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Wikieup, Arizona is a small unincorporated community located in Mohave County. Despite being a relatively tiny settlement, Wikieup holds a rich history, with several significant events having taken place in or around the area over the years. Here are seven historical events that have occurred near Wikieup, AZ.
1. The Battle of Date Creek
On March 17th, 1864, a group of Apache Indians attacked a wagon train traveling from La Paz to Fort Whipple. The settlers had stopped to camp at the foot of Date Creek Canyon, near present-day Wikieup when they were ambushed. The attackers killed nine men and kidnapped two women. A volunteer militia from Fort Whipple pursued the Indians, culminating in a battle on March 22nd, which resulted in the rescue of the two captive women.
2. The Santa Fe Railroad
The Santa Fe Railroad ran through Wikieup, AZ, providing transportation for people and goods throughout much of the western United States. It was completed in 1881, and its impact on the settlement was significant. Wikieup quickly grew as a result of its convenient location along the railway.
3. The Gold Rush of 1902
In 1902, gold was discovered in the nearby Rawhide Mountains. The rush that ensued attracted prospectors from far and wide, leading to the founding of several mining settlements, including the towns of Oatman and Goldroad. The influx of people meant prosperity for the region as a whole, and Wikieup saw an increase in business and trade.
4. The Hualapai Tribe
The area surrounding Wikieup has long been home to the Hualapai Tribe. Historically, the Hualapai people were hunters and gatherers who lived off the land. Their cultural presence has been significant, with nearby attractions such as the Grand Canyon Skywalk providing visitors with an opportunity to engage with the tribe's history and culture.
5. Route 66
Route 66 ran through Wikieup, and the town was a popular stop for travelers along the historic road. The route was established in 1926, and it's noteworthy that Wikieup has always been a vital part of its history. The town's location at the juncture of Route 66 and highways 93 and 95 made it a transportation hub for many years.
6. The Housing Boom of the 1950s and 60s
In the 1950s and 60s, the United States experienced a housing boom, and Wikieup was no exception. The construction of new homes, businesses, and facilities attracted many families to the area. As the town grew, so did its economy, with a thriving agricultural industry developing.
7. The Mohave County Fair
The Mohave County Fair has been held in Kingman, just 50 miles north of Wikieup, since 1948. It is a popular event that celebrates the region's agricultural heritage and the local community's achievements. Each year, the fair attracts many people from all over the state and beyond.
In conclusion, Wikieup, AZ, may be small, but its history is rich and varied. From battles and mining rushes to railways and a housing boom, the town has seen a lot over the years. There is much to discover and explore for those willing to dig a little deeper into the area's past.
7 Pieces Of History Near Wikieup, AZ
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