San Simon, located in southeastern Arizona near the New Mexico border, has a rich history that reflects the broader narrative of the American West. Established in the mid-19th century, this small community has seen significant changes from its origins as a stagecoach stop to its role in the railroad expansion and its colorful encounters with outlaws.

Early History

San Simon was founded in early 1859 as the first Butterfield Overland stagecoach station on the Arizona-New Mexico border. Its strategic location on the flats made it a vital rest point for stage drivers after the perilous trek through Doubtful Canyon. While it provided much-needed respite, the journey continued to the next station, which involved a difficult passage through Apache Pass, notorious for its challenges and dangers (Lange, 1976).

The Railroad Era

In the 1880s, the arrival of the Southern Pacific Railroad marked a turning point for San Simon. The construction of a railroad station attracted settlers and led to the growth of a small town around it. This development was part of a broader trend during the late 19th century when railroads transformed the economy and accessibility of many regions in the West (Williams, 1998).

Environmental Changes

By the turn of the century, the San Simon River was a vital water source, flowing from its headwaters through the fertile San Simon Valley to the Gila River. However, between 1902 and 1905, a severe drought, coupled with overgrazing and deforestation, caused significant ecological degradation, leading to the river's decline (Arizona Department of Water Resources, 2002).

Outlaws and Political Scandals

During the late 1800s, San Simon also gained notoriety as a hideout for a gang of outlaws known as the "Cowboys." This loosely organized group of rustlers operated in Cochise County and was implicated in various criminal activities. In November 1880, San Simon became the scene of a controversial election scandal involving Johnny Ringo, a delegate to the Democratic convention, and Republican Bob Paul. Despite only fifty eligible voters, the election yielded 103 ballots, overwhelmingly favoring the Democrat Charlie Shibell, who was backed by the Cowboys. The presence of dubious election officials, including Ringo and Ike Clanton, further tainted the election. Eventually, the results were overturned, with Bob Paul declared the Pima County Sheriff (Riley, 2005).

Legacy

Today, San Simon is a small community that retains its historical significance. The legacy of the Butterfield stagecoach era, the railroad expansion, and its colorful outlaw history continue to attract interest from historians and visitors alike. While much has changed, San Simon remains a testament to the rugged spirit of the American West.

References

- Arizona Department of Water Resources. (2002). *Arizona Water Atlas, Volume 5: Southeast Arizona*. Retrieved from [ADWR website](https://new.azwater.gov)

- Lange, R. (1976). *The Butterfield Overland Mail: 1858–1861*. Norman: University of Oklahoma Press.

- Riley, M. (2005). *The Cowboys: The Untold Story of the Wild West Outlaws*. New York: HarperCollins.

- Williams, D. (1998). *Rails Across the Southwest: The Story of the Southern Pacific Railroad*. Tucson: University of Arizona Press.

San Simon's history is a fascinating microcosm of the challenges and transformations faced by many communities in the West, capturing the essence of a bygone era.