Sasco, Arizona

Sasco Power House Arizona Before 1921

Sasco, Arizona was a short-lived ghost town located in the Sonoran Desert of Pima County, Arizona, United States. Established in 1907, Sasco (an acronym for Southern Arizona Smelting Company) was primarily developed to process the copper ore mined in the nearby Silver Bell Mountains. Despite its brief existence, Sasco played a significant role in the early 20th-century mining boom in Arizona, reflecting the broader economic and industrial trends of the period.

History

The foundation of Sasco was closely tied to the burgeoning copper mining industry in Arizona, which saw significant growth due to the increasing demand for copper, particularly for use in electrical wiring. In 1906, the Southern Arizona Smelting Company purchased land near the Silver Bell Mountains to construct a smelter that would process ore from the Silver Bell Mine and other local mines.

Construction of the smelter and the town began in 1907, with Sasco quickly growing to include a post office, a hotel, a general store, and housing for the workers. At its peak, the town boasted a population of approximately 600 people. The smelter became operational in 1908, playing a crucial role in the local mining industry.

However, Sasco's prosperity was short-lived. The town faced several challenges, including fluctuating copper prices, logistical difficulties in transporting ore and supplies, and a lack of water resources. By 1919, after the post-World War I decline in copper prices, the smelter was no longer profitable and was shut down. The town was abandoned shortly thereafter, with most residents leaving in search of employment elsewhere.

Remains

Today, Sasco is considered a ghost town, with only a few structures still standing, including parts of the smelter, the foundation of the hotel, and some remnants of residential buildings. The site has become a destination for historical preservation enthusiasts and those interested in Arizona's mining history. Despite its state of disrepair, Sasco offers a glimpse into the life and challenges of early 20th-century mining communities in the American Southwest.

Preservation

Efforts to preserve Sasco have been complicated by its remote location and the extensive damage to the remaining structures. However, the site is recognized for its historical significance, particularly in the context of Arizona's mining heritage. Enthusiasts and historians advocate for its preservation as an important part of the state's industrial past.

In Popular Culture

Sasco has been featured in various forms of media, including documentaries and photo essays, which highlight its history and the broader narrative of boom and bust in American ghost towns. Its picturesque ruins, set against the backdrop of the Sonoran Desert, have also attracted photographers and filmmakers interested in capturing the essence of the American West.

See Also

• Ghost towns in Arizona
• Mining in Arizona
• Sonoran Desert
• Copper mining in Arizona