Introduction to Fort Mohave, AZ
Originally named Camp Colorado, Fort Mohave, AZ, is one of the most complimented neighborhoods in the Grand Canyon State. This highly desirable community is nestled along the scenic Colorado River in Arizona and features beautiful homes that are exceptional for their price.
Whether you’re interested in buying a home in Fort Mohave or planning to visit the area for a vacation, discovering its rich history would give you a greater appreciation of this picturesque community.
Read on to learn more about the evolution of one of the historic Arizona forts that have now developed into one of the best communities to live in the region.
Early European Encounters and Exploration
Spanish explorer Melchor Díaz was the first known European to visit the area. In 1540, he documented his travels in what is now northwestern Mohave County, recounting meeting a large population of natives who referred to themselves as the Pipa Aha Macav, meaning “People by the River.”
When the Spaniards encountered them along the Colorado River southwest of the Grand Canyon, the Mojaves had established villages and were prosperous farmers. They had also developed trade routes that stretched to the Pacific Ocean.
“Mojave” was the name the Spaniards gave to the Pipa Ava Macav, from “Aha Macav.”
Pre-Colonial Native American Presence
When American miners and settlers entered this area over 100 years later, they called these inhabitants the “Mohave” Indians, introducing a common misspelling.
When referring to Fort Mohave, most people use the spelling “Mohave”, while the tribe retains the traditional Spanish spelling “Mojave.”
The Establishment of Fort Mohave (1859)
When the American frontier was opened, the Pipe Aha Macav resisted the military wagon trains and American migrants who crossed the Colorado River on the California Trail.
On April 19, 1859, as the inhabitants defended their rugged homeland, Major L.A. Armistead established Fort Mojave on the east bank of the Colorado River to protect the travelers and subdue the Mohave Indians.
Decline and Closure of the Fort
In May 1861, Brigadier General Edwin V. Sumner ordered the fort buildings to be burned down to prevent them from falling into Confederate hands.
However, in May 1863, the fort was rebuilt and re-garrisoned to protect travelers again and cultivate friendly relations with the Indians.
On September 29, 1890, the War Department turned the fort over to the Bureau of Indian Affairs. All troops were evacuated to other posts.
Transition to a School for Native Americans
In 1891, Fort Mohave closed. In the old fort buildings, a military-style boarding school was established, educating various Indian tribe members from Arizona, Nevada, and New Mexico.
The school was intended to eradicate native language and culture. A compulsory education law was passed, and truant children were forcibly returned to school. They were whipped and locked in an attic for days and were only given water and a slice of bread for meals.
The school continued until 1935.
Visiting Historical Sites in Fort Mohave
Today, ruins of the fort and old boarding school can be seen from the bluff overlooking the Colorado River just south of present-day Bullhead City. It is now part of the Fort Mojave Indian Reservation.
The stretch of the Mojave Desert along the Colorado River is the only site in North America where ancient ground drawings can still be seen.
Overlooking the river valley, south of Fort Mojave and east of the Avi Casino, you’ll find the Fort Mojave Twins – a pair of geoglyphs representing large human figures that possibly date back to 900 BCE. The twins are said to signify good and evil.
Continue south to discover more of this ancient art collection, including The Parker Snake and The Quartzite Fisherman Intaglios.
Across the Arizona-California border, drive 15 miles north of Blythe to see the Blythe Intaglios – colossal figures scraped into the desert floor by the ancestors of the Mojave and Quechan tribes.
Modern Fort Mohave: A Thriving Community
Today, Fort Mohave is known as a beautiful area with peaceful, thriving neighborhoods.
Fort Mohave is located in western Mohave County along Arizona State Route 95. It is bordered to the north by Bullhead City, to the west by the Fort Mojave Indian Reservation, and to the south by unincorporated Mesquite Creek.
Many neighborhoods in Fort Mohave are built on beautiful man-made lakes, well-maintained golf courses, and mesas with breathtaking mountain views. The newest golf course in the area is Los Lagos Golf Club, a Ted Robinson, Sr. Signature Golf Course.
Conclusion
Fort Mohave boasts a rich past and a promising present. The beautiful communities and historical attractions are a testament to how far this place and its people have evolved over the years.
If you want to explore Fort Mohave, AZ, please don’t hesitate to give me a call at 714-514-1176 or send me an email at Lee@RiverRatsRealty.com if you’d like to schedule an appointment.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why was Fort Mohave established?
Fort Mohave was established as a military base to protect emigrants crossing Northern Arizona and the Mojave Desert on their way to California. It was also used to fight against the Mohave people during the Mohave War, which lasted from 1858 to 1859.
What role did Native Americans play in the history of Fort Mohave?
Native Americans called the Pipa Aha Macav, meaning “People by the River,” were the original inhabitants of Fort Mohave. They established villages and were prosperous farmers even before the Spanish arrived in the area.
What is the significance of Fort Mohave today?
Aside from its rich history, Fort Mohave today is home to some of the most beautiful neighborhoods in Arizona that offer affordable homes.
Can visitors still see remnants of the original fort?
Yes, ruins of the fort and old boarding school can still be seen from the bluff overlooking the Colorado River just south of present-day Bullhead City.
