The
Tombstone Courthouse was built in 1882 after
Cochise County split from
Pima County in 1881, and Tombstone (population 8-10,000) was chosen as the county seat.
The building served as the County Courthouse until 1929; the county seat was then moved to Bisbee, where it remains today. Some of the most notorious criminal cases of Arizona's territorial period were tried in the historic courthouse building. After the last county office left the courthouse in 1931, the courthouse remained empty until it was placed in the state park system as a historical site in 1959.
Subsequently restored and re-opened as a State Historic Park, Cochise County history involving ranching, mining, and gambling is on display. There is also interpretation by park staff.
Located off US Route 80; day-use only facilities include restrooms, a picnic area, and handicapped access is provided. Open daily, except Christmas Day; Visitor Center open 8am-5pm.