Superstition Mountain Museum 2023-24 Season

2023-24 SEASON

Dutchman’s Gulch, photo by Jack Olson

EXHIBITS • SPECIAL EVENTS • FREE LECTURES • CLASSES

Superstition Mountain Historical Society

Mountains had for a long time been in the back of the mind of local resident, journalist, and teacher, Tom Kollenborn. He, Larry Hedrick, Clay Worst, and Ron Lorenz first began discussing the idea in earnest in 1969. The Historical Society became a reality in 1980, and in 1989 the Society rented a building at Goldfield Ghost Town on the Apache Trail. The Superstition Mountain Museum opened its doors to the public in January 1990.

During the following thirteen years, the society was able to purchase the site

he Superstition Mountain Museum rests on the west end of the aweinspiring Superstition Mountain in central Arizona. The area, approximately 35 miles east of Phoenix on the historic Apache Trail (Hwy 88), is full of legends, history, and intrigue.

The Museum seeks to provide visitors with an historical context of the region: Native American peoples that have populated the Superstitions for centuries (the Salado, the Hohokam, and the Apache); the life of early western settlers (the Spanish, the trappers, the miners, and the cattlemen); and the industries, cattle, citrus, copper, cotton, and climate (tourism) that grew in the mid-1900s from the ingenuity, hard work, and persistence of those that followed.

Many of our legends were promoted through film and media and attract visitors from around the world. One of those legends, that of Jacob Waltz and the Lost Dutchman gold mine, has lured thousands into its web of intrigue.

The idea for establishing a museum devoted to the history, legends and lore of the Superstition

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from Apacheland Movie Ranch. A 20-stamp gold ore mill (pictured above), rescued from the mining town of Bland, New Mexico, is now operated for public demonstrations. An outdoor G-scale railroad with hundreds of period building models and props tells the railroading history of Arizona. A western town center—barber shop, jail, and Wells Fargo office—complement the many other outdoor exhibits on our 14-acre site.

As the museum continues to grow and flourish, it has become a hub of community activity. Each season our schedule is packed with cultural events and activities which include lectures, classes, and living history reenactments.

Local residents and visitors alike enjoy revisiting history in the shadow of the mighty Superstition The Museum’s gallery includes an extensive survey of the region’s legends and lore, Mountains. that it sits on today. In 2003 its first building was completed, and the Museum was relocated.

Today, hikers, horseback riders, photographers and tourists come to the Superstitions to enjoy the pleasures, beauty, and wonder of these fantastic mountains, now preserved as the Superstition Wilderness Area.

Those that are curious about the history and mystery of this intriguing area visit the Museum, with its central 4,900-square-foot exhibit hall and Museum Shop and numerous outdoor structures and exhibits. The Apacheland Barn and Elvis Chapel are the last surviving structures

as well as its geology, industry, past residents and visionaries. Photos by Jack Olson 4

2024 Free Lecture Series

EVERY THURSDAY AFTERNOON AT 2 P.M. • January - March

WELCOME

to the 2024 “Legends and Lore of the Superstitions and More,” our annual free lecture series which runs every Thursday afternoon at 2 p.m. in the outdoor amphitheater during the winter and early spring seasons at our museum.

The Superstition Mountain Historical Society Inc is a non-profit corporation organized to collect and preserve the history, legends, and lore of Arizona’s Superstition Mountain region; to support research, education, and publications involving the region; and to maintain a historical museum devoted to these endeavors.

SUGGESTIONS FOR LECTURE ATTENDEES: • Bring your own lawn chair; • Don’t forget a hat and sunscreen; • Please, no smoking; • Please don’t leave your dog in vehicle; • Coffee and cookies will be available for purchase with all of the proceeds going to the museum for continuing educational programs; • Come early and have lunch on the grounds.

Food will be available for purchase.

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2024 Free Lecture Series January 4 - Teton Ken The Lost Dutchman and His Mine

February 29 - Conrad Storad Animated Reading “Rattlesnake Rules”

January 11 - Randy HELM Wild Horse Adoption Program

March 7 - Zarco Guerrero Día de los Muertos

January 18 - Jodi Akers Saving the Apache Trail

March 14 - Jana Bommersbach* Hellraisers & Trailblazers, Women of the Wild West

January 25 - Jeff Grunow 1997 Phoenix Light Phenomenon

March 21 - Roger Naylor Awesome Arizona: 200 Amazing Facts March 28 - Jack San Felice Lost Eldorado of Jacob Waltz

February 1 - Kurt Cavano Four Peaks Amethyst Mine February 8 - Peter “Bigfoot” Busnack Ancient Natural Remedies

*Presented by

February 15 - Jon Daly The Story of Elvis’ “Charro”

All Superstition Mountain Museum programs and presentations are subject to change.

For current information, visit our website at SuperstitionMountainMuseum.org.

