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Prescott, Arizona

Arizona's original territorial capital, Prescott sits at a mile-high elevation in the cool pine forests of the Bradshaw Mountains — a world apart from the desert cities below. Its famous Whiskey Row saloon district, the world's oldest rodeo (since 1888), and the iconic Yavapai County Courthouse plaza define this Western heritage city.

Founded 1864 | Population 48,168 | Peak 48,168 (2024) | County Yavapai County

Top 10 Most Important Events for Prescott, Arizona

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1864Territorial Capital: Prescott became the capital of the new Arizona Territory, chosen for its Union sympathies and gold deposits.

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1888World's Oldest Rodeo: Prescott hosted what is recognized as the world's oldest rodeo, still held annually on July Fourth.

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1900Whiskey Row Fire: A devastating fire destroyed much of Whiskey Row, the famous block of saloons. Legend says patrons saved the ornate Brunswick bar by carrying it across the plaza.

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1927Phippen Museum: Prescott's Western art heritage grew, eventually leading to the Phippen Museum celebrating Western art and culture.

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2013Yarnell Hill Fire: The Yarnell Hill wildfire killed 19 members of the elite Granite Mountain Hotshots, the deadliest U.S. firefighter loss since 9/11.

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Complete Historical Timeline

1864 Government

Territorial Capital

1888 Culture

World's Oldest Rodeo

1900 Disaster

Whiskey Row Fire

1927 Culture

Phippen Museum

2013 Disaster

Yarnell Hill Fire

Did You Know?

First territorial capital of Arizona (1864).

19 Granite Mountain Hotshots died fighting the Yarnell Hill Fire in 2013.

Pronounced 'PRESS-kit,' not 'Pre-SCOTT.'.

Prescott is located in Yavapai County, Arizona.

Prescott has a population of approximately 48,168.

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