"~Benson~" Benson by Yaqui

Benson Travel Guide: 46 reviews and 94 photos

"The Hub City"

When Father Kino pass through here in 1692 and when Spanish explorers pass through here as early as 1539, a tribe of Sobaipuri Native Americans were the first settlers here in the San Pedro Valley for many centuries. Sadly even though the Spanish brought cattle and seeds to grow crops such as corn, wheat, barley and grapes. The Sobaipuri people died from the white epidemics and warfare. Soon they abondoned their homes to move Santa Cruz Valley to be closer to San Xavier Mission. Soon the Spanish followed to create presido's since they were at threat of Apache attacks. By 1828, most of the villages were abandon.

Benson may appears to be just one of those pass through towns on the way to Tombstone. Benson is rich in history and character too. It was established when the Southern Pacific Railroad laid its tracks along here and a stage line/shipping dock was established since Tombstone was becoming a booming town. A postoffice was established in July of 1880 and named after Judge William S. Benson, a friend of Charles Crockers, then President of SPR.

Before that, there was a fortified stage (Butterfield Trail) depot established in 1850's one north of here. In 1871-78, William Ohnesorgen established a new depot and supply route. Thus the beginning of Benson.

Pros and Cons

In a nutshell:~Steep in history here~

Last visit to Benson: Dec 2010
Intro Updated Sep 16, 2011
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Reviews (4)

Benson's Historical District~Walking Tour - Benson

Benson's Historical District~Walking... Things to Do (4)

Benson's Chamber of Commerce web site you will find access to maps of Benson and a self Walking Tour. I so enjoy this... more travel advice

Veterans Memorial Things to Do (4)

It reads: "In honor and memory of our men and women in our armed forces who rendered service to our country during... more travel advice

Benson's Murals Things to Do (4)

As you already know, I really enjoy murals and will not hesitate to stop and get a photograph of one. Benson has many... more travel advice

Benson's Visitor Center Things to Do (4)

Although this is just a replica of the train depot that once stood here, it was the beginning of the countries dream of... more travel advice

Comments (5)

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balhannah Jul 7, 2012 at 2:54 AM

Wonderful Mural!
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MD2nd Nov 8, 2011 at 4:43 AM

The Saddle Blankert mural really does look beautiful, and so does the one at the cafe's wall. Wonderful Benson page.
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LoriPori Oct 8, 2011 at 4:27 AM

Benson looks like my kinda little town. Love the murals and the Mercantile Store.
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deecat Sep 21, 2011 at 1:43 PM

What a sweet place, Dee. You and I would have a real "field day" with Murals,would we not? Great photographs.
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Basaic Sep 16, 2011 at 11:21 AM

Hey, you are in my neighborhood. Wish I was there so we could have a cup of coffee or something.