February 22 - Jeff Grunow Superstitions at the Superstitions

Fundraising raffles: As a self-supporting organization, we rely on revenue generated by our gift shops, events, and fundraisers.

At each week’s lecture we hold a 50/50 raffle, with half the cash collected going to the lucky winner.

Second prize is a lecture-related item from our gift shop. Raffle tickets are priced at 1 for $1, or 6 for $5.

Winning tickets are drawn from tickets sold that day. Winner must be present to win.

The season-long raffle tickets are $5 each. At the last lecture on March 28, the holder of the winning ticket will be announced. The winner need not be present.

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Presenters January 4 - Teton Ken The Lost Dutchman and His Mine This year’s annual lecture about the Old Dutchman Jacob Waltz and his infamous gold mine will be presented by our own Dutchman “lookalike in residence,” Teton Ken. Learn just who Jacob Waltz was, where he came from, the facts regarding his life and death in Phoenix, and how the clues (and gold found under his bed) have kindled a flame of interest that has only grown over the years into a mother lode of history and mystery. Teton Ken knows his history. For many years, he has packed gold hunters, hikers and television crews into (and out of) the Superstition Mountains.

He worked at Apacheland Movie Ranch and is an accomplished actor.

January 11 - Randy Helm Bureau of Land Management Wild Horse Adoption Program Randy Helm, a fourth generation Arizonan who has been training wild horses for more than 30 years, will discuss the United States Bureau of Land Management’s Wild Horse and Burro Adoption Program. He is currently the supervisor of the Wild Horse Inmate Program at Arizona State Prison in Florence, Arizona, which has inmates working with, and providing training for, 600 BLM wild horses for the U.S. Border patrol, ranches, individuals and law enforcement agencies. He has achieved success with both the wild horses and the prison inmates.

January 18 - Jodi Akers Saving the Apache Trail The Apache Trail has been closed for the past four years because of a rockfall on the most scenic section of the road. The rockfall was the result of more than six inches of rain falling in one day after fire crews extinguished the Woodbury Wildfire, prompting concerns over soil stabilization and continued flooding. The Arizona Department of Transportation (ADOT) then closed the road indefinitely. In September of 2023, ADOT held a public meeting to propose repair options, but a timeline to begin repairs is still to come. Jodi Akers, a longtime resident and former Apache Trail business owner will provide details of the ongoing effort to reopen Apache Trail through to Roosevelt Lake. County officials, state representatives and grass roots community support and lots of money will be needed to save Apache Trail.

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Presenters January 25 - Jeff Grunow 1997 Phoenix Light Phenomenon The widely reported unidentified flying objects observed in the skies over Arizona and Nevada on March 13, 1997 is the subject of Jeff Grunow’s lecture. Thousands of people saw the lights between 7:30 pm and 10:30 pm and some witnesses described seeing what appeared to be a huge carpenter's square-shaped UFO containing five spherical lights. Were the lights aircraft participating in a pilot training program, illumination flares dropped by aircraft or what then Governor Fife Symington described as “otherworldly?” Jeff Grunow, a local aficionado of all things “unexplained” will look back on the incident and enlighten attendees with his observations.

February 1 - Kurt Cavano Arizona’s Four Peaks Amethyst Mine Many people do not realize that there is a working amethyst mine located in the Four Peaks region that can be seen from the museum.

Mine owner Kurt Cavano will be sharing the history of this mine and his adventures while working it. Kurt is the owner of the Arizona Four Peaks Amethyst Mine. He has been a jewelry-making, stone-cutting rockhound for almost 50 years and has owned the mine for the last 15 years. For his presentation, Kurt will be bringing along rock samples and beautiful jewelry made with amethyst from his mine. For one day only, the jewelry will be sold at reduced prices (10% off).

February 8 - Peter “Bigfoot” Busnack Southwest Desert Survival and Healing Peter has an almost-forgotten lifestyle, living life his way in the vastness of the Superstitions Mountains. He will recount his tale of an 85-mile solo trek in the desert and how he used his preparations and skills to survive. “Bigfoot”—because of his size 15 shoe—is a respected natural healer, Sonoran desert herbalist and teacher.

He is the founder of Reevis Mountain School of Self-Reliance, a magical wilderness homestead, farm, and sanctuary located in the Superstition Wilderness.

Bigfoot is the author of three books of simple, natural remedies gleaned from 50 years of personal experience and wisdom; Book of Ancient Natural Remedies, Natural Remedies For Bites and Stings, and Cooking with Bigfoot.

