The Graham County Historical Society has been a fixture of the Gila Valley since 1964. Since that time, volunteer members have worked to preserve and share the history of Graham County and southeastern Arizona. We’ve done this through public presentations, annual symposiums, field treks, publications, ongoing research, and, until recently, museum exhibits.

 

We’ve had museums in several locations over the years, including the historic Odd Fellows Home (now the City of Safford Annex). Most recently, our museum was located in the old Thatcher High School building (constructed in 1917), which has since been replaced by a new facility. Following that transition, we carefully packed and stored all of our artifacts and exhibit materials.

 

We are currently exploring plans for our next museum space. A 10,000-square-foot metal building, recently dismantled and moved to the Graham County Fairgrounds, is under consideration as a possible new location. We’ve begun writing grants for Phase II of the project, which may include architectural and engineering renderings. If the project moves forward, an estimated $200,000 would be needed to reconstruct the building, including site preparation, foundation work, a new roof and insulation, utility installation, and interior construction. Once these foundational steps are in place, we hope to begin designing and building new exhibits.

 

You can help support this effort by clicking the Join/Donate tab above. Financial contributions and memberships are tax-deductible, and volunteer time is always welcome and greatly appreciated.