Motorcycle Rides USA

WILD WEST TRIP - Bisbee, Arizona

I really enjoyed Bisbee. The Crown Mine tour was amazing. I also met some new friends Mike and Kristie Andrus from Texas. They are just some good, fine folks, salt of the earth.

Here is the history of Bisbee:

Bisbee, Arizona, nestled in the Mule Mountains, is a town steeped in history. Established in 1880, it was among the richest mineral sites in the world, producing nearly three million ounces of gold and more than eight billion pounds of copper, not to mention the silver, lead, and zinc that also came from its mines.

The town's mining heritage is evident in its Victorian structures and stately mansions, once home to mining magnates. Bisbee's charming streets and architecture drew Hollywood's attention, and it became the backdrop for several classic Western films.

One of the most notable films shot in Bisbee is the 1955 production "Violent Saturday." The movie, directed by Richard Fleischer, used Bisbee's iconic Brewery Gulch and the Copper Queen Hotel as primary filming locations. The film's storyline revolves around a bank robbery that happens in a small mining town, mirroring Bisbee's own history of mining and the wild west.

Another film, "Midnight Run," released in 1988, also features scenes shot in Bisbee. Although a modern film, it still captures the old western charm inherent to Bisbee. The protagonist, played by Robert De Niro, travels across the country and finds himself in Bisbee, adding a touch of modern intrigue to the classic western backdrop.

Bisbee's history and its role in classic cinema extend beyond these two films. The town's unique blend of old and new, history and modernity, has continued to attract filmmakers and tourists alike. Today, Bisbee is more than just a former mining town. It's a destination for those seeking to experience a slice of the Old West, whether through the lens of a camera or the eyes of a tourist.

So, whether you're a fan of classic Westerns, a history enthusiast, or simply someone looking for a unique travel experience, Bisbee, AZ, with its rich history and Hollywood connections, is a place worth visiting.

WILD WEST TRIP - Tombstone, Arizona

After arriving at Tombstone, which is close to the Mexican border, I got a camping site at the Tombstone RV Park, and met Blaine and Patrice, originally from Fresno. They sold everything and travel across the country in their 5th wheel. After setting up camp, I sat in my camp chair for a beautiful Arizona sunset.

Here’s the history on Tombstone:

Tombstone, Arizona, is an iconic location in Old West history. Founded in 1879 during the silver boom, the town quickly gained notoriety for its lawlessness and violence.

The most infamous event in Tombstone's history is the legendary Gunfight at the O.K. Corral. This 30-second shootout between lawmen and a group of outlaws known as the Cowboys took place on October 26, 1881. The event has been depicted in numerous films and books, marking Tombstone as a symbol of the Old West's lawlessness.

Tombstone's rich history has made it a popular backdrop for Hollywood. The town has been featured in many films, most notably the 1957 movie "Gunfight at the O.K. Corral" and the 1993 film "Tombstone." These films have contributed to the town's continued popularity, drawing fans of Westerns from around the world.

While the real-life Tombstone might not be as lawless as it was in the 1880s, the town has managed to keep its Old West charm. Visitors today can walk the same streets that Wyatt Earp and Doc Holliday once did, savoring the history and legends of one of America's most famous frontier towns.