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Presenters February 15 - Jon Daly The Story of Elvis’ Charro Jon Daly will share fascinating details about the American Western film Charro! which starred Elvis Presley. Filmed at Apacheland in 1968, Charro! premiered in 1969 and was the first and only film Elvis appeared on screen with a beard. Playing the part of outlaw cowboy Jess Wade, Elvis also did not have a musical interlude—unusual for his film franchise. Jon is the proud owner of the cowboy hat worn by the title character throughout the film. Whether you are an Elvis novice or an Elvis enthusiast, this in-depth presentation will impress and entertain you. Jon will share his vast Elvis knowledge, along with a special focus on the time Elvis spent here at the Gold Canyon movie ranch filming his twenty-ninth film.

Jon has turned his childhood interest of collecting Elvis memorabilia into a remarkable career. He is now a major collector in the U.S. with offices in Memphis, Tupelo and online. Known for his thorough research and keen eye for detail, Jon is relied upon for identification and authentication of everything Elvis.

His book Elvis: Guaranteed to Blow Your Mind, details Elvis’ November 1976 West Coast Tour with a trove of photos Jon unearthed. His Memphis store, EP Boulevard Pawn Shop, can be viewed online at www.EPBlvdPawnShop.com.

February 22 - Jeff Grunow Superstitions @ the Superstitions Delve into the mysteries of the universe and explore UFOs, UAPs, Bigfoot, Ant People and various unexplained phenomena with Jeff Grunow. This unique expedition promises to be an unforgettable adventure for all those curious about the unknown and seeking to unravel the unexplained. Jeff Grunow, a local aficionado of all things “unexplained” will share his enthusiasm and help make you a believer.

Here are seven Western stars from the 1950s who all used the Apacheland studio in Gold Canyon, Arizona for filming their shows. Left to right are Sugarfoot, Will Hutchins; Lawman, Peter Brown; Maverick, Jack Kelley; Bronco Lane, Ty Hardin; Maverick, James Garner; Colt .45, Wade Preston; Lawman, John Russell.

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Presenters February 29 - Conrad Storad Animated Reading Rattlesnake Rules Arizona’s national-award-winning children’s author Conrad Storad will deliver a delightful animated reading of his book Rattlesnake Rules.

“Animals learn rules by living; They have no books or schools; Please listen to this story; For even rattlesnakes have rules!” Conrad weaves a fascinating science and nature story about getting along from a rattlesnake’s perspective. Learn about this Arizona native and other local creatures of the desert on which Conrad based his book’s characters. Conrad says that nonfiction stories should be fun. That's exactly what he tries to do with each and every book that he writes for young readers. Conrad is the author or editor of more than 50 science and nature books for children and young adults and his books have earned him numerous state and national awards.

March 7 - Zarco Guerrero Día de los Muertos The Museum welcomes sculptor, muralist, storyteller and performance artist Zarco Guerrero for a Día de los Muertos (Day of the Dead) presentation.

Expect hilarious and moving tales, with original characters including: the poetry spouting “El Vato Poeta,” the flirtatious “La Comadre,” the clueless “Special Ed,” the wise “El Abuelito,” and other beloved roles that Zarco has created. This lecture will be an introduction to the Museum’s annual three-day event “The Magic of Mexican Artistry,” March 8-10, 2024.

March 14 - Jana Bommersbach Hellraisers and Trailblazers, the Real Women of the Wild West Ever hear of Laura Nihill? No? How about Biddy Mason? Doesn't ring a bell? You certainly know about Sacagawea! No? How is that possible?

It’s possible because history has tried to diminish or outright ignore women, and that goes double in the Old West, where it seems the men thought they did all the heavy lifting alone. Wrong. And wrong again.

Here’s the good news: you don't have to dig deep to find women who will make everyone proud. Jana has been inducted into the Arizona Women’s Hall of Fame, as well as the Arizona Music and Art Hall of Fame. She was named Arizona Journalist of the Year. Her debut nonfiction book, The Trunk Murderess Winnie Ruth Judd was chosen for Arizona’s One Book Award.

This presentation was made possible through the Arizona Humanities AZ Speaks Program.

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Presenters

March 21 - Roger Naylor Awesome Arizona: 200 Amazing Facts Arizona is rugged and gorgeous and historic and weird and funny and utterly magnificent. It’s full of surprises, not what most people expect at all. Naylor will pile up the evidence of this during his lecture at the Museum, drawing from his book Awesome Arizona: 200 Amazing Facts About the Grand Canyon State. He will relay the essence of Arizona from its wild and wooly past to its breathtaking scenery to its startling geology to its incredible diversity of cultures and terrain. Roger Naylor is a member of the Arizona Tourism Hall of Fame. His work appears most weeks in the Arizona Republic. He has also written for The Guardian, USA Today, The Week, Country Magazine, Arizona Highways, and dozens more. He is the author of several books including The Amazing Kolb Brothers of Grand Canyon, Boots & Burgers: An Arizona Handbook for Hungry Hikers, Arizona Kicks on Route 66, and Crazy for the Heat: Arizona Tales of Ghosts, Gumshoes, and Bigfoot.

