MESA 4 WHEELERS HORN NEWSLETTER

August 2020 Mesa 4 Wheelers, PO Box 107, Mesa AZ 85201 http://mesa4wheelers.com

MESA 4 WHEELERS STAFF President Norm Clark 623-742-7336 Vice President Wendi Kawa 480-860-0478 REMEMBER WHEN? 30 years ago? Secretary Pat Jenkins 480-834-0517 Treasurer Ray Jenkins 480-834-0517 Mesa 4 Wheelers 30 Years Ago Corres.Secretary Hazel Hart 480-994-1260 Membership Lori Moore 602-647-1685 Mesa 4 Wheelers 30 Years Ago Report Editor Mike Drawsky 480-502-9507 August 1990 Remembrance Gert Leible 623-869-8434 Trophies Clete Hruska 602-568-1140 There were no Trip Reports for the month of August, but there Safety Chairman John Hart 480-994-1260 were Trips. Publicity OPEN

The First Trip was: Next Meeting Crown King Campout - August 18th & 19th Trip Leader: Mike Dreckman Saturday (09-12-20) Meeting place: I-17 @ Bell road at Denny’s Restaurant Location: Rimrock Meeting time: 6 A.M., Saturday August 18th For more details, see Upcoming Runs & Events

Spend a relaxing weekend in the Cool Pines!!! The road to the campsite requires 4-wheel drive. Bring a pass- PRESIDENT'S CORNER a-round dish to share for Saturday’s dinner. We’ll spend a Looking forward to another good turnout for our upcoming leisurely Sunday morning at camp and head home Sunday September runs! afternoon.

The second Trip was: -Norm Breakfast at - August 25th Trip Leader: Greg Anderson Meeting Place: Top of Four Peaks at cattle guard Meeting time: 9 A.M.

Members need only to bring drinks, camp table, chairs or snacks if desired. Hosts will provide Breakfast, table service and lots of “Non Essential Information” for entertainment!!

There will not be a 4x4 Run. We will be meeting for Breakfast and a relaxing morning…to be heading home before the heat.

Edited by: Ray Jenkins

CLUB TRIP REPORTS Flagstaff & Cider Hills OHV Run Saturday & Sunday, August 8th & 9th Trip Leader: Norm Clark & Jim Hopper

Members in attendance: Jim Hopper, Norm Clark, Ray & Pat Jenkins, Mike Drawsky, Keith Fliegel, Dan & Debb Smith and Dave Rupel Guests in attendance: Don & Chris Netzel, Gary & Brian Keller, Chris & Eliesa Little and April Taylor.

Looking across at Mt. Humphreys from the top of one of the many cinder cones.

Meeting up at the Denny's in Flagstaff for Saturday run through the Cinders

Admiring the view and cool weather!

Airing down at Little Cinder Basin in Cinder Hills OHV Area

From left to right: Pat, Ray, Norm, Dave, Jim, Keith, Chris, Eliesa, Don, Chris, April, Brian, Dan and Debb

Flagstaff & Cider Hills (Continued)

A view of Mt. Humphreys from on top of Double Crater

On top of the north rim of Double Crater

The Cinder Hills OHV Area was not overly crowded, allowing stops at all the vista points, along the crater rims.

This weekend’s trip leader, Norm, chatting with Jim, who has been running the Cinders for over 50 years and had volunteered to lead this portion of the run.

Lined up at the base of $100 Hill at Double Crater

Flagstaff & Cider Hills (Continued)

Gary watching the light weight razors race up the steep crater More views from the rim of Double Crater of Mt. Humphreys walls.

When driving the Cinders, the safest routes for a stock Breaking for lunch at the rim of Competition Hill horsepower 4-wheel drive vehicle, is along the crater rim, not down inside the crater.

Flagstaff & Cider Hills (Continued)

We were surprised and delighted to see Gary and Brian show up to join us for this weekend's Flagstaff runs! Watching a razor driving down into the cinder cone.

