People

The Chiricahua Mountains have a diverse human history. Discover the lives of people who lived here over thousands of years.

 
Chiricahua Apache Before 1861
Hand-tinted photograph of wikiup, with adults and children standing outside or sitting inside.
The Chiricahua Apache lived in the Southwest for hundreds of years and clashed with Mexican and American governments.
 
 
Early Pioneers of Bonita Canyon
Old wooden fence in field with grass, bordered by trees, and a rocky hill in the background.
Discover the modern settlers of Bonita Canyon.
The Stafford Family
Log cabin in grassy field in front of large rocky hill.
The Stafford family homesteaded Bonita Canyon from 1880 to 1918.
Roster of Individual Soldiers
Old pair of brown, tall riding boots against a gray background.
Uncover the lives of soldiers who were stationed in Bonita Canyon in 1885-1886 during the Geronimo Campaign.
History of the 10th Cavalry
Mounted Buffalo Soldiers (10th Cavalry, Troop M) charging.
Learn about African American soldiers (Buffalo Soldiers) in the 10th Cavalry.
Emma Erickson
Black and white portrait of man and woman
Emma Peterson, a young Swedish immigrant, made southern Arizona her home.
Neil Erickson
Man on horseback in front of rock formations
Neil Erickson was the first US Forest Service ranger in the Chiricahua Mountains.
Lillian Erickson Riggs
Black and white portrait of woman with horse and dog standing in front of a large house.
Lillian ran Faraway Ranch for decades and advocated to protect this Wonderland of Rocks.
Ed Riggs
Man and old fashioned car.
Ed Riggs was important in developing Faraway Ranch and the trail systems in the Wonderland of Rocks.
 

Last updated: October 17, 2026

Contact Info

Mailing Address:

12856 E Rhyolite Creek Rd
Willcox, AZ 85643

Phone:

520 824-3560
The visitor center phone is staffed from 8:30 am to 4:30 pm daily. If we don't answer we may be helping others. Please leave a message with your phone number. We do not have caller ID. If calling while driving nearby, please pull over as cell reception will likely cut out.

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