Bennett Insurance Group Presents: Desert Caballeros Western Museum

The Desert Caballeros Western Museum, a private non-profit institution, was founded in 1960.  The first president of the Society was H. K. "Mac" MacLennan, former superintendent of schools, a position he held for 30 years. The purpose of the Museum was and still is "To collect and preserve the history, learning, lore and mementos incident to the development of Wickenburg and the Arizona Territory." 

The Museum did not officially open to the public until May 8,1969, after what was said to be 20 years of planning. Housed in the building that had once been Brayton's Commercial Company, a general store built in 1906, the property was donated by W. S. "Sky" Thurber. The first curator was Orpha Baker, who was responsible for creating many of the dioramas and models and fashioned extensive artwork dealing with the early Indian culture.

The Museum prospered for several years until a tragic fire consumed the entire building on December 21,1972. Hundreds of items were lost, all of which were irreplaceable. But with typical Wickenburg enthusiasm, a capital campaign was almost immediately underway and a new museum was built. 

Built on the same site as the former Brayton's Commercial Co., the new museum, designed by architect Harry Van Hoven, was built at a cost of $319,000 and could boast of over 14,000 square feet. Governor Raul Castro led a parade for the Museum's dedication in December 1975 which hundreds of people attended. The parade was formed under the direction of Hal Braman and was headed by a horseback color guard of Desert Caballeros riders, followed by an antique car with the governor and his wife. Miss Gold Nugget, Cindy Voehl, and attendant Tammy Brown, 

In the fall of 1985 the Museum board and staff embarked on a three-year expansion project. Phase I began in September when the Eleanor Blossom Memorial Library was added, along with new offices, increased work space for volunteers, and renovation of the gift shop. The architect was Reed Settle of Prescott. This phase was completed in April 1986. 

Park and Sculpture
In July 1987, plans were unveiled for a museum park, which would replace the closed service station on the corner of Tegner and Wickenburg Way. Groundbreaking took place on April 11,1988. The official dedication of the park was November 26,1988. Local dignitaries attended this special ceremony and remarks were given by Governor Rose Mofford and Eddie Basha. The park, built to honor Museum Volunteers, features low-water desert plantings and a nine-foot bronze sculpture “Thanks for the Rain” by Arizona artist Joe Beeler..

Location: 21 N. Frontier Street  Wickenburg, AZ 85390  928-684-2272

Website: http://www.westernmuseum.org

When considering your need for insurance products for your home or business consider contacting Bennett Insurance Group at 623-979-4140

Brought to you by:
Jim Bennett
Bennett Insurance Group
623-979-4140
http://jimbennettinsurance.com
jim@jimbennettinsurance.com