March 28 - Jack San Felice Lost El Dorado of Jacob Waltz Jack’s lecture is based on more than 25 years of research and diligently searching Arizona's Superstition Mountains for the world famous Lost Dutchman Mine. His research runs contrary to the tale of the mine being in the western Superstitions near Weaver’s Needle. He relies on factual and scientific evidence to aid in the search for precious metals and the illusive mine. Jack has been an avid hiker, horseback rider, four-wheeler, and serious researcher of the Superstition Mountains and nearby areas for over 28 years. He is the author of the When Silver was King, Superstition Cowboys, Lost El Dorado of Jacob Waltz, Lore of the Superstitions, and numerous short stories. He also has lectured in central Arizona for more than 25 years on local history, including tales of the Superstition Mountains. Jack is a longtime member of the museum and lives with his wife Winnie in Mesa, Arizona.

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Putting ‘Fun’ in FUNDRAISERS

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he Superstition Mountain Museum is still going strong after 40+ years because of the tremendous support from our members, volunteers and our many visitors. All are fascinated by the beauty, legends, history and traditions that define this region. We have some exciting events planned this season that will directly benefit the Museum and its plans for the future—Please join us!

Western Cowboy Day Fundraiser Friday, Feb. 16, 2024, from 5 p.m. - 7 p.m., the Museum will host an evening of entertainment, drinks and food with a Western Cowboy flair.

Enjoy a beautiful sunset, BBQ, beer and wine and other refreshments from What’s Crackin Cafe in Mesa. $30 per person; $50 per couple. Reservations and tickets are required for this event.

Native American Arts Festival Fundraiser Friday, January 19, 2024. Join us for an evening of live music and Southwestern-style food catered by What’s Crackin Cafe, the popular Mesa establishment. Beer and wine will also be available to adults. Celebrate the Museum’s annual event that highlights the artistry of Native Americans and opens the following day. $30 per person; $50 per couple. Reservations and tickets are required for this event.

The Magic of Mexican Art Fundraiser On Friday, March 8, 2024, enjoy an evening of live music, beer and wine and Southwestern food catered by What’s Crackin Cafe. Join us for this start to The Magic of Mexican Artistry weekend. $30 per person; $50 per couple. Reservations and tickets are required for this event.

Callie Bennet Concert and Fundraiser Friday , Feb. 2, 2024. Join us for an outdoor concert during the “golden hour,” when the mountains glow with the setting sun. Awardwinning singer-songwriter Callie Bennett will be performing in the amphitheater. Callie is a sought-after artist who is also known for her Native American jewelry and fashion designs.

She is a leader in her community and aspires to inspire, encourage, and bring hope to those around her through many different mediums.

Singing before she was able to speak words, Callie was adopted at 4 months old from Seoul, South Korea and was raised both on and off the

Navajo Reservation. Not only have the Navajo/ Diné People adopted and embraced her, she has embraced the People and the heritage as her own. Tickets are $25 for general admission and please bring lawn chairs. Snacks, beer and wine will be available.

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Working 20-Stamp Ore Mill Highlighting Our Mining History

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uperstition Mountain Mining Company (SMMC) is what we call our collection of 1800s-style mining buildings and artifacts that were collected and restored by dedicated Museum volunteers. Visitors can follow the hard rock mining process from mine to bullion along a path beginning at the mine on the west end of the SMMC operation. A headframe, originally from a small mine in the Wickenburg, Arizona area is typical of the structures that were used at hard rock mines in the Superstition Mountain region.

The arastra is a truly ancient ore mill found next to the headframe. For thousands of years, arastras have been used to grind just about anything. Ore is placed on the hard surface and is crushed as a heavy stone passes over it. Gold and silver were recovered from the milled ore by amalgamation with mercury.

demonstrations at the Museum.

The assay office served prospectors that found a source of material they thought might contain gold, or had a mine and only wanted to dig the best ore. Assay is the procedure used to measure the amount of valuable metal contained in ore. The assay office, located down the street from the Cossak mill, is a replica of a typical assay office. It houses all the period tools that would have been used.

The SMMC mine office, located next to the assay office, contains photos from the early 1900s and other items from the famous Silver King mine located north of Superior, Arizona.

The Stamp Mill operates in season from November to April, check the Museum’s website for operating days and times.

The large wooden structure on the hill overlooking the museum building is a Cossak 20stamp ore mill, and was state-of-the-art mining equipment 100 years ago. A stamp mill is a large mechanical device, essentially a monster mortar and pestle. It is amazing ours has survived after being moved from Bland, New Mexico to Apache Junction; then restored; and now runs for regular 13

All Aboard For the SMMRR Model Train Exhibit

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art of the celebration scheduled for the Nov. 11 Opening Day is the reopening of the Superstition Mountain Museum Rail Road (SMMRR) our “Big Trains” Exhibit located east of the Apacheland Barn on the hillside slope. The museum’s “Big Trains” are two to four times the size of those standards of yesteryear’s hobbyists’ Lionel and HO model trains, and these larger models run on 45-mm gauge track.

