Arizona’s Last Gold Rush
Located in southeastern Arizona’s Sulphur Springs Valley, Pearce is a historic gold-mining town that serves as the northern anchor of the famous Ghost Town Trail. Once a booming settlement with over 1,500 residents, it is now a quiet community where preserved ruins and active small businesses coexist.
Pearce was founded in 1894 after James Pearce, a local rancher and former miner, discovered gold on his property. This discovery led to the establishment of the Commonwealth Mine, which became one of Arizona’s most productive silver and gold producers. By 1919, the town boasted a railroad station, schools, hotels, and even a movie theater. However, the town declined during the Great Depression, and the mine closed permanently in the late 1940s.
Built in 1915, the Historic Pearce Jail is now owned by the Old Pearce Preservation Association. It is open to the public on the first Saturday of each month from October through May. The Old Pearce General Store is an adobe building from 1894 listed on the National Register of Historic Places. While it is occasionally open for events or specific business hours, it remains one of the town’s most prominent landmarks.
Pearce is located off U.S. Route 191, about 30 miles south of Willcox. It is adjacent to the modern community of Sunsites. From Pearce, you can drive south along the Ghost Town Trail (paved for the first section, then gravel) to visit the nearby ruins of Courtland and Gleeson. Combine your visit with a stop at Cochise Stronghold for hiking or explore the growing wine country in the surrounding valley.
Located about a mile outside the town center, the Pearce Cemetery is a “must-see” for history buffs, containing graves of early pioneers and miners.
Unlike completely abandoned sites, Pearce still has a small population. Be respectful of private property and marked “No Trespassing” signs around the ruins.
Planning Your Trip:
- Location: Situated in the Sulphur Springs Valley, about 28 miles south of Willcox. It is easily accessible via Route 191 and Ghost Town Trail.
- Road Conditions: Most of the town is accessible via standard passenger vehicles, but the Ghost Town Trail (connecting Pearce to Courtland and Gleeson) is a dirt road that can become rough after heavy rain.
- No Services: Pearce has very limited modern amenities. There are no gas stations or large grocery stores; fill up your tank in Willcox or Sunizona before arriving.
- Sun Protection: There is very little shade among the ruins. Bring water and wear a hat.
- Rattlesnakes: This is active desert terrain. Stick to established paths and avoid reaching into crevices or tall grass near old foundations.
- Website: historicpearce.com