Clark Dome Weather Station

Historical marker location:
1400 West Mars Hill Road, Flagstaff, Arizona
( Marker can be reached from West Mars Hill Road, 0.6 miles west of West Santa Fe Avenue.)

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The Grand Canyon was not always a national park: The Grand Canyon was first designated a national monument by President Theodore Roosevelt in 1908, and it was not until 1919 that it became a national park. Today, the Grand Canyon is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world.
Coconino County, located in northern Arizona, has a rich history that spans centuries. The area was originally inhabited by Native American tribes such as the Navajo, Hopi, and Havasupai, who relied on the natural resources and landscape for their livelihoods. The first Europeans to explore the county were Spanish explorers in the 16th century, followed by fur trappers and traders in the 1800s.

In 1851, Fort Whipple was established in what is now Coconino County, becoming an important outpost during the Indian Wars. The arrival of the Atlantic and Pacific Railroad in the 1880s led to the growth of settlements in the area, including Flagstaff, which became the county seat in 1891. The railroad brought opportunities for trade and tourism and played a crucial role in the county's development.

Coconino County is home to several significant landmarks. The Grand Canyon, located in the county's northern part, has been a natural wonder and a major tourist attraction since its discovery by European explorers. In the early 20th century, the construction of Route 66, a famed highway that stretched from Chicago to California, passed through Coconino County, bringing with it even more travelers and commerce.

Today, Coconino County continues to thrive as a diverse and vibrant region. It is recognized for its stunning natural beauty, including the Grand Canyon, as well as its ecological diversity, encompassing forests, plateaus, and deserts. The county also holds a strong cultural presence with a mix of Native American, Western, and Hispanic influences. Whether it's exploring the breathtaking landscapes or experiencing its rich heritage, Coconino County offers visitors a glimpse into the history and beauty of Arizona.

This timeline provides a glimpse into the major events and milestones that have shaped the history of Coconino County, Arizona.

  • 1871: Coconino County established and named after the Coconino Native American tribe.
  • 1878: Flagstaff becomes the county seat.
  • 1882: Grand Canyon National Park established.
  • 1895: First permanent settlement in Sedona.
  • 1901: Arizona State Normal School (now Northern Arizona University) founded in Flagstaff.
  • 1918: Lowell Observatory in Flagstaff discovers Pluto.
  • 1920: First all-weather road connects Flagstaff to Grand Canyon.
  • 1930s: Construction of Hoover Dam brings jobs to the region.
  • 1956: Glen Canyon Dam completed in Page, creating Lake Powell.
  • 2000: Coconino Community College opens in Flagstaff.