Salome, Arizona: A History Of A Small Town

The sexual assault lawyers in Salome, Arizona have sponsored this article on the history of the small town. We hope that visitors and residents alike learn something about the area.

A Brief History of Salome

Salome is a small town in La Paz County, in southwestern Arizona. It wasn't until 1904 that the town was established. While it is an unincorporated town, it is a census-designated place. As of the 2010 census, there were 1,530 residents, down from the 2000 census where there were 1,690 people.

The town was founded by three people Dick Wick Hall, Ernest Hall, and Charles Pratt. Pratt named the town after his wife, Grace Salome Pratt. It is said that the name came about because she walked 'through hot sand without shoes...causing her to dance around in pain.'  Dick Wick Hall was a journalist who had become famous for his wit and humor and established the town with his brother and friend.

The Santa Fe railroad was established and connected to Salome which allowed it to start growing. There was originally a post office, inn, and a few other small buildings to serve the few residents. Dick Wick Hall would end up creating the Salome Sun, combining news humor and philosophy on a double-sided sheet of paper for residents to enjoy.

The local high school and town mascot would become a frog, the high school slogan is 'home of the fighting frogs,' after a character Hall established who was a bullfrog with a canteen on his back who never learned to swim.

Things to See

Salome may be a small town but there is still plenty to see in the area. There is the Salome Hotel which is a historic building that most recently housed the now-closed, Kofa Cafe. There are quite a few other historic sites which include:

• Dick Wick Hall's Grave
• Dick Wick Hall House Ruins
• 'Where She Danced' building
•  Westward motel
• Little Roadside Chapel
• Abandoned Stage Stop
• Justice Court

There is also a 9/11 Memorial in Salome that houses a piece of steel from the World Trade Towers. The memorial is dedicated to the firefighters and people lost during the falling of the buildings. It features an image of firefighters raising the flag at ground zero and is designed to stand against weather elements. Local art teacher, Lowell Swenseid, from Salome High School, designed and sculpted the monument.

Ready to learn more? Discover the history of another small Arizona town, Gila Bend.

Our Local Office

If you or a loved one has been sexually assaulted, it is important to speak with an attorney to determine your legal options. It may be possible to sue for compensation and damages. An experienced attorney will be able to help you understand your next steps. Call today for a free consultation with our local attorneys.