Visiting the Pioneer Living History Museum in Phoenix, Arizona


I visited the Pioneer Living History Museum a few days ago, which I've done many times, and I always thoroughly enjoy it. It may, or may not be for you, and I'll see if I can explain.

First of all, these are real buildings that just got too small for Phoenix, and Prescott, and they were moved to this spot. And that's the key here, that this is real, not a re-creation. And if you're like me, you enjoy seeing something real, and knowing that these buildings were actually in use by Arizonans long before air conditioning was invented (which always blows my mind!).


This isn't a backlot, and this isn't Disneyland. And frankly, if I were a kid I probably would find it boring. But as an adult with a fascination with history, especially Arizona history during the Victorian era, I just love it.

But if you're really not into that kinda stuff, it will just seem like a place where you "gotta go", like on a field trip, and you'll just be glad to out of there. I understand. So go there yourself, if this fascinates you, but resist the urge to drag people along who really don't care about pioneer life in Arizona. May I suggest meeting them at a restaurant?


But enough apologizes - this is for you, because I know that you'll understand. Go there, and stand under that Arizona sky. And skip the gift shop and stuff inside - just wander around outside, stick your head into the buildings, imagine what life was like back then. Touch the bars on the jail cell and know that there were other hands, on the other side.

I like to think about how much has changed, and how much has remained the same. History is a flowing river that you can dip your hand into. If you understand, you understand, and if not don't, worry about it, just go get a steak at Chileens on 17.

Thank you for the encouragement! If you want to see daily pics of my adventures on my recumbent trike in suburban Phoenix (just for fun, of course!) you can follow me on buymeacoffee.com/bradhall, and you can buy me a coffee if you'd like to!

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