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Jones Museum and the Superior Historical Society |
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The Bob Jones Museum was opened in March, 1994 during the Apache Leap Days Celebration. Housed in the former residence of Robert T. “Bob” Jones, the 6th Governor of the State of Arizona, the Superior Historical Society, Inc. created displays that focus on local artifacts and include exhibits of photographs, mining equipment and geological samples. The exhibits have expanded to include a life-size miner, enhanced memorabilia of Robert T. Jones, and folklore and facts regarding Heroes and Villains – featuring Wyatt Earp’s wife, Mattie, who is buried in one of the local cemeteries. |
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to see exhibits larger. |
During the March 2000 annual Mountain Festival, the Superior Historical Society featured an exciting new exhibit entitled “The Magma Mine Smelter: A Superior Beginning” which portrays images and stories of Superior’s early mining history. Broken Hill Proprietary (formerly Magma Copper Company) donated a series of panoramic negatives of the historic construction of the Magma Mine Smelter in 1923-24. The smelter ceased operations in 1971. |
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| These exclusive panoramic photographs are the central theme for this display. Narratives in the exhibit are interwoven with photographs and tell stories of significant moments with the early construction and development of the Magma Mine Smelter and, subsequently, the Town. These photographs recreate vivid characteristics of mining and its effect on the Mexican and Mexican American community: mining conditions; emergence of the railroad; strong family ties; kinship and bonding; courage and endurance; and an over-riding sense of optimism. |  |
During the March 2005 Mountain Festival, there was a grand re-opening of the Bob Jones Museum, showcasing rehabilitation of the building and several new exhibits. In progress is the “Miner’s Cage” exhibit portraying some of the conditions miner’s endured during peak production of copper and precious metals in the Superior mines. |
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| We encourage you not only to visit the Bob Jones Museum located at 300 W. Main Street in Superior but also to recognize the important role that history plays in strengthening our sense of community and the important role that preservation plays in keeping our history alive. |  |
There is no admission charge, all ages are welcome, the Museum is ADA accessible and there is adequate parking on the street. The Superior Historical Society, Inc. is a non profit 501(c)(3) organization. |
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