Schieffelin Monument
Monument to Tombstone's founder, Ed Schieffelin, marking his final resting place and the origin of the silver boom.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Avoid heat & see wildlife
Schieffelin Monument
Best Time
Avoid heat & see wildlife
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Monument to Tombstone's founder, Ed Schieffelin, marking his final resting place and the origin of the silver boom.
"A neat, not too far off the beaten path stop that's much bigger than it looks in pictures."
🚗 Easy Access by Car
Take Allen Street 2 miles west of town; a dirt road leads to the monument. Family sedans can manage.
🐍 Watch for Wildlife
Rattlesnakes and their babies have been spotted near the monument. Back up slowly if encountered.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Ed Schieffelin Monument
2 miles west of Tombstone on Allen Street
A towering tribute to the prospector who founded Tombstone, marking his final resting place.
Historical Significance
Learn about the man who braved perils to establish Tombstone and spark a silver boom.
Desert Wildlife Spotting
Keep an eye out for desert tortoises and other native creatures in the surrounding landscape.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Visit the Founder's Final Resting Place
Respect the Desert Environment
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Easy Access by Car
Take Allen Street 2 miles west of town; a dirt road leads to the monument. Family sedans can manage.
🐍 Watch for Wildlife
Rattlesnakes and their babies have been spotted near the monument. Back up slowly if encountered.
⚠️ Be Mindful of Glass
The ground around the monument can be covered in broken beer bottles. Wear sturdy shoes.
📸 Capture the Vista
Enjoy the scenic views near the monument, a popular spot for photographers.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Easy Access by Car
Take Allen Street 2 miles west of town; a dirt road leads to the monument. Family sedans can manage.
🐍 Watch for Wildlife
Rattlesnakes and their babies have been spotted near the monument. Back up slowly if encountered.
⚠️ Be Mindful of Glass
The ground around the monument can be covered in broken beer bottles. Wear sturdy shoes.
📸 Capture the Vista
Enjoy the scenic views near the monument, a popular spot for photographers.
⛏️ Imagine the Past
Picture Ed Schieffelin in his miner's clothes, lamp, and pickaxe, as per his will.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors find the Ed Schieffelin Monument to be a significant and impressive historical landmark, offering a direct connection to the founder of Tombstone. While the monument itself is well-regarded, some reviewers note the presence of broken glass on the ground and the potential for encountering wildlife like rattlesnakes, advising caution. Despite these minor drawbacks, it's considered a worthwhile and easily accessible stop for history enthusiasts.
"Tombstone is very touristy but if you want to see something important that most will never take the time to see then visit the Edward Schieffelin Monument. Ed founded Tombstone. The monument is easy to get to, just take Allen Street 2 miles west of town. You can't miss the big monument on the north side of the road. It's a dirt road but easily done with the family sedan. Very little parking but it's unlikely that anyone else will be there."
Howard Rains
"You have total access to all sides of the monument. However, the day we were there, I found on the trail freshly hatched rattlesnake eggs and many slithering drag tracks in the sand and dirt. As we were heading back to the car, I heard hissing and rattling. In the bush to our right was the mother rattlesnake and the babies. I told my friend to back up slowly since she was very close to the bush. She's hard of hearing and never heard the snakes 🐍. We got back to the car safely, and as we backed out, you could see the family of rattlesnakes."
Wilma Swartz
"Definitely a neat, not too far off the beaten path stop. Make sure you also check out monument ranch nearby to the site of Ed's original home."
DeLane Patterson
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The monument is located approximately 2 miles west of Tombstone on Allen Street. A dirt road leads to the site, which is generally manageable for most vehicles, including family sedans.
There is very little parking available at the monument, but it's unlikely to be crowded, so finding a spot is usually not an issue.
Yes, the area around the monument is suitable for mountain biking and hiking. Some visitors have spotted desert tortoises on these trails.
The road leading to the monument is a dirt road. While usually manageable, conditions can vary.
Driving is the most common and convenient way to reach the monument. The drive itself offers scenic desert views.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, there are no tickets or admission fees required to visit the Ed Schieffelin Monument. It is an open-access historical site.
The monument is accessible at any time, as it is an outdoor historical marker. However, visiting during daylight hours is recommended for safety and visibility.
There is no entrance fee to visit the Ed Schieffelin Monument. It's a free historical landmark.
While technically accessible, visiting at night is not recommended due to potential wildlife and the lack of lighting.
The monument is a standalone historical marker, though it is located near areas like the Tombstone Monument Ranch.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can view the large monument, read the plaque detailing Ed Schieffelin's achievements, and imagine the history of Tombstone's founding.
The monument is outdoors and the ground can be uneven. Access may be challenging for those with mobility issues.
The monument is described as much bigger than it looks in pictures, reaching about 25 feet in height.
There are no facilities such as restrooms or visitor centers at the monument itself.
The terrain is desert, with sand and dirt. Visitors should be aware of potential hazards like broken glass and wildlife.
📸 📸 Photography
Early mornings and late afternoons offer the best light for photography, creating a scenic desert vista.
You can photograph the monument itself, the surrounding desert landscape, and potentially local wildlife like desert tortoises.
There are no specific restrictions on photography at the monument. However, be respectful of the historical site and any wildlife.
Shots capturing the monument against the desert backdrop, especially during sunrise or sunset, are popular.
Drone regulations can vary. It's advisable to check local FAA guidelines and any specific rules for the area before flying a drone.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
However, parents should be extra vigilant due to the presence of rattlesnakes and broken glass on the ground. Keep children close, especially when exploring the immediate vicinity of the monument. Sturdy shoes are a must for everyone. Consider visiting in the cooler parts of the day to make the experience more comfortable for younger ones.
🚗 Road Trippers & Day-Trippers
It offers a tangible connection to the history that makes Tombstone famous, beyond the more tourist-centric attractions. The drive west on Allen Street provides a scenic transition into the desert landscape, and the monument itself is a striking landmark.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Legacy of Ed Schieffelin
The monument itself is a testament to his impact. Standing tall, it marks his final resting place, fulfilling his wish to be buried in Tombstone. The plaque at the site details his bravery in facing Apache attacks and unscrupulous individuals to stake his claim and build his fortune. It's a significant landmark for anyone interested in the Wild West and the history of mining towns.
Visitors often reflect on the sheer grit and determination required to establish such a town in that era. The monument serves as a tangible link to that pioneering spirit, reminding us of the individuals who shaped the American West.
Navigating the Desert Environment
Wildlife is a common sight in this environment. Desert tortoises are often spotted ambling along trails, and it's important to observe them from a distance without disturbing them.
However, visitors have also encountered rattlesnakes, including mothers with babies, near the monument. If you see a snake, it's best to back up slowly and give it plenty of space. Respecting the desert ecosystem is key to a safe and enjoyable visit. Stick to established paths where possible and avoid leaving any trace of your visit behind. The natural beauty of the area is a significant part of the experience.
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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit