Show Low Historical Museum | Show Low

The Show Low Historical Museum is a cornerstone institution dedicated to preserving and celebrating the rich heritage of Show Low and the surrounding White Mountains region in Arizona. Located at 561 East Deuce of Clubs Street, the museum operates under the stewardship of the Show Low Historical Society, a nonprofit organization formed to collect, safeguard, and interpret the local history for residents and visitors alike.

Museum Setting and History

The museum occupies two interconnected buildings that collectively offer around 6,000 square feet of exhibit space divided among 17 themed rooms. The west building, originally built in the early 1960s as a sporting goods store, was later repurposed by the City of Show Low during the 1970s for municipal offices, including the police department and a jail. This building was acquired by the Show Low Historical Society in 1993 to serve as the museum’s primary facility. To accommodate growing collections and programs, the adjacent east building was added in 2007. This structure had formerly housed Navajo County’s Justice Courts and Planning and Zoning departments, adding substantial exhibit space and versatility to the museum.

Exhibits and Collections

The Show Low Historical Museum showcases a wide range of artifacts, documents, and displays that highlight the area's social, cultural, and economic development from pioneer times to the modern era.

Pioneer Woman Exhibit: This section pays tribute to the pioneering women of the region, emphasizing their resilience and essential roles in settlement and community-building. Visitors can view authentic handmade quilts, clothing items, household tools, and even birthing instruments that reflect daily life and survival challenges faced by these women.

Post Office Room: Chronicling the history of the postal service in Show Low, this exhibit documents the evolution of mail delivery and communication from the 1870s onward. Showcased here are artifacts from the town’s 18 different post office locations, including the establishment of the first official U.S. Post Office in 1912, underscoring the growth of civic infrastructure.

Blacksmith Shop: This display offers a glimpse into the indispensable craft of blacksmithing as practiced by the Matkin family, local blacksmiths and land surveyors. The tools, anvils, and equipment on display reflect the essential role blacksmiths played in maintaining farming equipment, horseshoes, and contributing to early infrastructure projects.

Silver Creek Railroad Club Exhibit: A highlight for enthusiasts of regional rail history, this exhibit features “The Last Train to Maverick,” a detailed model railroad setup that illustrates the importance of railroads in the development of Show Low and its mining communities.

Additional exhibits include a restored 1910 schoolhouse that immerses visitors in the early educational environment of the area, a faithful replica of the original Show Low train station, and dedicated spaces celebrating local Native American cultures and the logging industry, both central to the region’s historical economy.

Visitor Experience

The museum is open to the public Wednesday through Saturday from 10:00 AM to 3:00 PM. Admission is free, although donations are encouraged to help support the museum’s ongoing preservation efforts and community programs. The museum staff and volunteers are knowledgeable and often provide guided tours or answer questions, enriching the visitor experience with detailed stories and historical context.

Community and Cultural Role

Beyond its role as a repository of artifacts, the Show Low Historical Museum functions as a vibrant community hub. It hosts various educational programs, cultural events, and exhibitions that engage both locals and tourists. A notable example of community collaboration is the mural painted on the museum’s exterior by local artist Steve Taylor. The artwork vividly depicts key industries in the region’s history, such as cattle ranching, lumber milling, and the railroad, visually linking the museum’s mission to the town’s heritage.

Nearby Attractions and Historical Context

Visitors to the museum often combine their visit with other local historical points of interest. One iconic landmark is the “Card Player” statue, which commemorates the legendary poker game believed to have given Show Low its name. The museum's location within the town center makes it easily accessible for exploring the broader historical and cultural fabric of Show Low.

Summary

The Show Low Historical Museum provides an in-depth and authentic window into the White Mountains’ past. Its well-curated exhibits, rich collections, and active community involvement make it an essential destination for anyone interested in understanding the unique stories and developments that shaped this part of Arizona. The museum’s blend of preserved artifacts, engaging displays, and educational programs ensures that the history of Show Low remains vibrant and accessible to present and future generations.