Cottonwood

A Brief History of Cottonwood

The story of Cottonwood begins in 1874, when soldiers from Camp Verde were stationed at an adobe house along the Verde River. As settlers began moving into the region, they discovered an abundance of cottonwood trees growing in a circle near the river, which became a natural meeting place for travelers and their horses. By 1879, several pioneering families had established permanent homesteads, and the community that would become Cottonwood was officially born. Charles D. Willard, often called the father of Cottonwood, was among the first settlers who recognized the area's rich agricultural potential.

The period between 1915 and 1917 marked Cottonwood's transformation from a quiet farming settlement into a booming town. Main Street itself was carved out in 1908 when two determined settlers used a mule team to drag and pull through the brush. By 1917, the town was experiencing unprecedented growth, attracting both law-abiding citizens and those seeking freedom from the strict regulations of nearby company towns like Clarkdale and Clemenceau. 

This era saw Cottonwood earn its colorful reputation, complete with speakeasies, pool halls, and some of the finest bootlegged whiskey in Arizona. By the 1920s, the town boasted an impressive number of businesses for its population of just 1,000 residents, earning it the proud nickname "The Biggest Little Town in Arizona."

The establishment of major copper smelters in the surrounding area brought significant economic development and population growth to the region. When the Clemenceau smelter closed in 1936, the community faced economic hardship, but the resilient spirit of Cottonwood's residents prevailed. The Cottonwood Women's Club organized to help those in need and raised funds to build the Cottonwood Civic Center in 1939. This spirit of community support and cooperation continues to define Cottonwood today.

On November 14, 1960, Cottonwood officially incorporated as a city with John Garrett serving as its first mayor. This milestone marked a new chapter in the town's evolution, transforming it from a frontier settlement into a thriving modern community while still preserving its historic charm and character.

Living and Working in Cottonwood

Cottonwood offers an exceptional quality of life that perfectly balances small-town charm with modern amenities. Situated at an elevation of 3,300 feet in the heart of the Verde Valley, the community enjoys a mild, year-round climate that avoids both the scorching desert heat to the south and the bitter cold of Arizona's high country. 

The local economy thrives on a diverse mix of healthcare, tourism, retail, and the burgeoning wine industry, with the Verde Valley Medical Center serving as one of the finest diagnostic and treatment facilities in the region. Families are drawn to Cottonwood's excellent schools, affordable housing, and strong sense of community, while professionals appreciate the city's position as the economic and cultural center of the Verde Valley. The town's proximity to natural wonders like Sedona's red rocks, the Grand Canyon, and pristine national forests makes it an ideal home base for those who value both career opportunities and outdoor recreation.

The Must-Sees of Cottonwood

Discover exceptional attractions within minutes of our Verde Valley practice location:

• Dead Horse Ranch State Park - A scenic riverside park offering hiking trails, fishing lagoons, camping, and abundant birdlife along the Verde River.
• The Krow Sports Bar and Grill – A casual local favorite for burgers, wings, and drinks, located just a few steps away from Peak Family Dental Care.
• Pepe’s Cafe – A longtime Cottonwood staple serving classic Mexican comfort food, also just a few steps from Peak Family Dental Care.
• Blazin' M Ranch - A fun, family-friendly Old West experience featuring a chuckwagon dinner, live western entertainment, and interactive activities.
• Historic Old Town Cottonwood - A walkable district filled with boutiques, art galleries, antique shops, and tasting rooms set in charming historic buildings.
  
  
• Merkin Vineyards Osteria - A popular spot for Arizona wines and farm-to-table Italian-inspired cuisine, known especially for its handmade pasta.
• Old Town Center for the Arts - A cozy cultural venue hosting live music, theater, films, and art events in a restored historic space.

At Peak Family Dental Care, we're honored to serve as your dedicated dentist in Cottonwood and the greater Verde Valley area. Our commitment to exceptional dental care is matched only by our dedication to this vibrant community we call home. Contact us today to schedule your appointment and experience the difference personalized dental care can make. We look forward to helping you achieve and maintain optimal oral health for years to come.