Gila County, Arizona is located in the south-central part of the state. It is bordered by Yavapai County to the north, Maricopa County to the west and Pinal County to the south and east. The county covers an area of 4,795 square miles and is home to a population of over 53,000 people.
Gila County encompasses a diverse landscape ranging from high desert plains in the southern part of the county to rugged mountains in the north. The Mogollon Rim forms a natural boundary between Gila and Coconino Counties in northern Arizona while in southern Gila County lies the Sonoran Desert which stretches from California into Mexico.
The county is also home to several rivers including Tonto Creek, Salt River, Verde River and San Francisco River. These rivers provide irrigation for agricultural lands as well as recreational opportunities such as fishing and whitewater rafting. Additionally, Gila County contains several lakes including Roosevelt Lake which was created by Theodore Roosevelt Dam on the Salt River in 1911.
Within Gila County lies several mountain ranges including Mazatzal Mountains, Sierra Ancha Mountains and Tonto National Forest which make up parts of both Coconino and Maricopa Counties. These mountains are popular destinations for outdoor activities such as hiking, camping and rock climbing as well as providing stunning views of Arizona’s landscape.
Overall, Gila County has a diverse geography with something for everyone – from high desert plains to rugged mountains; from rivers for fishing or rafting to lakes for swimming; from rolling hillsides covered with saguaro cactus to lush forests full of wildlife; this county has it all.
Country Seat and Other Main Cities of Gila County, Arizona
Gila County is located in the south-central part of Arizona, and its county seat is Globe. This city was founded in 1876 and was originally called “The Globe” due to its location on a hilltop surrounded by hills, but later the name was shortened to just Globe. The city has a population of about 8,500 people and serves as the county seat for Gila County.
According to countryaah.com, Gila County also includes other cities such as Payson, which is located in northern Gila County. This small town has a population of about 15,000 and is known for its many outdoor activities such as fishing, camping, hiking and golfing. It also serves as a gateway to the nearby Tonto National Forest.
The city of Miami is located in southeastern Gila County and has a population of about 2,400. It was founded in 1885 and served as an important mining center during the early 20th century with many copper mines still operating in the area today. Miami also offers access to several recreational areas including Apache Lake which provides opportunities for fishing, boating and swimming.
Claypool is another small city located within Gila County with a population of around 1,500 people. It was founded in 1881 by Harvey Claypool who named it after himself. Claypool is home to several historic sites including an old schoolhouse that dates back to 1917 and an old jailhouse from 1895 which now serves as a museum displaying artifacts from throughout Gila County’s history.
Lastly, Hayden is located in central Gila County with a population of around 1,200 people. It was founded in 1904 by Henry Hayden who named it after himself and Today, it serves as an important transportation hub due to its location at the intersection of two major highways – US Highway 60 and Arizona State Route 77 – that go through this part of Arizona.
Overall, Gila County has several cities that each offer something unique whether it be outdoor activities or access to historic sites; there’s something for everyone.
History of Gila County, Arizona
Gila County, located in south-central Arizona, is one of the four original counties that were created in 1881 when Arizona became a territory. The county was named after the Gila River which flows through it and is home to a number of cities including Globe, Payson, Miami, Claypool and Hayden.
The first settlers to come to Gila County were miners who were looking for gold and silver in the late 1800s. The first mine established was the Silver King Mine near Globe in 1876 which soon led to a boom in population for the area. Mining also helped develop other towns such as Payson and Miami which were both established around this time.
In addition to mining, agriculture became an important industry for Gila County during this period with many farms being established throughout the area. This led to an increase in population as well as economic growth for the county.
The early 20th century saw a decline in mining but an increase in tourism due to its natural beauty and recreational opportunities such as fishing, camping, hiking and golfing. This helped give rise to several small towns like Claypool which was founded by Harvey Claypool who named it after himself; and Hayden which was founded by Henry Hayden who also named it after himself.
Today Gila County is home to about 53,000 people with Globe serving as its county seat; Payson being its largest city with a population of about 15,000; and Miami being its oldest city having been founded in 1885. It is also known for its many outdoor activities that can be enjoyed year round due to its warm climate; while at the same time providing access to historic sites such as old schoolhouses and jailhouses from throughout Gila County’s history.
Economy of Gila County, Arizona
Gila County, located in south-central Arizona, has a diverse economy that includes mining, agriculture, tourism and manufacturing. The county is home to several mineral deposits including copper, gold and silver which have been mined since the late 19th century. This has helped create jobs in the area as well as boost the local economy.
Agriculture is another major contributor to Gila County’s economy with many farms being established throughout the area since the late 1800s. This has helped provide jobs to many local residents while also providing food for both residents and visitors alike.
Tourism is another big part of Gila County’s economy with its warm climate and numerous outdoor activities such as fishing, camping, hiking and golfing helping to attract visitors from around the world each year. Additionally, there are numerous historic sites throughout Gila County that can be visited such as old schoolhouses and jailhouses from throughout its history which helps draw in even more tourists each year.
Manufacturing is also a key component of Gila County’s economy with several plants located throughout the area producing everything from automotive parts to electronics to food products. These plants help create jobs for local residents while also providing products for both domestic and international markets.
Overall, Gila County has a strong and diverse economy that provides jobs for its residents while also making it an attractive destination for tourists from around the world. With its mineral deposits, agricultural production, tourism opportunities and manufacturing industry all working together to make it a great place to live or visit; it’s easy to see why Gila County continues to be an economic powerhouse in Arizona.