Clarkdale,
located in the Verde Valley of Yavapai County, is approximately 110 miles north of Arizona's capital, Phoenix, 25
miles southwest of the famous red rock country of Sedona, and 4 miles east of the historic mining town
of Jerome. (click here to view area map) A popular vacation spot, Clarkdale sees approximately 100,000 tourists a year. But be warned, once you visit, we
guarantee you'll fall in love with Clarkdale's scenic beauty, rich history, and community warmth. Of course
you're always welcome to turn a visit into a permanent stay.
Founded in 1912 by William Andrews Clark,
Clarkdale is known as Arizona’s first “Master Planned” community claiming to be one of the most modern mining
towns of its time. Construction of Clarkdale took place over many years, beginning in 1914 and finishing
in 1930. The phased construction led to various approved architectural styles, such as: Mission, English Cottage, Bungalow,
Craftsman, Eclectic, Tudor and Spanish Colonial Revival. In 1989 Clarkdale was placed on the National Register of Historic
Places, comprised of 386 homes and buildings. It is rural Arizona's largest Historic District! Over
the years Clarkdale has grown and changed, but one thing remains the same, its small town sense of community.
Clarkdale is a unique example of a company smelter town owned,
planned, and developed by William A. Clark of Montana, owner of the United Verde Copper Company. Clark made many technological
improvements to the mining process and created the United Verde and Pacific Railroad in 1894 that eventually turned his
company into the richest privately owned copper mine in the world!