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Beyond Tubac's Tourist Trails Lies a Rich History
By Stacey Gregory, Mauro Trejo, and Justin Somerset
Visitors come from around the globe to shop at the art galleries and dine at its restaurants, yet Tubac’s fascinating heritage dates back centuries, offering much more of the borderlands to explore.
How It All Began
The National Park Service recounts Tubac’s beginning in 1691 when Jesuit Father Eusebio Francisco Kino founded Mission San Cayetano de Tumacácori, Arizona’s first mission. As part of Spain’s broader mission system, the settlement aimed to establish a self-sufficient agricultural community, convert Indigenous people to Catholicism, and support Spain’s colonial endeavors. Originally situated on the east bank of the Santa Cruz River, the mission relocated to its current site on the west bank after the 1751 Pima Revolt, adopting the name San José de Tumacácori.
By 1757, a small adobe church marked the center of the growing community. The Franciscan order took over after the Jesuits' expulsion in 1767, and by 1800, construction began on a larger church which, though never fully completed, served the community into the 1820s. By 1848, this mission was abandoned, and its residents had relocated to Misiòn San Xavier del Bac near Tucson, Arizona.
San Jose de Tumacácori Missiòn, formely known as San Cayetano de Tumacácori, Arizona's first mission.
The Spanish government established The Royal Presidio San Ignacio de Tubac in 1752 to protect the mission and its inhabitants from Apaches and Seris and to control the O’odham while further exploring the Southwest. The stone outlines of the foundations of the once towering walls of the military outpost serve as a testament to the presidio's historical location and significance.
After Mexico gained independence from Spain in 1821, Tubac once again became a thriving community. It served as a trading post and a center for agriculture, with cattle ranching and farming becoming important economic activities. However, the town faced challenges, including Apache raids and the decline of the Spanish mission system.
Interior nave of San Jose de Tumacácori Misiòn ruins, circa 1907,Tubac Presidio State Historic Park.
Excavated foundation sections of the original Presidio San Ignacio de Tubac, located in Tubac Presidio State Historic Park.
The United States acquired Tubac and the surrounding territory as part of the Gadsden Purchase in 1853. The town's fortunes fluctuated during the American Civil War, but it eventually recovered and became a popular destination for travelers and settlers. The railroad's arrival in the late 19th century boosted Tubac's economy, connecting it to larger markets and attracting new residents.
The outlines of the Royal Presidio San Ignacio de Tubac, which was originally built in 1752.
Experience Tubac's Past Today
In the 20th century, Tubac experienced a resurgence as a cultural and historical center. Efforts to preserve the town's heritage led to creating these special places you’ll want to see for yourself.
Tubac Presidio State Historic Park
Established as Arizona’s first state park in 1958, the Tubac Presidio State Historic Park preserves the remnants of the historic Royal Spanish presidio, San Ignacio de Tubac, founded in 1752. You can learn about this history, spanning from Spanish colonization and Mexican rule to the westward expansion of the United States, by visiting its underground ruins and educational exhibits on four governments that have ruled the area, making it an invaluable resource for understanding the cultural and historical development of Arizona.
Misiòn San José de Tumacácori & Tumacácori National Historical Park
Construction of this grand Misiòn San José de Tumacácori church began around 1800 under the direction of Franciscan missionaries, aiming to match the baroque splendor of nearby Misión San Xavier del Bac (located today on the Tohono O'odham Nation).
Although progress stalled due to financial constraints, work resumed in 1821 and by 1822, the Misión San José de Tumacácori was nearly complete. Today, the adobe walls, some as thick as nine feet, still stand, showcasing the craftsmanship of the Spanish and Indigenous laborers. You can explore the ruins, including the sacristy, baptistery, and the remains of the priest’s residence and community area known as El Convento.
Tumacácori National Historical Park preserves the mission and surrounding structures, such as the lime kiln, cemetery, and traditional O’odham house. The park offers guided tours, a museum, and special events like La Fiesta de Tumacácori, which are held every December to celebrate the diverse cultures of the Santa Cruz Valley. Other not-to-miss attractions include the historic mission garden and the Juan Bautista de Anza National Historic Trail, which passes through the park and offers scenic opportunities for walking, birdwatching, and more.
Juan Bautista de Anza National Historic Trail
Cemetery at Tumacácori National Historical Park
As you plan your visit to Tubac, take the time to appreciate its rich history and the contributions of the people who have called this special place home. Whether you're interested in exploring historic ruins, shopping for handcrafted goods, or simply enjoying the peaceful ambiance, Tubac offers something for everyone.
Take a break at Tubac Jack's! Learn more HERE!