The trail starts in the historic town of Wickenburg and ventures through the Wickenburg and Bradshaw Mountains via Constellation Road and a network of trails. Although a few roads are suitable for most vehicles, many turnoffs contain steep and narrow shelf roads that create tippy situations. An experienced driver and common sense will ensure you traverse this mountain range safely. Route finding in this area is complex, an Off Road Trail Guide and Off Road GPS are strongly recommended.
homesteaded near the Hassayampa River and the miners who were attracted to the mineral rich mountains. The main commodity duringThe network of trails and abandon mine equipment within this remote mountain range are the remembrance of the people who its boom was gold, silver, and copper.
Brief History of Wickenburg: Wickenburg was founded 1863 when Henry Wickenburg discovered the Vulture Mine. To Mr. Wickenburg’s dismay, he sold the mine just before it became one of the richest gold mines in Arizona. After reaching 85 years of age and no longer being able to care for himself he took his life with a Colt Revolver. - 2007 World66.com
One well known miner by the name of William Bradshaw left the management of his prosperous ferry business in the hands of his brother Isaac. William had hoped to stake a claim on Rich Hill, but missed his opportunity. He then took a risk and ventured south of the silver mountain range. After a short time prospecting in the southern regions one of the two groups traveling with William quickly abandoned the prospecting and lost all hope. This turned out to be a regretful move on their part as Bradshaw's group, struck gold. From this a new mining district was named in his honor.
On December 17, 1864 under suspicious circumstances William Bradshaw allegedly committed suicide leaving his legacy to his brother Isaac Bradshaw. In 1867 Isaac, referred by many as Uncle Ike, sold his interest in the ferry and left his family behind to pick up his brother's lust for gold dust. He later became part owner, developer and superintendent of the rich Copper Basin mines.
Trail feature: Isaac Bradshaw’s Grave
Today Isaac Bradshaw’s gravesite can be found deep in the Wickenburg Mountains. His final resting place maintained by Bob Gray and his family. They paint the picket fence and maintain the grave markers once a year.
Trail Feature: Copperopolis Mine
The Copperopolis mine was open in 1883 and active until 1884. The ore it produced was low grade and by 1884 the small town site and mine was silent. In 1890 an out of state company reopened the mine and soon failed to yield enough copper to make the mine profitable. It stands silent today and still preserved.
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(Click here to view the entire Wickenburg Mountains and Isaac Bradshaw Photos)
Posted
Jun 18 2008, 10:10 PM
by
ryangibson