There goes the Neighborhood: The Jerome mines and their impact on the Verde River
Jerome State Historic Park
Friday, October 2, 2026 1 p.m.
The presentation will include a brief history of the Verde River, the establishment of the mines at Jerome, the geology of the ores, and the social and environmental impacts of the smelters once they were located on the valley floor.
About our Speaker
Steve Ayers is a retired journalist who spent over a decade writing about the Verde River, its environmental challenges, local agriculture, history, politics, and the economy. He is the author of two books, including the first-ever history of the Verde River, The River of the Kings. Steve lives in Camp Verde with his wife Susan, two rescue cats, and their circumspect yellow lab, Noodles.
Cash or checks accepted by the author for book purchase.
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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August 3 - October 12, 2026
Flash Fright Night Tours - Open Call!
Flash Fright Night Tour Open Call for Ghosts, Guides and Otherworldly Historic Roles
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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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August 20, 2026
Plein Air Artists
Artists of all skill levels are invited to paint plein air (painting outdoors) around the grounds of Jerome State Historic Park
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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.
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August 22
Living History Day at Jerome State Historic Park
Take a step back in time and see what life was like in a mining camp, learn about women's fashion, enjoy magic tricks and much, much more.
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Saturday, August 29, 2026
Before Jerome: Early People of the Verde Valley
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.
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Saturday, August 29, 2026
Bat Walk at Jerome State Historic Park
Learn about the bats that fly about Jerome, emerging from the caves and old mine shafts of the Black Hills. Registration is required.
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Tuesdays and Fridays
The Inside History of Jerome
An engaging and exclusive presentation of the town of Jerome, as told by long-time local, Henry Vincent, in an outdoor setting.
