Guide to Yuma, Arizona Museums
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YUMA TERRITORIAL PRISON STATE PARK: More than 3,000 desperadoes, convicted of crimes ranging from polygamy to murder, were imprisoned in rock and adobe cells here during the prison's 33-year existence between 1876 and 1909, this penitentiary housed many of Arizona's most dangerous and notorious criminals. Famed in movies, literature and television, the remains of the prison are now Arizona's most visited State Historic Park. Open year round, except on Christmas Day. Please call the park for current fees. Giss Parkway & Prison Hill Road, (928) 783-4771.

YUMA CROSSING STATE HISTORIC PARK: Yuma Crossing State Historic Park tells the history of the Crossing from prehistoric times until the present, set in the backdrop of the old Quartermaster's Depot. Through the eyes of the Native Americans, entrepreneurs, steamboat captains, fortune seekers and the military, it answers the questions of how the early emigrants survived or failed, living in one of the most rugged and isolated places in the world. The Quartermaster Depot was authorized by Congress in 1865 and served the entire Southwest as a material transfer and distribution point for troops stationed at the outposts of the Arizona Territory. Open 7 days a weeks, 10 am to 5 pm, except holidays. 210 North 4th Avenue, (928) 329-0471.

CENTURY HOUSE MUSEUM: A regional museum of the Arizona Historical Society, Century House is one of Yuma's oldest and most historic buildings. Once the home of pioneer merchant E. F. Sanguinetti, the museum now exhibits artifacts, photographs and furnishings of Arizona's territorial period. Colorful gardens and aviaries with exotic and talking birds are maintained as they were at the turn of the century. Museum, Library & Gift Shop are open 10 am to 4 pm, Tues through Sat. 240 South Madison, (928) 782-1841

ST. THOMAS MISSION: Ft. Yuma Indian Reservation. Built on the grounds of the original Mission founded by Father Garces in 1780, the Mission is a reminder of the long history of the Quechan Indian Nation and Yuma. The present Catholic Mission Church was built in 1922 and is a replica of the original Mission that was destroyed during an Indian uprising in 1855. Open during services on Saturday at 4:30 pm and Sunday at 10:30 am. (760) 752-0283. Winterhaven.

COCOPAH INDIAN MUSEUM: The permanent exhibits portray the historic, traditional and cultural lifestyle of the Cocopah (Kwapa) family and home life. The museum in situated on a beautiful 1.5 acres park. Heritage Park, with a traditional dwelling is surrounded by Sonoran Desert trees, shrubs and flowering cacti. It overlooks fields of corn and broccoli. The gift shop items include tribal beadwork, arts and crafts, tribal dolls Native American tapes and CD's, beading and jewelry supplies. The museum/gift shop is open Monday through Friday from 9 am to 4 pm; it is closed on the second and fourth Monday of each month. Drive South on Hwy 95 past Somerton, turn right on Avenue G, then turn left on County 15th, continue on County 15th for two miles. For further information, please call (620) 627-1992. (Please ask permission to photo).

YUMA LANDING: On October 25, 1911, the first plane to land in the state of Arizona did so in Yuma. Piloted by Robert G. Fowler, the Wright Model B biplane  (also known as a "Cole Flyer") was rented from the famed Wright Brothers, who had made their historic flight years before. Bob Fowler, began his flight in Santa Monica, California and was headed for the East coast. During this flight he landed near a ball park between 1st and 3rd streets on 4th avenue. In order to continue his flight, Bob enlisted the aid of local citizens who pushed the plane up the hill on 3rd street in order to give it a "downhill" run. Fifty-two years later Robert Fowler returned to Yuma for the dedication of a monument in his honor. Today a historic marker commemorating the "75th Anniversary of Flight in Yuma" stands in front of the Yuma Landing Restaurant. The restaurant is the only pictorial museum in Yuma, and also houses a fine collection of historic labels from citrus suppliers. Yuma Landing, and the Best Western Coronado (the first Best Western motel in the country, located across the street) are both owned by the peach family. They have collected photos and memorabilia that display Yuma's past, the history of their family, and the history of the hotel. There is a museum in the original lobby of the hotel that houses the original switchboard, Best Western convention pictures, travel guides, cash registers and magazines; along with vintage kitchenware and clothing. This is open by appointment only.