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- Country: Cochise County
- Population: 1,562 (2009 Census)
- State/Province: Arizona
- Founded: 1879
- Area Code: 85638
- Time Zone: MST
- Nickname: "The Town too Tough to Die"
- Average Climate: 63.5°F (17.5°C)
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General Information
Tombstone is a city located in Cochise County, Arizona. It was founded by Edward Schieffelin in 1879, and is most commonly known for it's old west history. Today, Tombstone relies on tourism through promotion of the town's history. -
History
Tombstone was founded by prospector Ed Schieffelin in the summer of 1877. Schieffelin had previously mentioned to a fellow prospector that he was going to try to strike a silver vein out in the desert area around what is now Tombstone. In response, the prospector said to him that "all you'll find out there is your Tombstone." When Schieffelin struck silver, he filed his mining claim as "The Tombstone."Soon, Tombstone grew significantly in size, becoming a major boom town. Tombstone flourished with a population of over 5000 by 1881, and included amenities not commonly found in areas like Tombstone, such as refrigeration (this provided for eventual ice skating and ice cream making), a full telegraph service, and even running water.
One of the keys to Tombstone's success was it's labor force, comprising mainly of immigrants from Ireland, Germany and China. This labor force allowed for Tombstone to have it's luxurious amenities.
But behind Tombstone's facade of luxury was a much wilder side. Tombstone lacked communication with the outside world due to the lack of a railway. As a result, gangs of men came together and wreaked havoc in the lawless town. Tombstone became one of the most dangerous places in the frontier, especially with the gang known as the "cowboys."
One of the things that Tombstone is most famous for is the gunfight at the OK Corral. This involved famous lawman Wyatt Earp, his brothers (Morgan and Virgil), and his friend Doc Holliday. The four had a showdown in a lumber yard near the OK Corral, resulting in numerous deaths. However, none of the Earp brothers- or Doc Holliday- died in the fight. However, all of them were injured except for Wyatt.
Tombstone later experienced a series of fires, mainly due to a lack of water and unprotected wooden construction. The town, however, recovered.
Today, Tombstone is a small town which takes great pride in it's history. It's a popular destination for old west enthusiasts and tourists alike, as the town has up-kept it's historic district, and most of it's citizens take enjoyment in dressing, and from a reenactment case, acting like people did in the late 19th Century. It's a fully-operating Old West town; the last of it's kind.
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Tombstone News
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Wild West motif lightens US mood at Afghan base
FORWARD OPERATING BASE TOMBSTONE, Afghanistan — Welcome to the OK Corral. Past the concrete slabs and guards in heavy combat gear, a wooden board at the ... (February 08, 2010)The Associated Press -
Tombstone High School honors educator, coach
By Dana Cole TOMBSTONE — Remembered as coach, teacher, principal and friend, Herman Fischer will always be part of Tombstone High School. ... (February 08, 2010)Sierra Vista Herald -
Crafton Hills College cuts impact student plans, class sizes
Just a few feet away from where Beitscher waited for her order, a faux tombstone proclaimed "Here lie the cut classes of Spring, 2010. Pay your respects. ... (February 09, 2010)Press-Enterprise -
Regularly scheduled meeting set for Wednesday
By Dana Cole HUACHUCA CITY — Tombstone Unified School District will be holding its regularly scheduled board meeting on Wednesday at 6 pm at the Huachuca ... (February 08, 2010)Sierra Vista Herald
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Mahalo Answers for Tombstone
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Who was involved in the gunfight at the OK Corral in Tombstone Arizona? 2 AnswersHi Billy Clanton and Frank & Tom McLaury ! The original funeral for Billy Clanton and Frank & Tom McLaury took place the on Oct. 27, 1881. They're all b... read more -
What occurred on December 2,1878 in Tombstone Arizona? 1 Answer"Tombstone's post office was established December 2, 1878 and has yet to be discontinued." read more -
What ore did the mines in Tombstone Arizona produce? 1 AnswerA rich silver ore, founded first by Edward Schieffelin. read more
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Tombstone Weather
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Current ConditionsTombstone, AZ as of Wed, 10 Feb 2010 2:56 am MST
Fair
40°F(4°C)Barometer: 29.87 falling Humidity: 60% Visibility: 10 mi Wind: E 3 mph Sunrise: 7:07 am Sunset: 6:04 pm -
Today's Forecast
ShowersHigh: 52°F (11°C)
Low: 39°F (3°C) -
Tomorrow's Forecast

Mostly SunnyHigh: 54°F (12°C)
Low: 37°F (2°C)
Full Forecast at Yahoo! Weather (provided by The Weather Channel) -





