. Tea, no. In fairness, the fruit … cantaloupe & watermelon … was fresh.

It was a “serve yourself” breakfast on cheap plates, with cheap flatware, and orange juice from a can, rather than fresh squeezed.

No freshly made eggs of any style. No freshly fried, crisp bacon. No fresh-baked, hot-from-the-oven, croissants. Just something in a vat that may have been a combination of chopped potatoes and sausage bits. In other words, it was a cheap, minimalist breakfast.

This was not exactly Joy Timber’s Calumet & Arizona Guest House in Bisbee’s Warren District (see our video). If you stay there, you will get a delicious breakfast, made to order.

Here’s my recommendation if you stay at the Grand. Even though the “breakfast” is included in the nightly rate, walk down the street to the Bisbee Coffee Company, a Starbucks by another name.

Remember I said that the location was right on Main Street, convenient walking distance to nearly all of the historic sights. Like most things in life, this benefit involves a few trade-offs. Two incidents come to mind.

First, while fumbling for my room key, right there on the sidewalk of Main Street in Old Bisbee, I had the most interesting conversation (mercifully short) with two meth addicts. Seems they were a little short on cash and wondered if I could spare a dime.

Well, of course. As luck would have it, I am one of the most fortunate individuals on the planet. Who am I to deny the less fortunate?

The second incident occurred the following morning when I was awakened to the dulcet tones of a City garbage truck picking up trash a few feet from my street-side room. Lovely!

As to the proximity of the saloon, it was a convenience for me. But I can imagine if I had taken a room above the saloon on a Friday or Saturday night when a band plays there, it might have been a bit too noisy to sleep. I mention this because I have heard this complaint from others.

From what I could see, the Grand needs a thorough cleaning. A fresh coat of paint wouldn’t hurt. And the high-traffic areas of carpeting are so old they probably can’t be cleaned any more. Dingy.

Thankfully, my room had A/C as it was hot and muggy (late July 2012). But the machine produced prodigious quantities of condensation and soon water was dripping down one wall and onto furniture, forming a large puddle of water on the old wood floor.

I used all my available towels to try to sop up the mess. Joe, the manager-on-duty, came to see the trouble and said, “Ya, we’ve tried to have that fixed. For now, it’s just the way it is.”

Back to the plumbing fixtures. My suite had a large, totally out-of-historical-place Jacuzzi bathtub, which I would never use since it is not located on a balcony overlooking the old city. In fact, it’s located in a bathroom with no windows or view of anything.

What I want in accommodations is mainly two things: a comfortable bed and a good shower.

By “good” bed, I mean a bed in which I can sleep peacefully through the night and not wake up with a back and neck ache that render me incapacitated for the next 24 hours. Don’t know about the other beds at the Grand, but I definitely do not recommend the one in the Hollywood Western suite.

By “good” bed, I mean one like the one I slept on two weeks ago at the Eldorado Suites Hotel overlooking Brewery Gulch. Not only exceedingly comfortable, but the linens were first-rate. Can’t say that about the Grand.

By “good” shower, I’m talking lots of water pressure & volume with water temperature that can easily be regulated to my liking. In Bisbee, my shower standard is Suite #1 at the Eldorado Suites Hotel. Best shower in Southern Arizona as far as I know.

In my shower at the Grand, the water temperature vacillated uncontrollably between frigid and scolding. Let’s just say it made for a very quick shower. To add insult to injury, the shower was a cheap fiberglass mold, hardly in keeping with my historical expectations. All together, not a good shower experience.

Oh, and did I mention that the suites at Bisbee Grand Hotel do NOT include a kitchen. If you want a spacious, modern, comfortable, as well as historical suite in Old Bisbee, with full modern kitchen, then once again I recommend the Eldorado (Click here to see our review).

I expected a good experience at the Bisbee Grand since TripAdvisor.com rated it the same as the Eldorado … 4.5 out of 5. This is just a reminder to me that reviews on such international websites as TripAdvisor, Yelp and others can be wildly misleading.

July 2012
I went to Bisbee this time of year to make photographs with interesting skies created by our dramatic summer monsoon clouds. I also needed to gather additional material for dining & lodging reviews so you would have more recommendations for things to see & do, plus where to find the best dining and lodging.

General Bisbee Info
For those of you who don’t know, Bisbee is an old copper-mining town about 2 hours southeast of Tucson and a half hour past Tombstone. At one time, it was the largest city between St. Louis and San Francisco.

The place reeks of early 20^th century history, but is now as much an antique destination and art community as anything. To get a sense of Bisbee’s glorious past, I generally recommend first-time visitors do three things to get oriented.

