Dragoon Springs, Arizona facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Dragoon Springs
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Remains of the Dragoon Springs Stagecoach Station
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 Dragoon Springs
Location in Arizona
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| Country | United States |
| State | Arizona |
| County | Cochise County |
| Elevation | 4,925 ft (1,501 m) |
Dragoon Springs is a historic place in what is now Cochise County, Arizona. It's known as a "ghost town" because no one lives there anymore. The area is about 4,925 feet (1,501 meters) above sea level. This settlement got its name from a natural spring nearby. This spring, called Dragoon Spring, was a very important watering spot for travelers long ago. It is located in the Dragoon Mountains.
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What is Dragoon Springs?
Dragoon Springs was once an important stop in the desert. It was a vital place for people traveling across the American Southwest. The natural spring provided much-needed water for both people and animals. This made it a key location on old travel routes.
A Look Back: The History of Dragoon Springs
The area around Dragoon Springs has a long history. It was first part of Mexico. Then, in 1853, the United States bought this land. This event was known as the Gadsden Purchase. After this, the area became part of the New Mexico Territory.
Important Stop for Travelers
In November 1857, Dragoon Springs became a permanent settlement. It was first used as a stagecoach station. This was for the San Antonio–San Diego Mail Line. Stagecoaches were like big buses pulled by horses. They carried mail and passengers across the country.
From 1858 to 1861, another famous stagecoach company used Dragoon Springs. This was the Butterfield Overland Mail. It was one of the longest stagecoach routes in the world. Dragoon Springs was a crucial stop where travelers could rest and get fresh water.
Civil War Conflicts
During the American Civil War (1861-1865), Dragoon Springs saw some fighting. Two battles happened near the settlement. These were the First Battle of Dragoon Springs and the Second Battle of Dragoon Springs. These fights were between Apache warriors and Confederate soldiers. The battles were part of the larger conflicts happening in the American Southwest during the war.
What You Can Still See Today
Even though no one lives there now, you can still visit Dragoon Springs. You can see the remains of the old adobe buildings. Adobe is a type of brick made from earth and straw. There is also a cemetery at the site. These ruins and graves are a reminder of the people who once lived and traveled through this historic spot.
Images for kids
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Map for location of Dragoon Springs Stage Station.
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Station ruins with graves in the foreground.
