At the same time, Prescott was established as the Territorial Capital, it was also designated as the County Seat for Yavapai County, one of the four original territorial counties. The Capital later moved to Tucson in 1867 and finally to Phoenix in 1889.

The Fire of 1900 brought on a new era of architecture but it also stimulated social and public improvements. Much of Prescott’s vast history will touch on famous figures such as Wyatt Erp and Charlotte Hall, amongst many others. In fact, a historical timeline is prominently displayed at the Yavapai County Courthouse Plaza. This timeline receives thousands of visitors annually.

Subsequently, the town of Prescott Valley was officially founded in 1978, although its history dates back to the 1800s. Chino Valley, with roots also dating back to the mid-1800s, was officially incorporated in 1970.

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Strolling through the downtown area, you will notice several historic buildings. Some are in the process of restoration and others are preserved as they appeared at the turn of the century. Historic churches, the County Courthouse, the Sharlot Hall Museum (with the old log structures), the stately Victorian homes, the Hassayampa Hotel, the Hotel Vendome, and the Elks

Theater all give testimony to Prescott’s rich past.

Shopping is a one-of-a-kind experience in downtown Prescott. A wide range of choices is available from practical simplicity to the exquisite. Unique southwestern wear, curios and souvenirs, handcrafted jewelry, vintage apparel, designer fashions, and home decorating items reflect the southwestern lifestyle. Antique stores abound; the downtown antique emporiums offer collections ranging from distinctive to whimsical.

Prescott’s rugged beauty, history, and southwestern ambiance are reflected in much of the art that is displayed in the Prescott galleries. Here you’ll find both traditional and contemporary art by local artists. One of the most

relaxing moments after a fulfilling day of browsing and shopping or sightseeing is sitting down to a delightful

lunch or dinner or perhaps just a great cup of coffee.

Downtown Prescott is a cornucopia of wonderful sights smells and tastes. From laidback burgers and brew to elegant

gourmet dining, NewOrleans shrimp texas steak, Prescott’sfare is served up in their unique, historic southwest atmosphere by friendly down-home folks. For excitement, round off the evening with some foot stompin’ country-western music along Prescott’s historic Whiskey Row or turn the corner for traditional jazz, spicy funk, or classic rock. From morning ‘til midnight with dozens of interesting and fun things to do, Downtown Prescott offers a rewarding, enriching cultural experience.

 The Yavapai County Courthouse in the heart of downtowns a Neo-Classic Revival built-in 1916. The granite structure is surrounded by garden-like grounds and large-scale public bronze sculptures reflecting the Midwestern and New England background of Prescott’s early settlers. Perhaps the most famous of Prescott’s impressive collection of large-scale bronzes is the one of William Owen “Bucky” O’Neill. Dedicated to the “Roughriders” of the Spanish-American War, this amazing bronze sculpture is located on the Yavapai County Courthouse Grounds. The first “Roughrider” to enlist in Arizona Territory was William O.“Bucky” O’Neill who arrived in Prescott in 1881.

He started his political career as probate judge, then became Sheriff of Yavapai County, and finally was elected Mayor of Prescott. O’Neill later resigned as mayor and formed a cavalry regiment of Arizona men. He was promoted to captain on May 4, 1895, and along with 210 men left for San Antonio, Texas. There he was given command of Troop ‘A’, part of the First United States Volunteer Cavalry. Theodore Roosevelt referred to themes as “a regiment of roughriding men”. From then on the regiment which O'Neill joined was called“Roosevelt’s Rough Riders".Unfortunately, O’Neill was fatally wounded in battle at San Juan Hill on July 2, 1898. The bronze statue of Bucky O'Neill was sculpted by Solon Borglum and dedicated at the Courthouse Plaza in 1907.

The Courthouse Plaza is the gathering place of the community for festivals and events such as “The Fourth of July Parade” and Territorial Days. Live theater, arts and crafts shows, concerts, and other events occur year-round at the Courthouse Plaza which has become a valued tradition and source of entertainment for Prescott residents as well as visitors.

The former Sacred Heart Catholic Church building is a fine example of a late Gothic brick structure. It was the culmination of efforts by French-born Rev. F. Albert Quetu who arrived in Prescott in 1889 and served here until 1908. The 108-year-old structure is considered by many to be one of the best examples of 19th Century religious architecture in Arizona. The former church building is now

occupied by Prescott’s Fine Arts Association

Prescott’s Grand Hotel,“The Hassayampa Inn” is another great example of the charming buildings of Arizona’’s earlier days. The Spanish Colonial Revivalism one block east of the picturesque Courthouse Plaza on Gurley Street. The stately hotel open doors in 1927,and has retained its western elegance with embossed copper panels and warm hued plaster embellished with colorful scrollwork and

giant brass chandeliers. The name Hassayampa is an Native expression for 'River that flows upside down.’The Hassayampa River characteristically sinks beneath surface at intervals only to re-appear at some distant place. This ‘river of enchantment’ became the inspiration for the name of an equally enchanting hotel.This downtown central core along with the surrounding area of historic residential homes is what gives Prescott its wonderful nostalgic ambiance. The preservation zeal of the community is a continuing project to preserve the colorful history that Prescott was founded on. Within Prescott, there are located many homes and business buildings listed in the National Register of Historic Places.