The big bonanza in this year’s tour may come as a pleasant surprise to many. For the first time in over 30 years the Open Pit Mine in Jerome will be included in the Home and Historic Building Tour, being held Saturday, May 20 and Sunday, May 21. According to Christine Barag, Home Tour Director, the Open Pit Mine, located on private property owned by Phelps Dodge and closed to the public, was last included on the Tour in 1972. “People will be able to walk up to and look over the edge of the pit.” Barag explained, adding that Phelps Dodge has been extremely helpful in insuring an informative and interesting experience. An overlook has been prepared, accommodations have been made to facilitate photographs, and mining personnel will be on hand to answer questions.This year’s tour will also include a stop at the Kingdon House, once the lavish home of George Kingdon, superintendent of the Little Daisy Mine. Extensive renovations have been made by the owner, local artist, Diane Geoghan, including restoration of the ballroom. The ballroom was one of several additions to the home supervised by Mrs. Kingdon, who “liked to entertain.” Other homes included on the tour are the Pecharich House, currently the Cottage Inn, a quaint bed and breakfast, and the Kelly House known now as Gallery 527. The tour will conclude at the Lawrence Memorial Hall -- owned and operated by the Jerome Historical Society as “Spook Hall” -- where refreshments will be served.
The self-paced tour begins on Main Street; shuttles will run continuously from 9 AM to 4 PM. The last tour daily will be at 3 PM. Cost of admission is $12 for adults; $6 for children 12 years and under. Because of uneven surfaces and stairs, the tour is not wheelchair accessible and strollers cannot be accommodated. Comfortable shoes are strongly recommended. Admission to the Jerome State Historic Park will be waived with a Home Tour Ticket. For more information, contact Christine Barag at 928-634-5477.
