Stagecoach Days rooted in history, sense of community

Stagecoach Days is back, continuing a long history of community spirit and pride. This year’s celebration is scheduled for Friday through Sunday, Oct. 8-10.

Maricopa was once known as Maricopa Wells, the Butterfield Stage Stop. In the late 19th century, travelers on the Butterfield Stage discovered close quarters, dusty trails and the threat of both Indian attacks and robberies.

An 1877 edition of the Omaha Herald advised, “Expect annoyance, discomfort and some hardships. If you are disappointed, thank heaven.”

In such close quarters etiquette was important for stagecoach passengers. Some of the rules of the road in the 1870s were:

Passengers who were asked to get out and walk were expected to do so—without grumbling.

Drinking spirits was allowed, but passengers were expected to share their libations.

Swearing and sleeping on a fellow passenger’s shoulder were not allowed.

And, finally, due to the dust of the trail, greasing one’s hair was definitely discouraged.

Stagecoach Days became a celebration of Maricopa’s history and heritage. The event, which began in 1958 – 100 years after the establishment of the Butterfield Overland Express Company – started as a way to raise funds to build the Rotary swimming pool for local youth.

During the 1960s and 1970s festivities included kids and adults in western wear, horse events, a community barbeque, races, a beard contest, a barn dance and even rodeos.

This year’s Stagecoach Days, formerly Founders’ Day, will be a continuation of the annual commemoration and celebration of the 2003 incorporation of Maricopa and its history.

Events from a barn dance to a fun run and carnival rides will provide something for every age group and for the entire family.  Food vendors will be offering their specialties all weekend, and artists will display and share their work in the Artisan Village. On Saturday various groups will entertain on the main stage in the Beer Garden while local groups will perform at The Kids Corral.

Shuttles will be provided from locations throughout the city to Pacana Park on Saturday—without facing a dusty stagecoach trail or danger from attack.

Stagecoach Days events include the following:

Friday, Oct. 8
Maricopa Rotary Club Barn Dance – The Duke at Rancho El Dorado, 6 p.m.
Carnival – Pacana Park, 2-10 p.m.

Saturday, Oct. 9
Carnival – Pacana Park, 10 a.m.-10 p.m.
Vendor Village – Pacana Park, 10 a.m.-10 p.m.
Artisan Village – Pacana Park, 10 a.m.-10 p.m.
Kids Corral – Pacana Park, 10 a.m.-10 p.m.
Stagecoach Rides – Pacana Park, 11 a.m.-3 p.m.
Beer Garden – Pacana Park, 2-9 p.m.

Sunday, Oct. 10
Maricopa Mile Run – Pacana Park, 8 a.m.
Carnival – Pacana Park, Noon-5 p.m.

For more information or to volunteer, contact Brenda Campbell at 520-316-6963 or [email protected].

Photo courtesy of Maricopa Historical Society