The Stoneman Military Road in Arizona

The remains of the Stoneman road run from lower right to upper left in photo.

The Stoneman Military Road is an important part of Arizona history. I’ve done a blog and column in the Scottsdale Republic about the road within the last year, so you may have at least some remembrance of this important lifeline that ran between Fort McDowell near Fountain Hills and Fort Whipple in Prescott during the era of 1870 until 1890.

In the Carefree, Cave Creek, and north Scottsdale area, there are still a few traces of the old, long ago abandoned trail that at one time was a vital supply line. Between Windmill Road and Stagecoach Pass, you can walk the ruts of the old road over to Cave Creek Road. That’s fascinating to me since I love the history of this area.

I bring this up because recently the Coalition of Pinnacle Peak helped the residents of the area derail a California developer who wanted to re-zone a 20 acre area at Windmill Road and Stagecoach Pass. The land was designated for four 5 acre lots which the developer wanted to change to 13 lots. After his plans were refused, he decide to stay with the original zoning of one home per 5 acres.

Because of COPP and local residents, this area will retain the rural lifestyle that is preferred. Also, the area where the Stoneman Military Road once ran in the 19th century, will be less disturbed and another out of state developer who tried to come to town and make a quick buck, will be rebuffed.

COPP reiterates that if you live in Scottsdale, you have your choice of a variety of lifestyles. There are golf communities, urban living downtown, areas with great views, and large horse properties. Saving the few 5 acre zoned areas is important to the northern area of town. And, for me, saving any trace of the Stoneman Road is vital to the remembrance of that important 19th century route to Prescott.