Courtland
Concrete Bones in the Desert
State: Arizona
County: Cochise County
Founded: 1909
Abandoned: 1942
Peak Population: 2,000
Courtland was unusual for Arizona - it was built of concrete and masonry instead of wood. This means ruins survived where wooden towns vanished. The concrete jail, with its barred windows, is the most photographed structure.
Copper Town
Courtland boomed on copper in the 1910s. The town was substantial - concrete buildings, a hospital, schools, and multiple saloons.
Concrete Heritage
Because builders used concrete, the ruins are substantial. The jail, foundations, and walls tell the story of a town built to last that didn't.
Timeline
- 1909 - Founded Copper mining began
- 1910s - Peak 2,000 residents
- 1942 - Abandoned Mine closed for good
Plan Your Visit
Best Time: Fall through spring
Difficulty: Easy
Time Needed: 1 hour
Quick Facts
- Concrete jail still stands
- Unusual construction for Arizona
- Near other ghost towns Pearce and Gleeson
Location
Address: Near Pearce, Arizona
Coordinates: 31.7831, -109.9011