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History

Graham County’s early history was one of exploration rather than settlement. By 1870, a number of farming communities began to emerge along the Gila River, making agriculture the primary industry of the region— one that still remains a strong economic factor to this day.

The first to appear was Munsonville (current-day San Jose) in 1873, followed by Safford in 1874, Solomonville in 1876 and Smithville (today’s Pima) in 1879. The following decade welcomed the settlements of Thatcher, Eden, Central and Bryce.

Graham County was formed in 1881 by the 11th Territorial Legislature from sections of Apache County and Pima County. While Arizona counties were continually named after local Indian tribes, the Legislature decided to break the trend. Ultimately, the newly established county was given the name “Graham” after the towering Mt. Graham. The mountain received its moniker in honor of Lt. Col. James Duncan Graham, who served as senior officer in Brig. Gen. Stephen W. Kearney’s U.S. Army Corps of Topographical Engineers.

Safford became the first county seat of Graham County; but two years later, that designation moved to Solomonville. After an election in 1915, the county seat was moved back to Safford where it has remained to this day.

The county certainly takes pride in its rich history, welcoming visitors to learn more through such offerings as the historic walking and driving tour that features 36 historic structures, as well as several excellent museums.