Trains, Anyone?

Imagine riding a train into the town of Jerome. If you have visited Jerome, you'd think that's crazy. Well, a century ago, you could have done exactly that! Several different railroad companies provided service in the Verde Valley ... all of them in support of the copper mining industry centered on Jerome.

The Clemenceau Museum (clemenceaumuseum.com), which lies in Cottonwood, has a wonderful diorama, incorporating several running trains, that reflect the towns of Cottonwood, Clarkdale and Jerome and the mining/smelting operations that were based upon the rich copper ore of Jerome. Come for a visit!

Verde Valley Railroads Diorama: View of Jerome & Clarkdale

Diorama detail, depicting the Hopewell settlement where ore was transferred among trains. The Douglas Mansion sits above at left.

Detail of Clarkdale Smelter Operations

Diorama detail of Cottonwood's Old Town

Wedding at St. Cecelia's Catholic Church, Clarkdale

Visit the Clemenceau Museum and learn about the railroads that supported the copper mines and smelters of the Verde Valley!