The Tombstone Epitaph is a monthly publication based in Tombstone, Arizona. It is dedicated to covering the history and culture of the Old West. The newspaper was founded in January 1880, making it the oldest continually published newspaper in Arizona. This rich history makes it a significant part of the cultural heritage of the state.
The Tombstone Epitaph is renowned for its coverage of the infamous Gunfight at the O.K. Corral in 1881. The newspaper continues to show interest in research related to Wyatt Earp, Doc Holliday, and their outlaw adversaries, the Cochise County Cowboys. This focus on historical events and figures provides a unique perspective on the Old West.
The Epitaph office, located in Tombstone's historical district, is open to visitors daily from 9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. Inside, visitors can watch a free video presentation about printing in the 1880s, view a Washington flat bed press used to print early issues of The Epitaph, and explore a large museum dedicated to the era of "hot metal" printing. The office also houses rare photographs and other early Tombstone newspapers. Visitors can learn about the life of John Philip Clum, the frontiersman who started The Epitaph.
History & Anthropology Historic house Language & Literature Person & Artist
11 S. Fifth Street, Tombstone
No exhibitions in The Tombstone Epitaph have been found.
The Tombstone Epitaph has 1 rating.
The Tombstone Epitaph, located in the historic town of Tombstone, Arizona, offers visitors a glimpse into the Old West's journalistic history. This small museum, housed in the original 1880s office of the newspaper, provides an interesting look at the printing process and news reporting of the era.
Visitors often appreciate the authenticity of the setting and the well-preserved artifacts, including vintage printing equipment and original newspaper copies. The museum does a good job of contextualizing the role of the Epitaph in Tombstone's history, particularly its coverage of the famous Gunfight at the O.K. Corral.
However, some guests find the museum to be quite small and feel that the experience is somewhat brief for the admission price. The limited space means that there isn't a vast amount of content to explore, which can be disappointing for those expecting a more extensive exhibit.
On the positive side, the staff is generally described as knowledgeable and friendly, often willing to answer questions and provide additional information. Many visitors enjoy the opportunity to receive a personalized reprint of an old Epitaph front page as a souvenir.
While The Tombstone Epitaph museum offers an authentic slice of Old West history, it may not appeal to all visitors equally. Those with a specific interest in journalism history or the Old West will likely find it more engaging than casual tourists. Overall, it serves as an educational stop for those exploring Tombstone's historic district, but it's best approached with measured expectations regarding its size and scope.
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