Dave, who lives in Rimrock, north of Camp Verde, traveled the Our campsite, near the base of Mt. Humphreys, a few miles shortest distance to get here. west of Snowbowl.

Lining up at FR794 and SR180 to begin our second day of While the rest of us brought tents to sleep in, Jim brought his wheeling. pop-up camper!

Flagstaff & Cider Hills (Continued)

Trip leader Norm, going over the rest of the day’s planned route with Jim & Ray. At the intersection of FR247 and SR180, waiting for some of our group to finish airing down.

Enjoying the cool 75o temps and one another’s company

Breaking for lunch off KNF90 in Kaibab National Forest.

Another photo of our Sunday lunch stop

Enjoying a cool summer breeze with no one else in sight!

Flagstaff & Cider Hills (Continued)

A view of from on top of Saddle Mountain.

Sunday afternoon, Norm led us down FR550 and up FR550A leading us to the top of Saddle Mountain.

So that all who made the drive up Saddle Mountain were accounted for, Chris took a last minute photo to capture Mike, Jim, Norm, Don and Chris, posing at the top of Saddle Ray and Pat. Mountain.

Moments later, Gary caught up with us and Mike shot this photo of them, with Mt. Humphreys in the background.

Senator Highway (Crown King to Prescott) Saturday & Sunday, August 8th & 9th Trip Leader: Mike Drawsky

Members in attendance: Walter & Gert Leible, Jim Kawa, Norm Clark, Linda Drawsky, Keith Fliegel, Dan & Debb Smith and Ralph Koepke Guests in attendance: Don & Chris Netzel, Chris & Eliesa Little, April Taylor, Brian & Tricia Nishimoro, Brett & Jackie Anderson and Ron Koeple.

A little before 9 AM, the majority of the day’s group arrived in Crown King. While waiting for the rest, trip leader Mike, encouraged those who have never been here before to visit the Crown King Saloon to view the many historical photo hanging on the walls.

By 9:30 AM our caravan of eleven vehicles had all arrived and were ready to begin the 37-mile drive along the Senator

A bit of Cleator history: Cleator was established in 1864 as a Highway, from Crown King to Prescott. placer gold mining site under the name Turkey Creek Mining The history of Crown King: An estimated $2,000,000 in gold District. A post office was established at Turkey Creek in July was taken from the Crowned King Mine alone; the mines have 1869 but closed within three months. been closed since the 1950s and for the past half-century

Turkey Creek was renamed Cleator in 1925 after James P. tourism has been the only reliable source of income in the Cleator took possession of the town from Levrett P. Nellis. He area, despite the fact that the unpaved, mountainous access then named the post office after himself. The post office closed roads are rocky, rough and slow to drive.

July 15, 1954. Cleator's population fell in the 1920s as mining The first recorded gold claim in Crown King was "Buckeye" and in the area declined and the town was put up for sale by James was filed by Rod McKinnon on July 1, 1875. Over the next 40 Cleator in April 1949. It then had about 60 residents. James P. years, more than 15 mines or claims were made in the area. At Cleator's son Thomas bought the town and lived there until his its height, the town had 500 buildings, including several stores death in 1996. He kept the small bar open most of the years he and boarding houses, two Chinese restaurants and a post lived there. After his death everything was inherited by his office. The town was electrified by 1897 and had one telephone sister Eleanor and her son. The bar is still open and a favorite at that time. stop along the dusty road for recreational ATV drivers and weekend tourists.

While an active mining town, Crown King was served by the Bradshaw Mountain Railroad. Rail service to the area Mike, has Don, pose for a photo in front of the Crown King began in 1904 upon completion of "Murphy's Impossible Saloon. This was Don and his wife, Chris’s first time here. Railroad" — a series of switchbacks and trestles that ascended the mountain terrain between Cleator and Crown King. The History of the Crown King Saloon: Of the buildings still railroad began in Mayer, , connecting with Murphy's standing and in use in Crown King, the Crown King Saloon has Prescott & Eastern and extended for 28 miles amid the rocky maintained its place as the center of activity in town. The terrain. Saloon was originally constructed and operated in the nearby Crown King was the terminus (1904–1926) of the railroad, built mining town of Oro Belle (now also a ghost town). In 1910, it by Frank M. Murphy to serve the mines of the southern was disassembled and brought to Crown King piece by piece . However, these mines were never very after the mine at Oro Belle had played out. The building was productive, and the BMRR was a financial failure. The line was home to a brothel and bar in both towns and now serves the abandoned in 1926. Much of the road to Crown King uses the public as a hotel, cafe, and bar. old railroad bed. Senator Highway (Continued)

