The Arizona History Museum, as the name suggests, is a place to learn about Arizona’s complex history which stems from Mexican and Native American roots. Located right next to University of Arizona’s campus on 949 E 2nd Street, Tucson, this establishment includes intriguing exhibits such as a hands-on recreation of 1870’s Tucson and a simulation of a mining tunnel which visitors can walk through. The building itself is of historical significance, as it was designed by Swiss American, Tucson architect: Josias Joesler.
The museum has four permanent exhibits. The Transportation Gallery displays various past methods of travel in Tucson such as horse carriage, train, and automobile. The Treasures of the Arizona History Museum exhibit displays special objects such as Spanish Colonial silver, Empress Carlotta’s jewelry, and famous firearms. The History Labs exhibit is a place for community historians to share stories and educate. Some speakers are “Tucson’s Black History,” by Zee and Bernard Wilson, “Mine Workers of Bisbee”, and “Apache Indian History in the Southwest”. The Mining Hall Exhibit displays a two-story tall stamp mill, a repair shop, and a miner’s tent.
The museum also hosts special lectures and events. Due to the ongoing pandemic these events are currently virtual. However, visitors may still attend the exhibits while wearing a mask and physical distancing. (As of February 27th, 2021.) The Arizona History Museum is one of the four museums that the Arizona Historical Society runs. The Arizona Historical Society’s mission is to connect people through the power of Arizona’s history.
https://arizonahistoricalsociety.org/museum/arizona-history-museum/#programs