The educational exhibit represents how railroads played a major role in the development of the state of Arizona, particularly the copper mining industry and the other “C”s upon which Arizona’s economy is built—cotton, cattle, climate, and citrus. The trains, buildings and all of the features are historically accurate and almost all of the buildings were handmade.

Several steam locomotives pull rolling stock (currently numbering about 40 pieces) over the

1500 feet of track that runs around the perimeter of the layout, through a tunnel, and over a trestle bridge.

The layout that the trains run through depicts Central Arizona around 1900. The centerpiece is a turn-of-the-century mining town named “Dutchman’s Gulch” comprised of approximately 40 replica buildings built to scale, including a mine, and an ore stamp mill. Outside of town, farms and ranches feature cattle, a stock pond, and cotton fields.

Both young and old train enthusiasts visiting the museum can see firsthand the historic trains and learn about the prominent role these trains took in the settlement of the West.

The large G-model trains will be run on a regular basis Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays beginning November 11. Starting in January 2024, the railroad will add Thursdays to the schedule until late Spring when it gets too hot.

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HISTORIC APACHELAND MOVIE RANCH BUILDINGS

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hile you are touring the museum grounds, don’t miss going into the Elvis Chapel and the Apacheland Barn, two buildings that survived the devastating 2004 fire and, along with the gallows situated between them, are the last remaining vestiges of the famed Apacheland Movie Ranch. Apacheland Movie Ranch opened in 1959 on Kings Ranch Road in what is now Gold Canyon, with hopes of becoming the “Western Movie Capital of the World.” Although it never did realize its initial goal, it did become a Western movie site hosting the shooting of 17 television series, 29 full-length feature films and hundreds of commercials during its history.

The Audie Murphy Apacheland Barn The large barn on site is also known as the “Audie Murphy Barn” because of a lengthy gun battle that was staged in the barn for the movie Arizona Raiders that starred Audie Murphy.

Today, the barn houses memorabilia from Apacheland and old photos, as well as several vintage horse-drawn vehicles. Both buildings were generously donated to the Superstition Mountain Historical Society by Mr. and Mrs. Ed Birmingham. They were taken apart, board by board, moved and reconstructed to building code on the museum site by volunteers.

The Elvis Chapel The “Elvis Chapel” is so named because it was featured in the Elvis Presley movie Charro, the only movie Elvis made in which he didn’t sing.

During the movie shoot, a specially-made steeple was constructed and put on the chapel so that it could be blown off during an explosion central to the movie’s plot. Nowadays, the chapel is used by the Apache Junction Cowboy Church services on Sundays and is a popular spot for people to rent for wedding ceremonies. Visitors to the chapel love to view the old movie posters and take photos with the lifelike Elvis statue at the altar.

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Superstition Mountain Museum Saturday November 11 Museum Season Opening•9:00 am - 4:00 pm

Thursday, January 25 Free Lecture with Jeff Grunow: 1997 Phoenix Light Phenomenon•2:00 pm

Saturday & Sunday, November 25-26 Holiday Boutique•Museum Store Sunday 9:00 am - 4:00 pm

Thursday, February 1 Free Lecture with Kurt Cavano: Four Peaks Amethyst Mine•2:00 pm

Saturday, December 2-3 Desert Safety & Survival Class•9:00 am - Noon Saturday & Sunday Book Sale•9:00 am - 4:00 pm

Friday, February 2 Callie Bennett Concert•5:00 pm

Saturday & Sunday, December 9-10 Holiday Boutique•9:00 am - 4:00 pm

Saturday, February 3 Desert Safety & Survival Class•9:00 am - Noon

Saturday December 16 Art of the Holidays Contest•9:00 am - 5:00 pm

Thursday, February 8 Free Lecture with Peter “Bigfoot” Busnack: Ancient Natural Remedies•2:00 pm

Thursday, January 4 Free Lecture with Teton Ken: The Lost Dutchman and His Mine•2:00 pm

Saturday, February 10 Meet the Authors•9:00 am - 4:00 pm Hats on for History•1:00 - 2:00 pm

Saturday, January 6 Desert Safety & Survival Class•9:00 am - Noon

Thursday, February 15 Free Lecture with Jon Daly: The Story of Elvis’ “Charro”•2:00 pm

Thursday, January 11 Free Lecture with Randy Helm Wild Horse Adoption Program•2:00 pm

Friday, February 16 Western Cowboy Day Fundraiser•5:00 pm

Saturday, January 13 Hats on for History•1:00 - 2:00 pm Thursday, January 18 Free Lecture with Jodie Akers•2:00 pm Saving Apache Trail Friday, January 19 Native American Arts Fundraiser•5:00 pm Saturday & Sunday, January 20-21 Native American Arts Festival•9:00 am - 4:00 pm 16

