Bowie Arizona
Surrounded by Mount Graham, the Pelonchillo Range, the Dos Cabeza Range and the Chiricahua Mountains, Bowie is a community of comfortable homes, churches, schools and recreational facilities. Referred to as the “Garden in the Sun”, it sits at an elevation of 3,700 feet and enjoyed a typical desert climate.
When he learned that the Southern Pacific Railroad was heading in his direction, Tavis donated some of his land to the railroad resulting in the town’s growth. Originally called Bean, the town was later renamed to be Bowie, after its namesake, Fort Bowie. This name became official in 1908. Still unincorporated, Bowie is made up mostly of retirees.
Grapes, pecans, pistachios and numerous orchards all contribute to the local economy.
Visitors can see the ruins of Fort Bowie at the Fort Bowie National Historic Site, just a short drive from town. A one and a half mile hike will bring tourists to the Station/Museum which focuses on the Indian Wars fought from 1862 to 1886. Many campgrounds and nearly 300 miles of hiking trails cover this vast wilderness.