Drifting smoke from the California fires limited long distance Just as we arrived at the Palace Station, a kind gentleman visibility along the Senator Highway. outside our group, volunteered to take this group photo.

Walter & Gert’s new Dodge 4X4 on its first off-road trip Palace Station History: Palace Station, located 17 miles south of Prescott, is one of the most famous stage stops in Senator Highway History: The Senator Highway was built in Yavapai County. Having been built in 1875, its history is long 1866 as part of the Prescott and Lyn Creek Toll Road. The toll and its future is bright. was $1.50 per wagon and $0.50 cents per horseback rider. In 1875, Samuel Fredricks, who owned the Senator Mine, Palace Station is one of the few remaining stagecoach stations constructed a connecting road from Groom Creek that dating from the settlement of the Arizona Territory. The station led directly to the mine. Eventually, this road would extend played an important role in the social and economic to 32 miles and connect with the town of Crown King. development of the new territory and is now…on the National Register of Historic Places.”

The location of the stop is in Crook's Canyon, named for Gen. George Crook who effectively brought an end to the area's Indian conflicts.

In 1873, Alfred B Spence along with his wife and father-in-law, left Missouri to settle on Groom Creek. At first, they built a sawmill there, but 2 years later decided to build the log structure that still stands today. Its location was chosen because “it was halfway between Prescott and the Peck Mine, which at the time was one of the most prominent mines in the Territory.

The business was an immediate hit. In 1878, the newspaper reported that “Mr. Spence’s Palace Station on Turkey Creek, is highly spoken of by the traveling public.”

The original log structure was built in the manner typical of pioneer cabins and had 2 downstairs rooms and a sleeping loft After traveling 20 miles from Crown King, northwest along the (for the family.) In 1890, when sawed lumber was more readily Senator Highway, we arrive at the historic Palace Station. available, the board and batten kitchen was added” and meals were served.

Senator Highway (Continued) At the time of the Spences arrival here the only access route into Crooks Canyon was a mule trail. The Senator road from Prescott went only to the Senator Mine, approximately 6 miles north of here. In 1877 a wagon road was surveyed into the canyon and, thereafter, the Prescott to Phoenix stage carried passengers to Palace Station and beyond to the Peck Mine.

At Palace Station the horses were watered and rested while the travelers enjoyed a meal prepared by Mrs. Spence. Horses were changed at Bully Bueno, another station 6 miles southeast from here. The trip from Prescott to the Peck mine was completed in a single day. And thus Palace station did not provide sleeping accommodations for the stage rider at first.

For those into photography, the perfect time to be here is when this patch of tulips is in bloom.

Chris & Gert standing on the porch of the Palace Station

Senator Mine History: Discovered in the 1860s, the Senator Mine was one of the longest successful mining operations even though Apache Indian attacks halted work from time to time. Mine tunnels extend over 3 miles into the mountains including many side tunnels and shafts. A stamp mill was built to process the abundant copper, gold, lead, and zinc.

The mining camp was built along the steep banks of the Hassayampa River. In the early years, it contained a saloon, a store, tent homes, and a boarding house. During the 1890's, Phelps Dodge purchased the mine and the camp became a Gert snapped a photo of Mike standing next to the flag pole. small town. The town was expanded and included hotels, restaurants, more saloons, a church, and a school.

A dam was constructed on the Hassayampa to hold water for mining operations and provide the town’s drinking water. Later the town spread along the Senator Highway and the river and was referred to as "Senator" or "Maxton".

