Explore Historic Erie Street Lowell Ghost Town Bisbee, AZ

Erie Street is the only remaining part of the mining town of Lowell in Arizona. In 1899, the Lowell & Arizona Copper Mining and Smelting Company was formed, which led to the establishment of Lowell in 1908. Bisbee incorporated Lowell, Arizona. By 1910, nearly half of Bisbee’s population had moved to Lowell and nearby Warren. At that time, Lowell had a street car station on the Warren-Bisbee Electric Railway. During that period, the Bisbee region held the distinction of being the world’s most extensive copper-producing district.

Consumed by the Lavender Pit 

Lowell experienced significant growth until the 1950s, when the Phelps Dodge Corp Copper Mine Lavender Pit was opened, consuming a substantial portion of the town. The city, which earlier boasted schools, stores, a hospital, a movie theater, and family homes, was gone for the small section of Erie Street that remained. 

Lowell Americana Project

A quarter-mile stretch of Erie Street has been preserved to capture the essence of a bygone era. Collaborative efforts between business owners, residents, and enthusiasts have resulted in the creation of the unique open-air museum, “Lowell Americana Project, showcasing various restored buildings, including a Gulf Gas Station, an old movie theater, a pool hall, a Harley Davidson repair shop, a five-and-dime store, an old Greyhound terminal, Ford Dealership, and an auto repair shop.

Original Bisbee Breakfast Club 

Parked along Erie Street, visitors can view old trucks and cars, motorcycles, two Greyhound cruiser buses, a police car, and gas pumps. The only business remaining in Lowell is the original Bisbee Breakfast Club, located in the historic Rexall pharmacy building. The Breakfast Club is open seven days a week from 7 am to 3 pm. Visit their website for more information.

Where is Erie Street in Bisbee, Arizona?

If you ever find yourself in Bisbee, Arizona, visit Lowell, Arizona. It’s a must-see destination for history enthusiasts. Situated in southeastern Arizona, Bisbee is located 92 miles southeast of Tucson, 23 miles from Tombstone, and just 11 miles from the Mexican border. One thing to remember is that many of the stores in Bisbee are only open from Thursday to Sunday, so plan your visit accordingly.

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