Pipe Spring National Monument

History and old west enthusiasts will find pipe spring national monument to be a great destination for discovery. 

LOCATION: 

Utah/Arizona Border

ELEVATION:

4,900 feet

Info

Ancient History

Fort establishment

In 1866, a Mormon pioneer mission was established at Pipe Spring located in Northern Arizona. The mission provided a much-needed stop for travelers on their way to California and Utah who were in need of food and shelter. In 1870, the United States Army sent troops to protect the settlers from hostile Native American groups and built a fort at the site. The fort included a two-story stone house and several support buildings, including a blacksmith shop and stables. It was the only military outpost in this part of Arizona during the Indian Wars of the late 1800s. In 1923, Pipe Spring National Monument was established to preserve and protect this important piece of western history. Today, visitors can tour the fort, learn about its history, and explore the surrounding area. Pipe Spring National Monument is a great way to experience the spirit of the Old West. 

The fort at Pipe Spring National Monument preserves an important part of western history. Its walls have provided security for pioneers and travelers for over 150 years, surviving through wars and social changes. Visitors can explore the fort and its supporting buildings, learning about the history of the area and the unique experiences that this early settlement provided. Through visiting Pipe Spring National Monument, visitors can gain an appreciation for how life used to be in Arizona during the late 1800s and see first-hand what it was like to live in a historically significant fort. 

The fort was built right on top of the spring and was quickly given the nickname of Winsor Castle, after Anson Perry Winsor who was brought in to run the Pipe Spring fort and ranching operation. More improvements, such as outbuildings, fences and ponds were completed quickly.

Two societies

The Kaibab Paiute Tribe and Mormon settlers have engaged in mutual cooperation since their first interactions. The Mormons provided supplies and aid when resources were scarce for the Kaibab Paiute Tribe, while the Tribe provided guidance on how to best utilize the land and its resources. This mutual cooperation showed a deep respect for both cultures’ values, beliefs, and way of life.

In more recent times, the Kaibab Paiute Tribe has worked with the Mormons to help preserve their culture and way of life. They have also collaborated with the community to develop various educational and recreational activities that are open to both the Tribe and the Mormon community. These activities have helped foster a sense of unity between the two cultures, while allowing each group to maintain their individual identities.

Visiting Today

The Kaibab Band of Paiute Indians Visitor Center and Museum offers visitors the opportunity to learn more about the culture and history of the Kaibab people. Visitors can explore the museum’s exhibits, which feature artifacts from the tribe’s past, including traditional clothing and jewelry. The center also houses a library filled with books and other materials that shed light on the tribe’s history. 

In addition to exploring the museum, visitors can also choose to join a guided tour of The Kaibab Band of Paiute Indians reservation. The tour takes visitors through some of the most scenic and historically important locations on the reservation, including traditional homesites and sacred sites. Along the way, visitors will learn about the Kaibab’s traditional lifestyle and gain insight into their beliefs and values. The tour also allows guests to meet members of the tribe and speak with them directly, further deepening their understanding of the culture. 

Tours of the fort are available at half-hour intervals throughout the day during both summer and winter months. Visitors will see artifacts and furnishings from the 1800s and learn more about the history of the fort.

What you need to know