In 1901, an official U.S. post office was added. In 1903, a labor strike closed the mine. World War I brought a boom with the need of raw materials for the war effort. Good times continued into the 1930's. Operations halted resulting into a ghost mine and town.

One can visit this location today and old foundations, mines, mining equipment and other relics can be found if you’re diligent. The location is easy to find as it sits right along the April was the only one in our group who had the nerve to sit in Senator Highway south of Groom Creek. this old log chair. Since the day it opened its doors to those seeking respite in the mile-high mountain oasis, the Hassayampa Inn has been a sought-after retreat for travelers searching for a relaxing respite from life’s hustle and bustle. While the exterior was changed to a more sensible brick construction, the interior exudes the warmth and cheer of the romantic southwest. Hand-painted ceiling beams, dramatic wall murals, rich glazed tiling, elaborate etched and stained glass doors and windows all combine to create an environment that is both warm and inviting. Yesteryear’s charm combines with today’s modern amenities to make the 67-room Hassayampa Inn a haven for sophisticated guests seeking a sense of pampered well-being.

Looking down Gurley Street at the Hassayampa Inn and Thumb Butte in the background

The Inn’s lobby still looking as it did when it opened in 1927.

Trip leaders, Lin & Mike, decided to end the day’s run with an overnight stay at the historic Hassayampa Inn, in downtown Prescott.

Hassayampa Inn history: In 1927, El Paso architect Henry Trost was challenged by a group of local citizens to design a grand hotel that would become the cornerstone of downtown Prescott. After the foundation was laid, Trost was further challenged to modify the previously approved Pueblo-style facade to a more simple brick design. He opted for an eclectic mix of Spanish Colonial Revival and Italianate exterior rendered red brick trimmed in white and topped by a bell tower. Along with the elegant Porte Cochere, the 1927 vintage elevator is one of the most memorable things about the Hassayampa Inn. The historic inn has lived up to its original challenge and remains a prominent facet of community life. Don & Chris, joined Mike & Lin for a relaxing dinner at the Hassayampa Inn. Senator Highway (Continued) surrounding region came at the expense of the Yavapai, the native people who had occupied the region for centuries before the influx of those drawn there by the promise of riches and other opportunities. The inevitable conflict between the two cultures forced the Yavapai onto a reservation at San Carlos in southeastern Arizona. In the early 1900s, the Yavapai returned to Prescott where – as the Yavapai-Prescott Indian Tribe – they now play a vital role in the region’s economy as the owner/operator of a modern shopping center and two gaming casinos. Prescott lost its standing as the territorial capital in 1867 when the capital was moved to Tucson by an act of the Legislature. Prescott regained it in 1877. As the population and political influence shifted, the capital was permanently relocated to Phoenix in 1889. Prescott continues to serve as the county seat of Yavapai County. Prescott continued to prosper and develop, and by 1920 could boast a population of approximately 5,000.

FUTURE TRIPS & EVENTS Clear Creek from Camp Verde, (Club Meeting, and BBQ)

Trip Leaders: Dave Rupel Contact # 775-671-0877 Please RSVP. Address: 5700 N Spitfire Dr, Rimrock, AZ 86335 When: Saturday, Sept 12, 2020 Meet: 9:30AM, West side of I-17 off Camp Verde exit (Hwy 260) at McDonalds Parking lot Pullout: 10:00AM Sharp! Trail Time: Approx 3 hours Trail Rating: 2.5 Scenic Rating: 7 out of 10 (So bring your camera!) Elevation: 3,500 - 5,300 feet

Trip Description: Possibility of rain during this time of year. This is a graded dirt road from Hwy 260 to an overlook above