2023-2024 season schedule

Saturday, February 17 Western Cowboy Day•9:00 am - 4:00 pm

Saturday, March 16 Hats on for History•1:00 - 2:00 pm

Monday-Sunday, February 19-25 Superstitions @ the Superstitions•4:00 pm, 8:00 pm

Thursday, March 21 Free Lecture with Roger Naylor: Awesome Arizona: 200 Amazing Facts•2:00 pm

Thursday, February 22 Free Lecture with Jeff Grunow: Superstitions @ the Superstitions•2:00 pm

Saturday March 23 Master Gardener Day•9:00 am - 4:00 pm

Thursday, February 29 Free Lecture with Conrad Storad: Animated Reading “Rattlesnake Rules”•2:00 pm

Thursday, March 28 Free Lecture with Jack San Felice: Lost El Dorado of Jacob Waltz•2:00 pm

Saturday, March 2 Desert Safety & Survival Class•9:00 am - Noon

Sunday, May 12 Mother’s Day—Free Admission for Mom and Kids 9:00 am - 4:00 pm

Thursday, March 7 Free Lecture with Zarco Guerrero Día de los Muertos•2:00 pm

Saturday, May 18 Blue Star Free Admission Begins for Military Service Members/Families•9:00 am - 4:00 pm

Friday, March 8 Magic of Mexican Artistry Fundraiser•5:00 pm

Sunday, June 16 Father’s Day—Free Admission for Dad and Kids 9:00 am - 4:00 pm

Friday, Saturday & Sunday, March 8-10 The Magic of Mexican Artistry•9:00 am - 4:00 pm

* This presentation was made possible through the Arizona Humanities AZ Speaks Program.

Thursday, March 14 Free Lecture with Jana Bommersbach* The Real Women of the Wild West•2:00 pm

All Superstition Mountain Museum Programs and presentations are subject to change. For current info, visit www.SuperstitionMountainMusem.org

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Opening Day! Saturday, November 11, 2023 • 9 a.m.-4 p.m.

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he museum will mark the opening of our season with a day of activities on Nov. 11. Bring the whole family (don’t forget your dog) to enjoy the excitement and fun! The huge G-Scale Model Train Exhibit will be running and a Stamp Mill demonstration is scheduled. Teton Ken and his animal pals will be on hand to entertain both young and old. Youngsters can learn to pan for gold. Gunfights will be staged by the Superstition Mountain Renegades. Paws and Claws Care Center will also be present with adoption information. Please bring pet food, toys and cleaning supplies for donation.

There will be food and snacks for sale and some special surprises. Most of the activities are free, but there is an admission fee for entrance to the gallery.

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OLD-FASHIONED

Superstition at the Holidays Museum T

he weekends of November 25-26 and December 9-10, will be very special Red and Green Holiday Shopping Weekends at the Superstition Mountain Museum. Hours are 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. each day.

Come and see the beautiful old-fashioned decorations and get a photo with Santa and Mrs. Claus, who will be seated in the barn.

Saturday and Sunday, Nov. 2526, will feature Holiday Boutique Days with dozens of artisans on hand to exhibit their work and help shoppers find the perfect gift. A special free Stamp Mill Demo is scheduled on Saturday.

On Sunday, Nov. 26, the museum will host “Museum Store Sunday,” by participating in an international campaign that invites visitors to discover their museum’s gift shop while enjoying discounts. Our museum gift shop will be offering a 25% off discount on all types of jewelry, including Native American investment-quality

pieces that make such special gifts.

Combined with the savings in sale taxes at the non-profit museum, this adds up to significant savings for shoppers.

If you miss the first Holiday Boutique or enjoy last-minute shopping, a second Holiday Boutique will be held on Saturday, Dec. 9 and Sunday, Dec. 10. Another Free Stamp Mill Demonstration will be held on Saturday. Bring the family. The model trains will be running and the Apacheland Barn and the Chapel are loaded with decorations. Photo opportunities abound!

Bring a toy or cans of dog and cat food for our Christmas drive benefitting the Apache Junction Paws and Claws Care Center.

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SATURDAY & SUNDAY • JANUARY 20-21, 2024

NativeAmerican ARTS FESTIVAL

Arts Festival Festival Arts SS

Featuring traditional and contemporary registered Arizona Native American artisans and their work! Performances by the world-renowned YELLOW BIRD INDIAN DANCERS 20

Apache Village

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he Museum has created an authentic Apache Village exhibit outdoors that includes two wickiups and a cooking area.

