Welcome to the Pine-Strawberry Museum, a fascinating stop in the charming town of Pine, Arizona. This museum serves as a gateway to understanding the rich tapestry of history that defines this region. Established in 1979, the museum was created to preserve and showcase the artifacts that narrate the prehistory and history of Pine and its twin community, Strawberry.
The story of Pine and Strawberry begins with the Mormon pioneers who settled the area in 1879. These settlers faced numerous challenges, but their resilience laid the foundation for the vibrant communities we see today. The museum originally started in a single room within the Isabelle Hunt Memorial Public Library but moved to its current location in 1990, allowing a more expansive display of historical treasures.
The Pine-Strawberry Museum houses an impressive collection of artifacts from various eras, highlighting the area’s diverse cultural backdrop. From the prehistoric items of the Native American tribes such as the Anasazi, Tonto Apache, and Yavapai, to the everyday objects used by early settlers, the museum offers a comprehensive view of the past. Visitors can see relics like wash buckets, irons, and oil lamps, typical of those used by the early settlers, adding a tangible connection to the lives of those who once roamed this land.
Notably, the area was once home to Zane Grey, the renowned author known as the ‘Father of the Western Novel.’ Grey’s work often reflected his love for Rim Country, and he spent many years exploring and writing about the region.
Another fascinating chapter in Pine’s history involves the Oldest Standing Schoolhouse in Arizona, built in 1884. This schoolhouse, along with many other historic structures, tells the story of a community’s dedication to education and progress.
Throughout the years, the Pine-Strawberry Museum has evolved, continuing to educate visitors about the unique history of this region. It remains a testament to the pioneering spirit and cultural richness that characterized the early days of Pine and Strawberry.
So, as you explore the museum, imagine the stories contained within its walls — stories of hardship, perseverance, and community. Each artifact here is a piece of a much larger narrative, the story of a land that has seen change and growth over centuries.