1. Walk about town whenever possible. Driving will keep you from experiencing many half-hidden and worthwhile places. Moreover, driving will prevent you from meeting a lot of interesting people.
2. Take a leisurely drive or stroll up and down the hilly streets above the city and you will see a lot of interesting and historic homes, churches, and other buildings.
3. Visit the Bisbee Mining & Historical Museum, the big red brick building on the main drag. They have excellent exhibits and do a fine job of telling Bisbee’s story.

The Museum’s Executive Director, Carrie Gustavson, gave an excellent on-camera interview for our SouthernArizonaGuide.com. The video will help you understand the early life of Bisbee and why it eclipsed Tombstone as the most important southwestern outpost. Click here to view her video.

In addition to Bisbee’s fine art galleries, antique shops & general Old West history, a lot of folks go there just to people-watch. One might describe Bisbee’s hippy & biker inhabitants as “colorful”. The old saloons, such as St. Elmo’s along Brewery Gulch, are good places to make acquaintance with the indigenous population.

I have generally found Bisbee-ites of all stripes to be friendly and helpful. More than anything, Bisbee is a pleasant state of mind: laid-back with a definite sense of community. (Actually several communities with in a community.)

Eldorado Suites Hotel
Before I went, I checked out the usual customer-review websites, such as TripAdvisor, and settled on the 3-story Eldorado Suites Hotel overlooking Brewery Gulch. I was not disappointed. This is a very fine historic hotel. It features a private courtyard with patio seating & BBQ in back and panoramic views of the city from its long balconies in front.

Unlike so many old hotels in Southern Arizona that were built mostly of wood more than a hundred years ago, the Eldorado was constructed of concrete in 1914. Eight-inch thick cement walls make this structure not only sturdy for the ages, but remarkably quiet.

All rooms are not just “a room”, but rather whole suites, each with a modern kitchen, comfortable sitting room with sofa and (can you believe it?) a recliner, and a sizable bedroom with ceiling fan and walk-in closet. And the most comfortable beds in the known universe.

If you are traveling with family or friends, you can reserve a second bedroom or adjacent suite. This place has everything … everything, except coasters for drinks. What’s with that?

The Eldorado is not a B&B. No food served here. Not that this is a problem even if you didn’t bring your own groceries. It’s easy walking distance to Santiago’s and many other worthwhile restaurants in the historic district. Additionally, many of Bisbee’s 19^th century saloons serve decent pub grub. On this trip, I had an excellent chicken club sandwich at St. Elmo’s bar just down the street from my hotel, but had to order it next door. (Don’t ask. Just do it!)

In the evening, I enjoyed sitting on my veranda overlooking the old city watching the intermittent black monsoon clouds drop torrents of rain and spew bolts of lightening. Quite the show… and FREE!

Is the Eldorado Suites the best place to stay in Bisbee. Perhaps. Probably. You don’t get the creaky old floors, tiny rooms, and antiquated facilities of some of the old hotels on Main Street. But you do get authentic history, spacious comfort, interesting views, and modern facilities. No, the Eldorado is not the least expensive. The best of anything seldom is. However, to me it was well worth the $140 price tag ($125+Tax).

Included: Wi-Fi, cable TV, hair dryer, on-site washer & dryer, fully-equipped kitchen, excellent linens & towels, a bear claw bathtub and the best shower this side of an Irish castle.

The Eldorado is not particularly handicap-friendly, but none of these old hotels are. Too many stairs. But for the Eldorado’s ground-floor suites, you only have to negotiate a couple of steps.

Not included: ghosts.

Ghosts
I didn’t see any ghosts at the Eldorado. Nor was I promised any.  Lots of places in Bisbee are “said” to be haunted. The historic old Grand Hotel on Main Street, for example. The bartender there described to me several unexplained “events” she had personally experienced. Spooky.

A few years ago, Ms. Karen, friend Kent, and I stayed up until 2 AM playing poker on the 3^rd floor inner-balcony of the Copper Queen Hotel awaiting the arrival of their ghosts. Nothing. Nada. Zip.

If you want to scare yourself, the Eldorado isn’t the place to stay. On the other hand, unlike other places down here, they don’t charge extra for the “possibility”. If you’re serious about finding the ghosts of Bisbee, I suggest you arrange a ghost hunt from a real, certified “paranormal investigator” such as Renee at Old Bisbee Ghost Tours. I have not taken her Bisbee tour, but I did go on her Downtown Tucson Ghost Tour. What fun!

If you go, say “Hi from Jim” to the ladies of Eldorado: Kathy, Lisa, and owner, Justine. They made my stay most enjoyable.

Eldorado Suites Hotel: Highly Recommended.
For more recommendations for where to stay & dine in and near Bisbee, go to: Southern Arizona Guide > Dining & Lodging Reviews.