The exhibit illustrates Apache culture with an emphasis on the Apache home and family. The Apache People consider the mountains sacred and the Superstitions are one of four mountains which mark their ancestral territory. This display experience is intended to help educate the community about their rich culture. To complete the exhibit, a harvest of Red Willow, Yucca, Bear Grass, and Thatch were provided by the San Carlos Apache Tribe. The Apache Village exhibit was made possible by a grant from

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SATURDAY • FEBRUARY 17, 2024 • 9:00 AM -4:00 PM

Western Cowboy Day Entertainment Movies Poetry Music Vendors Food Trucks Free for the whole family!

FEATURING TETON KEN AND THE SUPERSTITION MOUNTAIN RENEGADES

The Superstition Mountain Renegades bring the 1880s alive with skits and gunfights on the Museum grounds.

The group performs on the first Saturday of the month beginning on November 4.

Additional dates will be announced. Shows start at Noon, 1:00, 2:00 and 3:00 pm.

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FEB. 19-25, 8 P. M .-11 P. M . • FEB. 23-25, 4 P. M .-8 P. M .

PRESENTED BY TGAPHtv and SUPERSTITION MOUNTAIN MUSEUM

elve into the mysteries of the universe as we explore UFOs, UAPs, Bigfoot, Ant People and various unexplained phenomena. This unique expedition promises to be an unforgettable adventure for all those curious about the unknown and seeking to unravel the unexplained. Tickets will be available soon. Visit SuperstitionMountainMuseum.org for up-to-date information and reservations on the mothership!

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March 8-10, 2024

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D SA OW AN

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exican artisans occupy a place with some of the finest artists in the world. These individuals create unique pottery that is considered to be among the world’s best; weave beautiful tapestries utilizing traditional materials and natural dyes; meticulously carve and paint intricate wooden fantasy animals; and fashion unique silver filigree jewelry.

Guardians of age-old folk traditions passed down from generation to generation, these devoted indigenous artisans—some of them tucked away in remote villages of Mexico— often dedicate days or weeks to creating one exquisitely-crafted piece. Join us for this annual celebration. Visitors will be able to observe, and converse with the artists as they work. Finished works will be on display and for sale. Admission to the event and parking are free.

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Master Gardener Day Master Gardners are committed to enriching our lives through gardening in this challenging region. There will be presentations including care of orchids, creating a terrarium of aloe and agave succulents and container pot gardening. Also included will be presentations on xeriscaping, being fire-wise and confronting natural threats to healthy gardens in the desert. The presentations will be repeated throughout the day — it’s possible to see them all. Participants at the terrarium presentation will leave with a sample. Kids are welcome to join in activities at a special tent just for them.

Saturday, March 23 • 9:00 am – 4:00 pm niversity of Arizona, Pinal County Master Gardeners will give several presentations and host a Kids’ activity area on the Museum grounds. The Superstition Mountain

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Desert Safety & Survival Desert Safety and Survival Class Registration required in advance Cost: $40 per person (group rates available) 9 a.m. - Noon • Class dates: Sat., Oct. 7, 2023 Sat., Nov. 4, 2023 Sat., Dec. 2, 2023

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Sat., Jan. 6, 2024 Sat., Feb. 3, 2024 Sat., Mar. 2, 2024

iking or camping in the Sonoran Desert is an amazing experience, but it can turn deadly if you are not prepared. In this special class, Former Green Beret Sergeant and Survival Instructor John Jay Pelletier will teach you important tips about surviving in just about any situation. Learn what John Jay packs in his backpack. Class fee includes a special survival kit

for your backpack and a copy of John Jay’s survival booklet. Students may want to bring hats, cushions or lounge chairs and plenty of water as the class is taught in the museum amphitheater. Ask John about his new book.

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Rentals at the Museum

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isitors to the museum often inquire whether our museum facilities are available for rental to groups or individuals who are hosting special events.

The answer is yes, and we are happy to invite you to explore the opportunities to host your wedding, reception, corporate gathering, family event or memorial service in the midst of the beautiful Sonoran Desert beneath the breathtaking splendor of the Superstition Mountains.

Venues: The Amphitheater is a large, level area, decoratively lit, with a lectern, PA system and electricity often used for weddings and small receptions, lectures, classes and small parties.

The Elvis Chapel, acquired from the famous Apacheland Movie Ranch, offers the perfect setting for weddings parties of up to 75 guests.

The nave holds 12 rows of pews, each seating 68 guests comfortably. The altar area is adequate for a small wedding party, the officiant, and, of course, the celebrants. There is a bridal room, bathroom, and groom's room at the back of the chapel building.

The Museum Grounds cover 14 acres of theme buildings, Apacheland Movie Set memorabilia, mining machinery (including a century-old 20-stamp ore mill), walking trails, and gorgeous views of the Superstition Mountains.

The Audie Murphy Barn, also acquired from Apacheland, is available as a venue for professional and commercial photography only. Visitors are welcome to take photographs but any photos used for publication must be approved by museum management and there is a fee for professional use.