Prescott History: In the midst of the Civil War in 1863, the U.S. Clear Creek Canyon. Then returning down to Bull Pen riparian Congress enacted legislation creating the Arizona Territory. The area along the creek. After the trail we will continue to the War was costly to the government and federal leaders were home of the trip leader for a club meeting and barbecue most likely influenced by the prospect of mineral wealth in the lunch/dinner of hot dogs and burgers supplied by the host. area that became the Arizona Territory. A few months later, in May 1863, that promise came to fruition as an exploration party What to Bring: A chair, water and snacks for the trail. Also led by Captain Joseph R. Walker discovered gold in the bring a pass- around dish to share. Bradshaw Mountains, just south and east of present-day Prescott. A subsequent discovery of gold in the Antelope PLEASE RSVP THE TRIP LEADER SO WE KNOW THE Mountains set in motion a chain of events which led to the COUNT FOR FOOD AND SUPPLIES. establishment of Fort Whipple on the banks of Granite Creek, the founding of the town of Prescott on May 30, 1864, and its Sunflower Mine designation as the first capital of Arizona Territory, as well as the Trip Leaders: Mike Drawsky seat of government for newly-created Yavapai County. Contact # (480) 502-9507 Adventurers – miners in search of gold – and farmers and When: Saturday, Sept 26, 2020 ranchers seeking a new beginning on land made available Meet: 8:00 Denny’s Restaurant, Shea Blvd, Fountain Hills through the federal Homestead Act, merchants, lawyers, and Pullout: 9:00 others simply seeking a new opportunity came to Prescott. Finish Time: To the mine & back 3:00. Running the Loop 5:00. Together they created a community with schools, churches, Rating: To the mine & back is a 3. Running the Loop is a 4 business establishments, other social organizations and, of course, saloons and brothels. Eventually came the railroads and Trip Description: Run is rich in scenery, mining history and other indicia of 19th century modernization, such as electricity some challenging trail conditions. and public water service. To be sure, Prescott in its territorial What to Bring: Lunch and plenty of water! years was a frontier town and had its share of crime, rowdyism and an occasional gunfight on Whiskey Row. Over time it matured and developed into a commercial center for the central highlands. The settlement and development of Prescott and its Harquahala Peak MESA 4 WHEELERS WEBSITE Trip Leaders: Jim McKaskle Contact # (480) 502-9507 When: To Be Rescheduled Meet: 8:00 Cowboy Cookin’ Restaurant, 495 E Wickenburg Way, Wickenburg, AZ 85390, for breakfast Pullout: 9:00 Finish Time: 6:00 Rating: 2.5 Trip Description: The two old mines we will be visiting on the

Harquahala Peak run are the Purple Pansy and the Black Rock To log onto the M4W website go to: and they are only a couple of miles apart. Both are rather http://mesa4wheelers.com interesting. What you will find on our website:

Photo Gallery (Club Runs & Events) Mojave Road 3-Day Overland Route Club Information (About Us, FAQ, Membership, Newsletters, Trip Leader: Kelly Calvert Links) Contact: 206-669-5785, [email protected] Calendar (Posted Runs & Events) When: To Be Rescheduled Forum (General Category, Travels, Marketplace) Contact Us (Contact form for new members) ITEMS FOR SALE: BUSINESS ADVERTISING CLUB ITEMS FOR SALE M4W Flag $15.00 M4W Vehicle Plate $25.00 M4W 5” & 7” Logos $2.00 M4W Banners $5.00 State Decals $2.00 M4W Arm Patches $0.50 United Decals $1.00

BIRTHDAYS

August Suzy Hayton 8/11 Sandi Butler 8/13 Chuck Elliott 8/16 Glenn McConnell 8/17 Jim Clawson 8/18 Richard Dalton 8/18 Bill Mihailov 8/21 Walter Leible 8/25 Jeff Raben 8/24

September Paula Brown 09/24 Bev Coppage 09/?? John Guthrie 09/02 Michael Marchi 9/12 John Hart 09/16 Adeline Hayton 09/25 Kurt Loga 09/09 Bob Nyberg 09/02 Bob Williams 09/14

CLUB ANNIVERSARIES

Dave Rupal, 8/17 Regular

Nate & Judi Vankeuren 8/92 Life

Adelaide D’Ippolito 8/17 Regular

Adelaide Burkett 8/17 Regular

Rodney Reiners & Brigid Deatherage 8/19 Regular

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