Before Jerome: Early People of the Verde Valley
Jerome State Historic Park
Saturday, August 29, 2026 11 a.m. - 12 p.m.
A fast-paced, sometimes humorous overview of the history of people in the Middle Verde Valley, from the earliest Paleoindians until the town of Jerome was incorporated in 1899.
Designed with the casually curious in mind, this presentation will sweep you through more than 12,000 years of local human history.
About our Speaker: David Craig
Since retiring to Arizona with his wife in 2026, David Craig has found himself helplessly lost in local archaeology, geology, biology, paleontology, and any other “-ologies” that come his way.
MORE EVENTS
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Fridays in July and August
Historical Walking Tours
Join volunteer Hal Hatfield on a historical walking tour of Jerome State Historic Park: July 17, 24 and 31 and August 7, 21 and 28
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Sundays
Geology Tour and Presentation
Learn how powerful geological forces shaped the Verde Valley and laid the foundation for Jerome's rugged landscape and rich mining history. Perfect for history lovers, rock hounds and curious minds of all ages!
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Saturday, August 22, 2026
The Jordan Family: The Women, the Land, and the Verde Valley
The presentation explores the resilience, perseverance, and sense of adventure of generations of Jordan women and their experiences as part of Arizona’s early history.