The Burial Repository is located at the highest point on the property and in full view of the Superstition Mountain. It offers a perfect resting place for those who have a special love of the Superstition region. There is no fee for the use of the repository, but donations are accepted.

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Summers at the Museum

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ust because it’s hot, it doesn’t mean that things close down at the museum. We are open year ’round and although the pace slows down in the summer, there are still activities going on.

Free Admission for Moms, Dads and Kids What better way to spend Mother’s Day (May 12, 2024) or Father’s Day (June 16, 2024) than going on an excursion with the family to the Superstition Mountain Museum, particularly when the cost is so reasonable? As an annual tradition, the museum offers free admission to the museum exhibit gallery to all moms on Mother’s Day and to dads on Father’s Day. Children under 10 get in free with an adult, so practically the whole family can view the gallery exhibits for free. Get some classic family photos and make some priceless family memories.

Free Blue Star Admission to Military Families Each summer, there is free admission to military families. Superstition Mountain Museum is proud to be a Blue Star Memorial Museum, and as such, joins other museums in offering free admission to active duty military personnel and their spouses and children each summer.

This gesture is a “thank you” to our military personnel and their families for their service and sacrifice. It also affords military families a way to spend quality time together without worrying about the budget.

The free admission begins on Armed Forces Day (May 18, 2024) and lasts through Labor Day. Visit the National Endowment of the Arts (NEA) website for information and a list of other museums who participate each summer. The museums cover a broad range of art, history, science and cultural topics.

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Thank You Volunteers

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his museum could not exist without the generous efforts of more than 200 volunteers who keep it going day in and day out, with energy, humor, and a deep love for this area and its history.

Everyone associated with the museum realizes that without the countless hours of labor donated by our loyal museum volunteers, the museum could not survive, particularly with the number of activities and visitors increasing every year. The scope of the efforts of our volunteers is unbelievably wide and incredibly diverse. And these efforts of each and every volunteer are appreciated beyond measure.

The Superstition Mountain Museum is always actively recruiting volunteers. Both full time residents of the community and winter volunteers are encouraged to see how much fun it is to join an enthusiastic, friendly group of people who love history and the area they live in. Volunteers are only asked to work a minimum of four hours per week. We try our best to accommodate your schedule. Positions

available include gift shop or general store cashier; docent in the Museum Gallery, Elvis Chapel, and Apacheland Movie Ranch Barn; or engage with visitors in the 1800s-era western town. Dressing up in period clothing is encouraged, but not required.

The Museum also welcomes train enthusiasts!

Volunteers assist with the amazing G-scale Model Train Exhibit that depicts the history of railroads in Arizona.

Maybe you are interested in the area’s rich mining history. You can help operate the 20Stamp Ore Mill.

Superstition Mountain Museum also needs knowledgeable greeters who welcome visitors and answer all kinds of questions. Grounds Crew volunteers are needed to help with setting up small tents and tables for Special Events and Artisan/Craft Shows.

To become a volunteer, please fill out an application found at our website or use your smart phone to access the application below:

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Museum Gift Shop

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e encourage you to visit and browse our Gift Shop located in the main museum building. You will find a wide array of distinctive and unique items ranging from exclusive custom-made souvenirs to handmade Native American art, including exquisite “investment-quality” Native American jewelry and beautiful handmade pottery.

Rockhounds will find rock and mineral samples and custom jewelry made from amethysts mined from Arizona’s only amethyst mine.

In addition, featured in our Gift Shop is one of the finest selection of books in the Valley on a wide variety of Western, Southwest and local historical topics, including, of course, books on the Superstition Mountains and Jacob Waltz and the Lost Dutchman Mine. If hiking is your

interest, the shop also carries trail maps of the Superstition Wilderness Area and other hiking locales. Guides to Arizona flora and fauna abound, as well as rock hounding and bird identifiers. Cookbook collectors will love our wide selection of Western, Southwestern and local cookbooks.

Remember, when purchasing any item from our museum gift shop, we are a nonprofit so we don’t charge sales tax. Proceeds from the Gift Shop sales support the Superstition Mountain Museum. * Tip: Save 10% by purchasing a Museum Membership which also allows you other privileges including free museum admission and more.

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GROUP TOURS WELCOME FOR OR ADULT GROUPS, EMAIL: smhs.groups@gmail.com FOR SCHOOL OR OTHER YOUTH GROUPS EMAIL: smhs.schoolgroups@gmail.com

IN-SEASON October through April 7 days-a-week 9 a.m.– 4 p.m.*

SUMMER HOURS May through September 7 days-a-week 9 a.m.– 3 p.m.*

CLOSED Thanksgiving, Christmas, New Years Day and Easter *Subject to change

4087 East Apache Trail (SR 88) • Apache Junction, AZ. 85119

(480) 983-4888 • www.SuperstitionMountainMuseum.org All Superstition Mountain Museum programs and presentations are subject to change.

Visit our website for the latest information.