Globe | USA Arizona

Globe, Arizona – Detailed Overview

Globe is a small yet historically rich city located in Gila County, in central-eastern Arizona. Nestled in the foothills of the Pinal Mountains, Globe sits at an elevation of approximately 3,500 feet (1,067 meters). It offers a blend of rugged terrain, mining heritage, and Southwestern charm, with a close-knit community and a landscape shaped by copper and silver mining.

1. Geographic Location and Setting

Globe is located along U.S. Route 60 and Arizona State Route 77, about:

90 miles east of Phoenix

75 miles north of Tucson

25 miles west of San Carlos Apache Indian Reservation

The city is surrounded by desert hills, rocky outcrops, and wooded mountain slopes, creating a dramatic natural environment. The nearby Pinal Mountains rise to over 7,800 feet, offering cool forests and outdoor recreation opportunities.

2. Historical Background

Founded in the 1870s, Globe owes its existence to the discovery of silver, followed shortly by large-scale copper mining. The name "Globe" reportedly came from a round, globe-shaped nugget of silver found in the area.

By the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Globe had become a booming mining town, drawing settlers, prospectors, and businesses from across the country. The city developed a diverse population, including Mexican, Native American, and European immigrant communities, many of whom worked in the mines or associated industries.

Globe’s prosperity was tightly linked to the Old Dominion Copper Mine, one of the richest in the nation at its peak. Though the mine closed in the 1930s, Globe remained a vital copper processing and governmental hub for the surrounding region.

3. Climate

Globe features a semi-arid climate, with characteristics of both desert and mountain weather:

Summers are hot but not as extreme as the lower desert cities; average highs range from the upper 80s to mid-90s °F (31–36 °C).

Winters are mild and short, with daytime highs in the 50s–60s °F (10–18 °C) and cool nights.

Monsoon season brings summer thunderstorms, typically between July and September.

Snow is rare, but nearby mountain areas may receive some snowfall in winter.

4. Demographics and Community

Globe has a population of around 7,000 people. It serves as the county seat of Gila County and functions as the administrative, commercial, and cultural center for the region.

The community is known for its:

Strong mining heritage

Mixed cultural influences, including Native American (especially San Carlos Apache), Hispanic, and Anglo-American

Historic preservation efforts, particularly in the downtown district

Many residents are connected through generational ties to the mining industry and the region's development.

5. Economy

Mining still plays a role in the regional economy, though much reduced from its historic highs. Today, the economy is based on:

Copper mining and smelting, especially through nearby facilities like the Miami Copper Smelter

Government services, including county administration and public safety

Tourism, especially heritage and outdoor tourism

Retail and education, with several schools and community colleges serving the area

Globe is also a support center for residents of the San Carlos Apache Reservation, whose economy includes tribal enterprises and tourism.

6. Architecture and Historic District

One of Globe’s defining features is its historic downtown, characterized by early 20th-century buildings that reflect a blend of architectural styles:

Victorian, Mission Revival, and Territorial

The Gila County Courthouse (1906) and Old Dominion Library are prominent landmarks

Numerous antique shops, galleries, and cafes occupy preserved buildings

The Globe Downtown Historic District is listed on the National Register of Historic Places

Cultural and architectural preservation is a point of pride among locals, and many buildings still function as they did over a century ago.

7. Attractions and Recreation

Historic & Cultural Sites:

Besh-Ba-Gowah Archaeological Park: An ancient Salado culture pueblo ruin dating back to 1225–1400 AD, offering a museum, reconstructed rooms, and interpretive trails.

Cobre Valley Center for the Arts: Housed in the old courthouse, it features exhibits, live performances, and art galleries.

Holy Angels Church: A striking mission-style Catholic church built in the early 1900s.

Outdoor Recreation:

Pinal Mountains: Hiking, camping, and wildlife viewing in cool pine and fir forests.

Round Mountain Park: Located within the city limits, it offers scenic hiking trails and overlooks.

Salt River Canyon Scenic Drive: A breathtaking mountain road just east of Globe, often called “Arizona’s mini-Grand Canyon.”

8. Culture and Events

Globe hosts a range of community-oriented events reflecting its heritage and local pride:

Copper Dust Stampede Rodeo: Annual event celebrating the area's Western roots.

Apache Jii Day: A cultural festival featuring Native American crafts, dancing, and food, held in collaboration with the San Carlos Apache Tribe.

Globe Historic Home Tour: An annual event showcasing preserved homes from the mining boom era.

9. Education and Infrastructure

Globe is served by the Globe Unified School District, with elementary, middle, and high schools. There is also a campus of Gila Community College, offering vocational and continuing education.

Healthcare services are provided by Cobre Valley Regional Medical Center, and various clinics support both the town and the reservation.

Transportation includes:

Highway access via U.S. Route 60 and State Route 77

Nearby small airports for private aviation

Bus routes connecting Globe with Phoenix and eastern Arizona towns

10. Living in Globe

Globe appeals to individuals and families seeking:

A quiet, small-town lifestyle

Affordable housing and lower cost of living compared to metro Phoenix or Tucson

Proximity to nature and opportunities for hiking, hunting, and photography

A deep sense of local identity and historical continuity

The town balances its past with small but steady modernization efforts, and its residents often express a strong connection to local traditions, land, and community.

Summary

Globe, Arizona is a place where history, culture, and nature intersect. With its rich mining legacy, preserved architecture, and location among scenic mountain landscapes, Globe offers a slower-paced, heritage-rich alternative to Arizona’s larger cities. It’s a hub for regional history, Native American culture, and outdoor exploration - all embedded in the fabric of a resilient and culturally vibrant community.